There is nothing quite like the giddy excitement that accompanies a changing of the seasons. The local farmer’s markets are literally bursting with new produce in varying shapes, flavors, and colors that add a punch of vibrancy and excitement to my kitchen. When you hunt down the very best ingredients, your work is already halfway way done (if not more!)—all you need to do is let them shine. That’s what I love most about summer cooking: it’s less about technique and so much more about spontaneity—and letting the seasonal flavors be your guide! Just like design, food is best when you keep it simple and only ask for a squeeze of lemon, a shower of herbs, and a dusting of sea salt. This is the same approach I take when crafting my summer salad recipes, too.
With the sweltering weather outside, the last thing any of us want to do after a hot, busy day is sweat it out over a hot stove or oven. So, a refreshing no-cook dinner you can throw together in a flash is always my go-to this time of year. Toss all your favorite sun-ripened ingredients together, whisk up a delicious dressing, and serve with a refreshing drink. Cheers to that!