As the summer sun radiates its scorching heat, we can find solace in cool and refreshing drinks and dishes. To help us beat the heat, Lauren Lane (@Lauren_Lane_Culinarian and Lauren-Lane.com) showcases her culinary expertise with delightfully quick and easy recipes. Capture the essence of summer with a smoky and light grilled corn salad, a zesty and refreshing vodka lemonade, and a burrata peach salad filled with juicy fruit and luscious cheese. These recipes are perfect for parties, potlucks, patios or poolside.
Tomato Peach Burrata Salad
Yield: Serves 6
INGREDIENTS
- A few big pinches of Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 2 teaspoons fresh oregano
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes or large plum tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes. (about 2 1/2 pounds total)
- Two peaches
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or small balls
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
- 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves plus additional whole leaves for garnish
DIRECTIONS
- Combine salt through olive oil.
- Place the burrata cheese round on a platter. Arrange the tomatoes, peaches and mozzarella balls around cheese.
- Drizzle with dressing from bowl. Sprinkle with more salt and pepper. Garnish with additional basil leaves and serve.
Vodka Lemonade
Yield: Makes six cocktails
INGREDIENTS
- 48 ounces homemade lemonade (or store-bought)
- 12 ounces vodka
- Ice, for serving
- 1 lemon, sliced thinly
- Fresh mint for garnish
DIRECTIONS
- Make the lemonade or pour store-bought in a pitcher.
- Add vodka and lemon slices (can be made the day before).
- To serve: pour cocktail over ice and garnish with fresh mint.
Grilled Corn Salad
Yield: Serves 4-6
INGREDIENTS
- 2 ears corn, grilled and cut from the cob
- 1 small shallot, thinly sliced into rings
- 1/4 cup fresh feta or goat cheese, crumbled
- 3 sprigs basil, leaves removed and torn
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Black pepper to taste
- Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
DIRECTIONS
- Place corn kernels into a bowl with the rest of the ingredients and stir to combine.
- Taste, and re-season with salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste.
