Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer. For anyone except those of us who live in the Bay Area. For us, it's the peak of summer. The weather warms, the sun shines, the fog lifts, and we relish those two or three balmy evenings where we can sit outside and have a proper summer barbecue. It's also time to gorge on as much summery produce as we can, before those perfect heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, crisp green beans, fresh herbs, and juicy berries and stone fruit are gone. The following recipes are perfect for celebrating the season, especially with a cold glass of dry rosé in hand.
All Photos by Wendy Goodfriend
Summer Decadence: Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Lemony Yogurt-Herb Dip
Crisp-edged, pan-fried zucchini cakes—like a summery latke—make use of the season’s delicious bounty. Top them off with a flavorful lemony yogurt and herb dip.
Throw Your Salad on the Grill: Grilled Mushroom, Kale, and Bacon Salad
Grilling meaty mushrooms, especially when brushed with garlic and herb oil, highlights their umami flavors. Tossing them into a kale salad graced with bacon and lemon will highlight your meal.
Party food! Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Summer Veggies
From chicken to pork to assorted vegetables, kebabs are deliciously fun to eat, quick to cook, and endlessly versatile. These chicken kebabs are some of my summer favorites.
Get Your Sweet Grill On: Grilled Corn, Pepper, Tomato, and Arugula Salad with Feta
Light up the grill, crack open a beer, and throw on some corn and sweet peppers, and voila, you have a memorable salad that will come together in a snap.
Summer Italian Potato Salad: Potato and Green Bean Salad with Lemon Pesto Vinaigrette
Looking for a way to sass up your potato salad? This fresh, summery version kicks the mayo to the curb in favor of zingy pesto and lemon vinaigrette.
Bet You Can’t Stop Eating These: Vanilla Pavlovas with Summer Nectarines, Berries, and Cream
Crispy-chewy meringue nests envelop whipped cream and vanilla-scented summer fruit for an ethereal, and gluten-free dessert that is impossible to stop eating.
