As summer draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family for a memorable end-of-summer feast. Late summer brings an abundance of ripe fruits and vegetables at their seasonal peak, making it an ideal time to enjoy fresh and flavorful dishes. This period is also marked by vibrant festivals and markets around the world, celebrating local specialties and traditional dishes, which add to the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a more festive dinner, these recipes will help you celebrate the last warm days of the season in style.
Grapefruit Salsa
This vibrant Grapefruit Salsa is a refreshing twist on traditional salsa, bringing a burst of bright, citrusy flavor to your plate. The juicy Florida Grapefruit pairs beautifully with zesty lime, spicy jalapeno, and the crunch of red bell pepper and onion. With a hint of cardamom and fresh cilantro, this salsa is the perfect complement to grilled meats, seafood, or a big platter of nachos, adding a lively, fresh taste to any dish.
Pear Burrata Salad
It doesn’t get any simpler! Indulge in Liren Baker’s (@kitchconfidante) Pear Burrata Salad, a beautiful bowl with a crisp baby arugula base and topped with luscious Anjou pears and creamy burrata cheese. If you can’t find burrata, substitute with mozzarella! Minced red onions and stone ground mustard, add a delightful kick. Topped with the irresistible crunch of crushed candied walnuts and a simple vinaigrette, this salad promises a burst of freshness and decadence in every bite.
Apple Beetroot Carpaccio
Looking for a dish that’s both beautiful and bursting with flavor? Then this dish is just right for you: Finely sliced and artfully draped, the Apple Beetroot Carpaccio is a true masterpiece when it comes to fusing flavors and aesthetics. The invigorating sweetness of Washington Apples pairs perfectly with the earthy notes of beetroot, creating a harmonious interplay on the plate. This dish isn’t just stunning, it is also packed with nutrients! Washington Apples are rich in vitamins and fiber while beetroot is high in heart-healthy antioxidants and nitrates. What more could you ask for?
Pear, Prune and Fennel Salad
Healthy and delicious, this recipe hits all the right notes! The salad shines especially in late summer when its ingredients are at their aromatic peak, bursting with flavor. Fresh fennel provides the salad’s characteristic crunch while fresh pears add sweetness to every bite. Naturally sweet and chewy, California Prunes add a unique texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp fennel and juicy pears. Finished with a creamy ranch dressing, this salad is a perfect way to savor the last days of summer and make the most of the season’s freshest ingredients!
Grilled Watermelon with Feta Cheese
How about celebrating the end of summer with a big barbeque with friends and family? Before the watermelon season comes to an end, enjoy this delightful and unexpected addition to your gathering: grilled watermelon. Juicy, red watermelon is grilled for a smokey flavor, then adorned with fresh basil and salty feta cheese. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a couple of grilled lime slices add a beautiful balance of sweet and tart. To round off this delicious dish, pair with a fruity California Rosé or a refreshing California Sauvignon Blanc. Here’s to a great barbeque! Cheers!
Summer Cucumber-Melon Salad with Roasted Pistachios and Feta
With pistachio harvest season in full swing, these nutrient-packed nuts are the perfect addition to late-summer dishes like this cucumber-melon salad. To prepare, just chop all ingredients, toss them in a bowl, then sprinkle with roasted American Pistachios and crumbled feta cheese. Finish with your favorite dressing for a quick, easy, and delightful dish. This salad is super quick and easy to make and becomes truly special with the addition of American Pistachios, which add a crunchy texture, a nutty flavor, and heart-healthy fats. Fun Fact: Did you know pistachios are referred to as “green diamonds”? The shell of the pistachio naturally splits open when fully ripe. And remember, the greener the nut, the better its quality.
