Summer Lovin'

In case you haven't been outside in a few days or hours, I just wanted to let you know that we're now in the hot, sweaty middle of summer. Which means, sunshine, shorts, flip flops -- and spectacular fruits -- abound! I love summer fruits. Berries, melons, tomatoes, oh-my!

Speaking of--here are some favorite recipes to try. Enjoy. (I'm off to make myself a watermelon cocktail!)

Mixed Berry Coffee Cake
This lovely mixed berry coffee cake that can be eaten for breakfast, brunch or dessert, or all three....

Another coffee cake, this time, blueberries are the star.
Summer Shortcake
Featuring Mama's Plain Butter Cake recipe.

Summer Fruit Salad with Ricotta and Tupelo Honey
A treat on the lighter side.

Two lovely ways to beat the heat ... courtesy of my FCI days.


As for tomatoes (yes, they are technically a fruit), beefsteak, plum, cherry, Heirloom, right off the vine -- I can't get enough of them this time of year. 

A simple tomato, basil and mozzarella salad with a splash of olive oil and balsamic vinegar makes for an easy summer dish.  

Here are a few other ways to use them:

Hurricane Pie
A great way to use up leftovers from  your steak and veggie barbecue from the night before.

Fettuccine, Tomatoes, Basil and Goat Cheese
Simple and delish.

Oven-Roasted Cod with Tomatoes, Olives, Capers, Garlic and Lemon
A household favorite. And a great way to make the most of summer's fresh-caught fish.

I heart Summer.
xoxox