Ah. Summer meals. You can’t argue the fact that food just tastes better this time of year. With so many great fresh foods in season now, putting meals together should be easy-breezy. No need for takeout, or lots of ingredients when everything is at it’s perfect ripeness. And who wants to spend time slaving over dinner when you could be at the beach or out on the back deck enjoying a cocktail or lawn game instead?

I’m a big fan of shortcuts and being efficient in the kitchen, never more so than this time of year. The other night I didn’t even bother to cook my green beans before tossing them with some olive oil, sea salt and pepper- and then the next night  I did the same with corn on the cob. They are so naturally sweet right now, you really don’t need to, promise.  So when making some pesto chicken for dinner this week, I threw my veggies in there as well- shortcut. Love that. No need for a side dish or making a salad.  6 minutes of assembly time then coming back to a full pan of goodness when the timer beeps is my kind of summer dish, especially if you are blessed with some leftovers in the fridge. So enjoy that extra time you saved. You are welcome.