Recipes for Your Kentucky Derby Party: Benedictine, Kentucky Derby Pie, and Limoncello Mint Lemonade

The Rich History of the Kentucky Derby

Kentucky horse racing dates back to 1783, with races held on Kentucky streets and private farm tracks. Due to safety concerns, the first official racetrack was built in Lexington in 1789. Fast forward to 1872, Col. M. Lewis Clark, inspired by his travels in England and France, founded the Louisville Jockey Club to promote Kentucky's breeding industry. The track, now known as Churchill Downs, opened on May 17, 1875, with over 10,000 spectators. The first Kentucky Derby was won by a three-year-old chestnut colt named Aristides.

Churchill Downs has since become the most renowned horse racing venue in the United States, thanks to numerous improvements, including the iconic spires added to the main building. This year, the 134th running of the Kentucky Derby will take place on May 3, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a Kentucky Derby party featuring these favorite recipes.

Appetizer: Warm Vidalia Onion Dip

This warm dip, made with the sweetest onions, is a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite crackers, and be prepared to share the recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sweet onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• Assorted crackers

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, onion, Parmesan cheese, and garlic salt.
3. Stir in Swiss cheese and spoon the mixture into a shallow baking dish.
4. Bake for 40 minutes or until the dip is bubbly.
5. Serve warm with crackers.

Main Course: Benedictine (Cucumber Sandwiches)

Benedictine, a staple at the Kentucky Derby, is a cucumber and cream cheese spread named after the restaurant that first created it. Enjoy it as finger sandwiches on cocktail bread or as a vegetable dip.

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, grated
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• Dash of green food coloring (optional)
• Cocktail bread (pumpernickel is recommended) or vegetables

Instructions

1. Pare, grate, and drain the cucumber.
2. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture on cocktail bread or use it as a dip for vegetables.

Dessert: Kentucky Derby Pie

This rich and gooey pie, made with chocolate and walnuts, is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon bourbon
• 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 prepared 8-inch pie crust

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Spread chocolate chips and nuts in the bottom of the prepared pie shell.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Mix in flour.
4. Beat the eggs slightly and stir them into the creamed mixture. Add bourbon.
5. Pour the filling into the pie shell over the chocolate chips and nuts.
6. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes.

Cocktail: Limoncello Mint Lemonade

This refreshing cocktail, made with fresh mint leaves, is perfect for a Derby party.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup lemonade concentrate
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• 1/4 cup Limoncello (lemon liqueur)
• 1/2 cup club soda

Instructions

1. In a small pitcher, muddle mint leaves with lemonade concentrate and lemon juice.
2. Stir in ice cubes, Limoncello, and club soda.
3. Pour into 4 glasses and garnish with a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh mint.

Serving Size

Makes 4-10 oz. drinks.

Conclusion

Invite friends over, prepare these delicious recipes, and enjoy the Kentucky Derby together. These dishes are sure to make your party a hit.

Interesting Stats

• The Kentucky Derby is the longest-running sporting event in the United States, having been held annually since 1875. Source: KentuckyDerby.com
• The record attendance for the Kentucky Derby was set in 2015, with 170,513 spectators. Source: ESPN

By incorporating these recipes and historical tidbits, your Kentucky Derby party will be both delicious and informative. Enjoy the race!