Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)  February 21st marks Mardi Gras this year, but those who embrace the Carnival season celebrate from mid-January until midnight on the “Fat Tuesday” prior to Ash Wednesday… the dawn of Lent.

For me, I fell in love with New Orleans through her food. From spicy gumbo to addictive sweet beignets, there was so much to enjoy!

Mardi Gras is a great excuse to enjoy a Southern-style dinner, with N’awlins-inspired cuisine on the plate and a breezy cocktail in the glass.  Here are some recipes to help you bring a touch of New Orleans to your table!

• Cocktails: Tom Smith, of USQ Wines & Spirits, developed these 2 great Mardi Gras cocktails: the Elmer T Smash and the Clement Hurricane.

 

• Appetizer: A favorite Mardi Gras appetizer is crab cakes. They’re easy to make beforehand and using fresh crabmeat makes them extra delicious. Check out these recipes: Pan-Fried Crab Cakes, Devilled Crab Cakes, and Jumbo Crab Cakes with Spicy Mayonnaise

 

• Entrees: Hearty and comforting Shrimp Gumbo is a must for any Mardi Gras celebration!

 

• Sides: Dirty Bayou Rice is a perfect side to complement your gumbo. And of course, some Wilted Greens is great to ensure you have some veggies on your plate!

 

• Dessert: To end your meal, enjoy this Cappuccino Semifreddo with Cinnamon-Sugar Doughnuts “Coffee and Donuts” recipe by Thomas Keller.
  

For more Mardi Gras recipes, click here and for some great Mardi Gras party inspiration, check out our Pinterest board here.

How do you celebrate Mardi Gras? Let us know on the FreshDirect Facebook page or via Twitter (@FreshDirect)