Summer is upon us and for many that means fresh, local produce is just beginning to be abundantly shared. Perhaps it’s the heat, or maybe just the lackadaisical nature of the season, but diners are looking for fresh and refreshing meals in the summertime. Your guests may not know precisely what they are looking for, but they have entrusted you to serve summer up on a platter at every meal.
Creating the perfect summer menu starts with knowing what ingredients to showcase. Early summer fruits and veggies include:
- Strawberries
- Asparagus
- Fava Beans
- Garlic Scapes
- Apricots
- Peas
- Rhubarb
- Spring Onions
Take advantage of what is growing up around you and create some one-of-a-kind dishes that capture the spirit of summer. Think light, simple, and flavorful when creating summer specials. Diners don’t want to be bogged down with a heavy meal before heading out on the boat and certainly don’t want to add a few pounds before strutting around with the minimal clothing dress code summer affords.
One super simple way to showcase summer’s bounty is with a creative salad. While your typical lettuce and tomato salad may be old news, the creative combinations possible are limited only by your imagination. By using what you have on hand, something as simple as this Early Summer Vegetable Salad featuring fava beans is sure to please any summer crowd.
Summer is all about fun, friends, family, and fantastic fresh food. Step outside your apron this season and take in what nature has provided.