As the days stretch and lighten, so do our spirits. Summer brings our senses back to life. Warm sun on our skin, the scent of tomato leaves and wafting BBQ smoke, the sounds of children playing out late. And that’s before we get to the food.
Sun-ripened strawberries, sticky and sweet. The sweet, tangy crunch of lightly pickled cucumbers and peppery bite of freshly picked salad leaves. A glut of tomatoes, tossed in salads or baked in buttery, crumbling pastry. Food that tastes of life.
There is a lightness and ease to the summer months that filters through to the everyday. We don’t want to be trapped behind tables or stuck in the formality of routine. We want to eat with our hands, to lie back and see the sky. We want food we can pass around and share. Food that brings us together.
This summer, let’s celebrate the best of summer food with recipes that are fresh, light, and full of flavour. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Salads
Salads are the perfect summer food. They’re refreshing, nutritious, and easy to make. Try a simple tomato salad with basil and olive oil, or a more complex salad with grilled peaches, quinoa, and goat cheese.
Tarts
Summer tarts are another delicious and easy option. They’re perfect for a potluck or picnic. Try a classic strawberry tart, or a more unique tart with berries and lemon curd.
Sandwiches
Sandwiches are perfect for a quick and easy summer lunch. Make a grilled chicken sandwich with pesto and avocado, or a BLT with vine-ripened tomatoes.
BBQ
No summer is complete without a barbecue. Fire up the grill and cook up some burgers, hot dogs, and ribs. Don’t forget the sides! Try a potato salad, coleslaw, and grilled corn on the cob.
Ice cream
No summer is complete without ice cream. Make your own ice cream at home with an ice cream maker, or buy it from your favourite local scoop shop. Try a classic chocolate or vanilla cone, or a more adventurous flavour like pistachio or salted caramel.
No matter what you choose to eat this summer, make sure to enjoy it with friends and family. Summer food is all about sharing and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are a few additional tips for making the most of your summer food:
- Use seasonal ingredients. Seasonal ingredients are at their freshest and most flavorful during the summer months. Take advantage of the bounty of produce that’s available and create dishes that showcase the best of what summer has to offer.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Summer is the perfect time to try new recipes and experiment with different flavours. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new.
- Make it easy on yourself. Summer is a busy time of year, so don’t spend hours in the kitchen preparing elaborate meals. Choose recipes that are easy to make and don’t require a lot of ingredients.
- Enjoy the outdoors. Summer is the perfect time to dine al fresco. Eat your meals on the porch, patio, or in the backyard. Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while you eat.
Summer is a time for celebration and enjoyment. Let your food reflect that. Choose fresh, flavorful ingredients and create dishes that you and your loved ones will savour.
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