If you’re one of those summer fiends who clings desperately to the season, sad to see it fade into the chilly awesomeness that is autumn, this article is for you.
Here are five recipes to help you hold on to summer for just a little while longer:
- Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad. Capture the essence of summer by grilling ripe peaches to perfection. Toss them with fresh burrata cheese, arugula, and a drizzle of honey-balsamic vinaigrette. The combination of smoky sweetness from the peaches and the creamy richness of burrata makes this salad a true seasonal favorite. Side note, this would also be killer on flatbread.
- Zucchini and Corn Fritters. Take advantage of the abundance of zucchini and corn in late summer with something everyone loves: fritters. Grate the zucchini, mix it with fresh corn kernels, and fold in a flavorful batter. Pan-fry these little guys until golden brown and serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a homemade herb-infused yogurt sauce.
- Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. Upgrade your regular Caprese salad by stuffing juicy Portobello mushrooms with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and a balsamic reduction before baking. These mushrooms make for a satisfying and hearty appetizer or side dish. If you’re like me and the sight of mushrooms sends you running, consider some caprese skewers instead!
- Watermelon and Mint Gazpacho. Cool down on hot end-of-summer days with a refreshing watermelon and mint salad. This salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the herbaceous freshness of mint and a hint of acidity from tomatoes. And don’t forget the feta! Serve it as a starter or a light lunch.
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa. Just because yours truly is allergic to shellfish, doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t get to embrace the flavors of the sea and the tropics with these downright mouthwatering grilled shrimp tacos. Marinate shrimp in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and chili powder before grilling. Top them with a vibrant mango salsa, made with ripe mangoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Serve in warm tortillas for a taste of the beach.