The best summer meals are inspired not only by the seasonal produce freshly picked from the fields, but also the smells and tastes of long, hot days and vacations. Lazy sunny days at the shore and thirst-quenching fruit and citrus and herb gardens baking in the sun all influence what we’re eating. As these dishes start popping up in restaurants and backyards across the country, all you have to do is find the right wine, then sit down and dig in.
I love this grilled Mediterranean vegetable plate above from Trattoria Uliveto in Orcutt, California. A great vegetarian summer meal.
The taste of the sea, perfect for a summer meal: mussels + clams from Trattoria Uliveto.
I ♥ tomatoes: cherry tomatoes with olive oil + cured pork plate above from Trattoria Uliveto.
Food pops are everywhere! These are salmon pops above, also known as smoked salmon lollipops.
Smoked Salmon Lollipop Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 oz sour cream
- lollipop sticks
- smoked salmon, cut into medium slices
- caviar (or black sea salt)
- chives, chopped
Whip cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) together, form into little balls and push the stick in. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, wrap each one in smoked salmon, dip in caviar and top with chopped chives. If you can’t find caviar, you could try black sea salt to get the same look and level of saltiness.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 oz sour cream
- lollipop sticks
- smoked salmon, cut into medium slices
- caviar (or black sea salt)
- chives, chopped
- Whip cream cheese and sour cream (or crème fraîche) together, form into little balls and push the stick in. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, wrap each one in smoked salmon, dip in caviar and top with chopped chives. If you can't find caviar, try black sea salt to get the same look and level of saltiness.
Lemon goes so well with herbs in summer desserts! Try these Lemon Rosemary cupcakes from A Classic Twist.
Don’t forget the rosé to perfectly complement your summer meal and enjoy those hot days, late sunlight and great vacations!
