As the seasons evolve, so do our cravings and inspirations in the kitchen. So, as summer comes to a close, I want to share three of my favorite summer recipes that will help you end the season in a delicious way!

Focaccia w/ mozzarella, basil, prosciutto & peaches

This focaccia w/ mozzarella, basil, prosciutto & peaches is DELIGHTFUL & so simple..no recipe needed! You can use any easy method for making caramelized onions & voila! Enjoy!

Summer Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

This dish is a celebration of vibrant flavors and simplicity. I start with al dente pasta, toss it with sun-ripened, juicy tomatoes bursting with freshness, and sprinkle in aromatic, hand-picked basil leaves. The result is a harmonious marriage of sweet and savory, capturing the essence of the season in every bite. It’s the perfect embodiment of summer on a plate, promising a refreshing and satisfying culinary experience..

Summer Spaghetti Raw Tomato and Basil. Serves 4

1/2 pounds plum tomatoes, summer ripe ( about 8 tomatoes )
Cut tomato in half and squeeze out seeds.
Chop tomatoes into 3/4 inch dice.
Alternately, you can chop half of them and then grate half on a box grater.
20 basil leaves, chiffonaded and a few for garnish
1- 2 cloves garlic cut in half
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated fresh Parmigiano Reggiano
1 pound dried Italian spaghetti

In a bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil and salt and pepper.
Let sit for 1 hr and up to 3 hrs.
Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions and drain.
Drain Tomato mixture
Pull out the garlic
Add the tomatoes into warm pasta
Add 1/4 cup of pasta water
Grate parm all over.
Stir to combine.
Garnish w fresh basil.
Serve!

Raspberry Basil Summer Sunset Cocktail

This cocktail is a delightful combination of the sweet juiciness of ripe raspberries and the fresh, herbal notes of handpicked basil leaves. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a cozy backyard get-together, this cocktail is my go-to choice for capturing the magic of a summer sunset in a glass. Cheers!

Raspberry Basil Summer Sunset Cocktail Recipe ✨

Makes 2 drinks

Sugar Syrup
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
¼ cup fresh basil leaves

In a small saucepan, place sugar, water and raspberries
Boil for 10 min.
Add the basil while mixture is still warm, and let steep for half hr.
Strain and  refrigerate.
Can be made a week in advance.