Last Minute Ideas for Plant Forward Summer Meals
Explore easy, last-minute appetizers, cooking techniques for summer vegetables, and creative ways to incorporate herbs into your drinks. This blog is inspired by a recent interview featuring Barbie Aknin of Community Cuisine and Christy, the founder of Planted Places. Together, we discuss how to make the most of seasonal produce and herbs to create delicious and healthy meals for summer entertaining.
Listen to the entire interview below.
Easy Last-Minute Appetizers Using Greens & Herbs
When it comes to summer entertaining, having a few quick and easy appetizer recipes on hand is essential. Barbie shares some fantastic ideas for last-minute appetizers that highlight the freshness and vibrancy of summer greens and herbs.
Blanched Greens and Cheese Spread:
One of Barbie's go-to recipes involves blanching greens such as Swiss chard or kale. Simply boil the greens for a minute, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. After draining and squeezing out excess water, chop the greens finely. These can then be mixed with a creamy cheese like goat cheese or cream cheese. This spread can be served on crostini or used as a dip for vegetables. For an extra flavor boost, add some chopped herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or basil.
Herb and Olive Oil Freezer Cubes:
Another clever tip from Barbie is to puree herbs with a bit of olive oil and freeze them in ice cube trays. These herb cubes can be added to hot pasta, soups, or sautéed vegetables for a quick infusion of fresh herb flavor. This is an excellent way to preserve the abundance of summer herbs and have them ready for use anytime.
Fried Rosemary Needles:
For a delightful and unique topping, Barbie suggests frying rosemary needles in olive oil until they are crispy. This process takes just a minute, but you need to watch carefully to prevent burning. Once fried, these rosemary needles can be sprinkled over goat cheese or used to garnish a variety of dishes, adding a crunchy and aromatic element to your appetizers.
Cooking Techniques for Summer Veggies
Cooking summer vegetables can be a challenge due to their high water content, but Barbie shares some innovative techniques to make the most of these seasonal delights.
Over-Salting Method:
One technique Barbie uses is over-salting vegetables like zucchini to draw out excess moisture. By salting the vegetables heavily, letting them sit, and then rinsing off the salt, you can achieve a concentrated and flavorful texture that retains the benefits of raw vegetables while avoiding sogginess. This method works particularly well with zucchini, giving it a tender yet firm texture that is perfect for salads or as a side dish.
Grilled Stone Fruits and Veggies:
Grilling is another excellent way to enhance the flavors of summer produce. Barbie suggests grilling stone fruits like peaches and nectarines to bring out their natural sweetness. These grilled fruits can be added to salads or served with cheese for a delicious appetizer. Additionally, grilling vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant can add a smoky flavor that complements their natural freshness.
Platter Salads:
Instead of serving salads in bowls, Barbie recommends using a platter to showcase the beauty of fresh lettuces and greens. By arranging the leaves on a flat surface, you can create a visually stunning presentation that highlights the variety of textures and colors. Adding fruits, nuts, and cheeses can elevate these salads into a centerpiece for your summer table.
Herbs in Drinks
Herbs can transform ordinary drinks into refreshing and sophisticated beverages, perfect for summer gatherings. Christy and Barbie share their favorite ways to use herbs in cocktails and mocktails.
Herb-Infused Simple Syrups:
Simple syrups infused with herbs like mint, lavender, or rosemary can add a unique flavor to your drinks. To make an herb-infused syrup, simply heat equal parts water and sugar until the sugar dissolves, then add your chosen herbs and let the mixture steep. Once cooled, strain out the herbs and store the syrup in the refrigerator. This syrup can be used in a variety of drinks, from lemonades and iced teas to cocktails like mojitos and gin fizzes.
Muddled Herbs:
Muddling fresh herbs directly into your drinks is another great way to release their flavors. Whether you're making a cocktail or a mocktail, adding herbs like basil, mint, or cilantro can provide a fresh and aromatic element. Simply crush the herbs with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils before adding the rest of your ingredients.
Frozen Herb Cubes:
As mentioned earlier, freezing pureed herbs in ice cube trays can be a convenient way to have fresh herb flavor ready to go. These herb cubes can be added to drinks to keep them cool and flavorful. For a twist, try freezing herbs with a bit of citrus juice or zest for an extra layer of taste.
Grow your own herbs to make your own concoctions for your summer entertaining. Try our Mixology Garden Kit - grow the season's herbs for peak flavor in your mixed drinks!
Creating plant-based summer meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare can be a breeze with the right techniques and ingredients. From last-minute appetizers to innovative cooking methods for summer veggies and creative herb-infused drinks, you can elevate your summer entertaining with these tips. Remember, the key to great flavor lies in the freshness and quality of your ingredients, so take advantage of the season's bounty and enjoy the process of preparing and sharing these meals with friends and family.