Honeyed Hens
Serves 8

Sweet, tart, spicy - flavors that explode in your mouth all at once - make these little birds one of my favorite picnic menu items. Wait until you see how easy they are to prepare.

4 Cornish game hens, split in half
4 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup honey
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
salt

Blot hens dry. Make a mixture of 2 tablespoons oil and ground pepper. Rub into skins of hens and let rest about 1 hour at room temperature.

Mix remaining ingredients and spread over hens in a non-corrosive dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Preheat grill or broiler until very hot. Cook hens about 6 inches from heat for 30 minutes,turning frequently, until golden brown and joints move easily.