Market Inspirations for Summer

Summer is here and it's time to grill outdoors and enjoy al fresco dining! Hooray! Take a look at these items you'll find this summer to inspire your cooking.  I included some quick and easy recipes for sides and desserts if you want to try something simple to compliment your summer meals.  There's a lot to be excited for this summer, including these great options to keep you happy and healthy.

Bell Peppers        Chiles
Corn                    Cucumbers
Eggplant              Green Beans
Lettuce                 Melons
Nectarines            Peaches
Plums                   Summer Squash
Tomatoes              Zucchini


Quick Sides:
Romaine Lettuce: easy salad to make with this is to add to the romaine, chopped cucumbers, tomatoes and olives with a yogurt herb based dressing.

Zucchini: If you have a garden filled with zucchini here's an easy recipe.  Use a peeler to cut the zucchini into thin strips.  Then boil in salted water until the veggie is tender. Lastly you'll toss with olive oil and grated lemon zest for flavor.

Corn: (my favorite summertime food) brush the corn cobs with olive oil then sprinkle some salt and pepper.  Grill the cobs over a hot fire, making sure to rotate them often until they are tender and crisp, about 10 minutes.

Quick Desserts:

Peaches: Pit the peaches then halve them. Next you'll brush melted butter over the peaches and grill over medium until they are well browned. After 8 minutes on the grill sprinkle with gingersnaps or crumbled cookie.

Plums: Slice the plums into thin slices and serve with a fruit sorbet.

Cantaloupe, Honeydew or Watermelon: Cut your melon into wedges, chill these in the fridge and serve with some sea salt and chile powder to sprinkle on the top.