Time to enjoy the final weeks of summer fare

Despite all the high temps and heat warnings, we must face the inevitable – which is that summer is drawing to a close. Indeed, the calendar does not lie, and with September (and Labour Day) just around the corner, it may be time to savour the final few weeks of summer fare.

With this in mind, let’s consider which local fruits and veggies are in season. Like fresh Ontario apples, peaches, and watermelon. (After all, who doesn’t like a cold slice of watermelon with the humidex topping 30 Celsius?) And on the veggie side, field tomatoes and peppers – and, of course, Ontario corn!

Regarding the latter, I’m partial to the deliciously sweet peaches & cream variety. Especially once it’s freshly plucked from a pot of boiling water, spun slowly on a brick of grass-fed butter, and then lightly sprinkled with sea salt. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that is synonymous with my favourite season.

Also nice this time of year are bright, fresh salads. There’s much you can do with seasonal veggies and fruits, like creating this delicious Basil & Feta Corn Salad. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a few chicken, pork, or beef skewers (we have these grill-ready), or you can toss in a few barbecued chicken strips for a more complete meal.

Equally hearty is a Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad. Featuring chunks of the unripened cheese, which can be eaten raw, but is even better grilled or fried due to its high melting point, this salad won’t leave you feeling peckish just an hour after you’ve eaten.

On the more snacky side, there’s guacamole and tortilla chips. I’m a big fan of the avocado, which may not be local, but has more health benefits than I have space in this blog. And when it’s combined with diced tomatoes, cilantro, onions, and lime, the result is one of my favourite summer dips.

Of course, there’s no shortage of local artisan brews to accompany your al fresco dining. You can check some of our earlier blogs for ideas on ciders, radlers, and beers. Or you can try something equally creative – and non-alcoholic – like this Perfect Peach Iced Tea.

So, for the time being, keep the fresh, local produce coming, the propane tank topped up, and the patio chairs on deck before the summer heat transitions into crisp fall weather.

Until next time…

— Neil