This was the first time I had ever prepared gnocchi. I like it, but most of the time I think it is a big heavy. However, it is one of Patrick’s favorites and this recipe is different from the typical way gnocchi is prepared so I tried it. It was really tasty. I used chicken sausage, but I have a feeling regular pork sausage would be even better. You would have to cook the sausage for a bit longer, but probably only a few minutes.
We’re going to Martha’s Vineyard on Friday for a week and I can’t wait! My girlfriends from college and I are taking turns vacationing at a rental over three weeks, but this weekend we will all be there together. Between our upcoming trip, a recent day-trip to Jacob Riis Park to enjoy NYC’s surf and sand, and multiple trips to the farmers market I definitely feel like I am in the midst of summer. And, I love it.
The view from the porch of our Vineyard rental
To celebrate all of the amazing produce that is available this time of year I thought I would do something a little different this week. Instead of the usual meal plan I thought I’d post a bunch of my favorite summer side dishes. I love veggies and fruit all year long, but there is nothing like August when it all seems to be at its peak at the exact same time. These side dishes are great with grilled chicken, steak or fish and can be made for as few as one person to as many as a whole party’s worth.
Enjoy!
Panzanella (Tomato and Bread Salad)
Watermelon, Tomato and Feta Salad
Cucumber Salad
Zucchini Fritters
Patrick is allergic to watermelon so I only make this salad when I’m cooking for a bunch of people. It is all over restaurant menus, but I don’t care. The sweet of the melon and the salt of the feta cheese is great together. It is incredibly versatile too. You can add or substitute with kalamata olives, basil, cucumber or mozzarella, to name a few.
1/4 wedge of watermelon, cut into 1-inch chunks
1/2 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
1 hunk of feta cheese, crumbled
several mint leaves, torn up
2 TB. olive oil
1 TB. lime juice
salt and pepper, to taste
Mix all of the ingredients together and taste. You may want more lime juice or olive oil, but remember you can always add but you can’t take away, so go lightly.
