Summer Cooking

Thank you all for your enthusiasm about my new project, The Cookie Box! It will be out on October 27th, but you can preorder it now. Check out that link for more info and links to order.

Today I want to share a couple of summer recipe formulas that I return to every year around this time when the produce is immaculate, the weather is hot, and I’d rather be doing a lot of things that are not cooking in my non air conditioned kitchen.

I recently made the dangerous discovery that that Costco sells burrata and it has taken up a permanent residence in my summer fridge. Creamy and stretchy burrata is perfect pair to with ripe sweet and tart plums (or pluots or plumcots) in this caprese style riff.

Here’s how to make it: Slice up a few plums into wedges. Sprinkle them generously with flaky salt. Tear a few small balls of burrata over the top and drizzle with olive oil. Zest a lemon directly over the top and add some torn basil and more salt and black pepper.

I used Brightland’s Basil Olive Oil for this (gifted) and it was STUNNING.

Sub any stone fruit, for the plums, feta or goat cheese for the burrata, and mint for the basil. Don’t skimp on the salt and olive oil!

There has been some anti angel hair propaganda floating around and I don’t understand it. I find the thin strands extremely satisfying to bite through and they cook quickly which is essential for summer cooking. Add some juicy tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and red pepper flakes and you have dinner in about 15 minutes.

Here’s how to make it: Chop up a big juicy tomato or two and add it to a big bowl. Grate a small garlic clove over the top with a microplane and add some red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Salt it generously and add a glug of olive oil. Let it marinate while you boil water and cook a handful of angel hair pasta. When the pasta is aldente drain it and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes. Use tongs to vigorously toss it together then add torn basil and more oil and salt to taste. If it tastes like it’s “missing something” add a squeeze of lemon juice and toss it again.

I used Brightland’s Chili Olive Oil for this (gifted) and it added some nice heat to round out the flavors.

Sub any quick cooking pasta for the angel hair, add some cheese, or more garlic if that’s your style. Don’t skimp on the salt and olive oil!

What do you guys think about a savory shortcake? Am I on to something or is it crazy? Let me know if you’d like to see the recipe here and I’ll write it up for you!

p.s. these are ricotta shortcakes (!)

Brightland’s Olive Oils and Vinegars are so delicious and make summer cooking so easy!

Crow Canyon Home has the perfect bake and serve ware for cabin or picnic cooking. I also love their storage bowls with lids, mixing/serve bowls, and this anchovy tray! I just bought this comically huge bowl for the cabin, but you know what, when you are cooking for 30 people you need a bowl big enough to bathe a small child. Check out their new collab with daniel pelosi too!

Use the code YOSSY20 for 20% off at Material Kitchen. I especially like their microplastic free cutting boards and knives

Get 20% off the most delicious smelling dish soap and cleaning products from Koala Eco FREE gifts with purchase too!

My favorite baking pans from Nordicware

My favorite spatulas by GIR

My favorite whisk for bigger jobs by OXO

Fun and colorful sheet pans by Great Jones available as half or quarter sheets. These are a bit heavier than the Nordicware, and they can double as serving platters. We love that!

You can preorder from any of the following retailers or look for it in your favorite book store or gift shop on October 27!

Please like, comment, or share this post with a friend to spread the word about The Cookie Box!

Thanks, as always, for your support!

xx Yossy