Citrus Challenge

T enjoys occasionally challenging me with a smattering of ingredients to see what I can make of them.  This weekend he brought home cactus paddles (a.k.a. prickly pears), blueberries and cream, and an assortment of citrus.

The cactus paddles were easy. After removing their weird little thistle eyes I split them, stuffed their innards with cheese, then dredged them in egg and flour.  Frying them in oil long enough to remove their slimy texture was enough to melt the cheese and form a nice crunchy batter-like crust.  They were terrific alongside a big farmers market salad of greens and tomatillos.  The blueberries were terrific in a quick crisp made with lots of butter, oatmeal, brown sugar, whole wheat flour, and spices. We topped the crisp with whipped cream and had a nice dessert.

The citrus became the stash's stunner recipe.  I am not a lover of bottled Margarita mix, and combining the different citrus juices then adding a bit of simple syrup made a great quick substitute for those nights when straight lime juice, orange liqueur, and tequila is a bit heavy on the alcohol and we want something to sip while watching the setting sun.

A Large Marge Margarita is also enjoyable while watching Pee Wee's Big Adventure (or at least the scenes with Large Marge and Pee Wee's tequila bar dance).  Or just occasionally shout "Tequila" while wearing your favorite pair of white elevator shoes.

Large Marge Mix
Makes about 1 3/4 cups

1/2 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
Juice from 2 limes, 2 oranges, 1 lemon, 1/2 grapefruit

In small sauce pan, bring water and sugar to boil and simmer until sugar is dissolved. Add to citrus juices; chill.

Drink mix alone, or add to sparkling water. For a Large Marge Margarita, use 2 parts mix to 2 parts good tequila, and 1 part Cointreau or very good triple sec over lots of ice.