DLJ Produce

The summer has a carefree feel that other seasons just can’t touch. There’s excitement in the air, everyone’s outside, and summer vacation is in full effect. But summer just isn’t the same without the food. While brats and burgers are always a tasty choice, don’t forget about fresh, in-season produce. Bursting with flavor and offering innumerable ways to enjoy it, summer produce can add another dimension to your main dish or even become the entree itself. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some recipes to try or to get your creative culinary juices flowing.

The Obligatory Fruit Salad

This one comes with no recipe at all. It’s simply a dive into your tastes and mood. If you’re dreaming of sapphire blue waters and the ocean breeze in your hair, opt for a tropical salad. Just dice up some kiwis, mangoes, papaya, and strawberries, and you’re in for a treat.

If you want something with more of a local flare, go with a seasonal fruit salad. Slice up some grapes, nectarines, and peaches, throw in a pinch of sugar, and you have a salad to delight the entire family.

Look for our delicious Razzle Dazzle grapes at your local grocer for that extra sweet, crunchy taste.

Summer Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a versatile side for any backyard barbecue, yet the same recipe can become a bit tiresome. So spice it up with a summer pasta salad. Grab a pasta of your choice like rotini or farfalle and toss it with some olive oil. Next, grab some fresh cherry tomatoes and corn, add some black beans and feta, and toss. Finish it off with some parsley and a dash of salt and pepper for a dish that will leave you coming back for seconds (and thirds).

Mashed Avocado

Mashed avocado has become a popular dish around the globe, but you don’t have to pay $15 if you make it yourself. Grab a few ripe avocados that have a bit of give to them. Scoop out the flesh and throw it in a bowl. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous add some diced red onion and tomato, squeeze in some fresh lemon, and mash away with a fork. Add a touch of salt and pepper, and you have a healthy snack that even your little ones will love.

The Muesli Mix

Muesli isn’t as well-known as its sibling granola, but it’s actually a more natural option that also has far less sugar. While granola is toasted, muesli is raw and is sweetened naturally with dried fruits. But that doesn’t mean you can’t add your own.

Just grab a bowl, add a scoop or two of yogurt, throw in the muesli, and add in your favorite fruits. Grapes are always a great choice, as well as summer fruits like cherries and peaches. You just might be surprised how healthy and vibrant you feel after just a few bites.

DLJ Produce supplies grocers nationwide with the finest, freshest produce all year round.  When shopping for your fresh ingredients of fruits and vegetables, look for our label and enjoy with the whole family.

Take Advantage of Summer Fresh Fruits

Although you can make these meals any time of the year, summer fruit that’s ripe and fresh has a flavor profile you have to taste to believe. So instead of picking out-of-season fruits, grab some of nature’s candy that’s in the midst of harvest. Your taste buds will thank you, and summer dining will be the best you’ve had all year.