It is summer. It is hot. And I am officially sick of the meals that have been in heavy rotation in our house since we rang in the New Year. It is time to hit the farmer's markets and stock up on fresh, delish produce to give the senses a charge and maybe, just maybe convince my toddler that there are more vegetables in the world than corn on the cob (shut up, I know it is really a starch, people). My favorite inspiration is to peek into other people's kitchens for a glimpse of what is on the stove, on the grill and being tossed into salady goodness. Since that's apparently illegal and socially awkward if you haven't exactly been introduced to the neighbor yet, let's do the next best thing and check out what the bloggers are cooking up on these lazy, hazy summer eves:
Stuffed artichokes and salad with cherries and queso fresco -- delicioso! Food on the Food is full of fabulous family photos and stories with accompanying recipes that will make you feel like you've been handed the recipe box brought over from the old country.
Crunchy broccoli salad, courtesy our own Stefania. This is going to be a perfect side dish to deliver with sandwich makings to the playgroup mommy who just had a new baby.
This Nicoise salad is plated up for front porch eating by the folks at Tea & Cookies, hearty enough to use lots of CSA goodies for the week, protein-packed enough so you can endure an afternoon of sprinkler hopping and garage sale-ing, and still full of crunchy, juicy freshness.
Cheese straws and chili, served up by Wacky Mommy. I'll be honest, I'm not making chili. But I would definitely whip up some snacky little cheese straws to serve for playdates, preferably with lots of gin and gossip.
Coconut braised short ribs and sweet potatoes, whipped up by Erielle at Fancy Toast and which have my mouth watering and me all ready to (and this is big) get the house clean enough to invite friends over for a mid-week meal (that isn't take-out pizza or Thai food).
Bon appetit and happy un-spaghetting and de-taco nighting!
