As seen in the Press Democrat, August 2019
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/lifestyle/9813040-181/celebrity-chef-john-ashs-easy

Summer afternoon—summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language” (from Henry James)

When one has tasted watermelon, he knows what the angels eat” (from Mark Twain).

Oh when I look back now / That summer seemed to last forever / And if I had the choice / Yeah, I’d always wanna be there / Those were the best days of my life…” (from Bryan Adams song in Summer of ’69)

In summer, the song sings itself” (from William Carlos Williams)

All of these sum up my feelings about summer and its foods. We naturally crave foods that reflect the season that we are in. When you think of summer you think of bright colors, intoxicating aromas, fresh ripe flavors and simple cooking without turning on the oven. A visit to your local Farmers Market adds inspiration. How can you miss? I’m taking advantage here of the grill. Definitely a tool of summer!

Sooo . . . with the following recipes, some of my favorites by the way, you don’t have to do them all unless you an over achiever! Take them on one at a time and see if you like them. As always adjust flavors to your own taste.

  • Frozen Strawberry Daquiris 
  • Zucchini Pickles
  • Chilled Heirloom Tomato Soup with Summer Relish
  • Watermelon, Fig and Feta Salad
  • Grilled Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Salsa Verde
  • Sweet and Sour Eggplant
  • Grilled Fruits with Mint Custard Sauce