Summer Photo Round-Up

My home turf: Davis, California

It doesn't seem like I've done much in the six weeks since moving back to California, but the mountain of food photos I've taken tells a much different story. Living in Philly this past year has taught me to look at the California produce I grew up with in a completely different light, and now I just cannot put the camera down. Rather than long recipes, I've included some simple guidelines that hopefully will inspire you to search for great produce and eat well. Also, big thanks to my mom & uncle for growing most of the spectacular vegetables seen below.

Want something easy? Dip raw veggies into delicious hummus, guacamole, or baba ganoush.

Tons of tomatoes? Cut small ones in half, larger ones in wedges, and placing them on a sheet tray. Dress with olive oil, salt, and herbs, and roast until they look like a juicy sun-dried tomato. These are awesome on pasta and sandwiches.

Don't like using the oven often? Increase efficiency and roast a few beets in foil with olive oil and salt when you are roasting/baking something else. Peel by rubbing with a towel and dress with thyme or basil, and lemon juice.

Fortunate enough to find berries and stone fruit? Toss with a little sugar and lemon juice, and cook it down to create a delicious chunky preserve or jam. Enjoy your delicious spread with any baked good, ice cream, or granola and yogurt.

Bounty of fresh vegetables? 

Coat in herbed olive oil and throw on the grill. If you don't have a grill, just saute and/or broil.

Have some delicious bread on hand? Make an open-face sandwich or bruschetta with

herbed goat cheese and peppers, avocado/tomato/corn, or in this case, salted butter and radishes.

 There are still a few weeks left in summer, so hurry up and take advantage! I know I will.