Whole Wheat Rolls with Tomato Pesto

Whole Wheat Rolls with tomato Pesto

A Glimpse of Summer

“It was very warm for March, and the kite wind blew steadily from the south and turned up the silver undersides of the leaves.”

East of Eden, John Steinbeck

Inspiration

I found out where summer is hiding. It’s such a small thing but I am ecstatic! You can catch me buying greenhouse grown tomatoes during the winter. I just can’t help myself. I miss the robust flavor of fresh tomatoes in salads and most of all the sweet intensity of roasted tomatoes. At the grocery store I noticed a packet of sun dried tomatoes–just tomatoes, in a package similar to dried fruit. I peered in the small clear window to inspect the contents and then gave the package a hearty squeeze. The tomatoes were soft and a bright sunny red. I couldn’t believe I’d uncovered a glimpse of summer hiding at the grocery store! READ MORE . . .

Pasta Salad with Pesto

Pasta and Pesto Salad

Summer Pesto and Pasta: Chapter Two

“The summer progressed and the Salinas River retired underground or stood in green pools under high banks.”

East of Eden, John Steinbeck

Inspiration

This is the second summer recipe with pasta and pesto as key ingredients. I am always searching for a summer salad to serve when grilling. When potato salad is too heavy and another green salad is not substantial enough I often make Pasta Salad with Pesto with lots of veggies. Preparing the salad for dinner can be done earlier in the day and then I have time to make dessert! Gotta leave time for important things in life, like dessert. And I should mention, any leftover salad is usually gone the next day. READ MORE . . .

Roasted Tomatoes and Spaghetti with Pesto

Roasted Tomatoes and Spaghetti with Pesto

Summer Pesto and Pasta Series: Chapter One

“Why don’t you come up and have some supper with us?”

East of Eden, John Steinbeck

Inspiration

An abundance of tomatoes and basil seem to magically appear as the summer sun burns away the fog. Along the coast we wait in anticipation for the caressing warmth of summer. Like small children at Christmas who can’t wait any longer for Santa we wait for the bright glorious summer sunshine. Our spirits soar when there is no fog for a 5 day run and the temperature climbs into the high seventies. To celebrate summer I make fresh pesto and roast tomatoes for pasta. One of my favorites is Roasted Tomatoes and Spaghetti with Pesto. This is a great way to use ripe tomatoes and whirl up all that basil. READ MORE . . .