Summer's sweet spot...

Have you admired the squash blossoms at the Halal Pastures Farm tent but have been afraid to  buy them? They are as easy to prepare as they are beautiful. Throw them in these savory, protein-rich pancakes, which make excellent use of every part of a summer squash and are easy to prep and eat throughout the week. Or, you can pair them with shredded zucchini "noodles" in a quick and fresh summer dinner with chickpeas and herbs. Or https://www.lifesambrosia.com/crispy-herbed-goat-cheese-stuffed-zucchini-blossoms-recipe/stuff themwith goat cheese from Sugar Shack Creamery (If you missed this great new goat-milk product vendor at last Sunday's market, they'll be back on the 20th but in Hastings tomorrow).

And for those moments when making something more intricate is not in the cards, classic cheese and crackers are a go-to midday snack for me. You can elevate each simple bite IFM-style by using Moonlight cheese from LeRoux Trading Co. and topping it off with Flynn's new turmeric- and lemon-infused Boogie Down Bronx Honey. If you're still in a cheesy mood, I recommend one of my mom's favorites: a classic grilled cheese with heirloom tomatoes from Titusville Farm. One of my favorite late-night diners used to make a stuffed grilled cheese with avocado, caramelized onions, and tomato. You really can't go wrong! And for dessert, try an easy cobbler with plums from Caradonna Farm.

I saw a friend of mine in the library the other day, and she held out a beloved perfume roller for me to smell. To my surprise, it was Simply Lavender from Copper Faucet Soap Co.! Its soothing floral scent is a perfect balm for these sweltering days. If you're being hosted by friends anytime this summer, pick up a little something from Ariella Ceramics as a thank-you gift. Her work is stunning.

While you're enjoying looking around for your favorite ingredients this Sunday, pick up your favorite sandwich from the Kinwich Sandwich food truck and enjoy tunes by Adam Hart from10:30-12:30.

 We'll see you at the market!