Summer Treats!

Thank goodness we’re finally getting some sunshine. Somewhere between juggling work and life, I managed to put in two garden beds at my home (so happy about this!), and that coupled with this wonderful weather has been making me feel inspired. So, no shop talk today… instead I decided to post a couple of summer recipes I thought you guys would enjoy : )

Raspberry Lime Jam

4 cups ripe red raspberries
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons lime juice
Zest of one lime
2 teaspoons calcium water
2 teaspoons pectin

Courtesy of Foodaphilia – (click for the full recipe)

There is something about lime that just pairs so well with raspberries. Tangy and sweet, this jam will make you think of summer no matter what time of the year you enjoy it.

Easy Summer Pie

• 1 (9 inch) frozen pie crust, thawed
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
• 4 kiwi, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Courtesy of AllRecipes – (click for the full recipe)

The perfect dessert for us berry lovers, and a nice, cool (not too sweet) summer treat.

Tomato, Mozzarella, & Basil Pasta Salad

• 2 cups of pasta
• 1 package of grape tomatoes, sliced lengthwise or 2 medium sized tomatoes, chopped
• 10-12 basil leaves
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
• ¼ cup pitted kalamata olives, roughly chopped (optional)
• 5 oil-packed sundried tomatoes, sliced thinly (optional)
• Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
• Salt and pepper to taste

Courtesy of VestaVamps – (click for the full recipe)

This is one of those pasta salads that doesn’t have to be served as a side. On hot summer days it makes a wonderful filling and refreshing main dish.

If any of you guys have some favorite summer recipes, post a link and let me know why you love them : )