Food

A Dreamy Italian Menu for Summer Dinner

There comes a time in every summer when you can’t escape it: Everyone you know is on vacation. Maybe they’re camping on an island. Maybe they’re on some sandy beach in Florida. Maybe they’re floating down a river. I, on the other hand, am…not.

I’ve put my phone down, turned on a fan, and let it blow through my hair. Then I just stuck my face in front of the AC. Then I started planning my very own trip. I have pasta!

The Menu

Tomato Salad

Burrata, Peach, and Basil

Clam and Corn Pasta

Lemon Granita and Cream

Another summer favorite

Grilled Caesar Salad

Crisp little gem lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and rich parmesan cheese work together to create this fresh and hearty Grilled Caesar Salad, all rounded out with a delicate smoky flavor. This summer-inspired salad is an easy way to elevate your appetizers this summer.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

1 garlic clove

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon anchovy paste

1 egg yolk

1 cup olive oil

1 cup parmesan cheese

ground pepper

pinch of salt

Make the dressing.

Using a mortar and pestle, grind the garlic clove with a pinch of salt until a fine paste forms. Add the egg yolk, and anchovy paste, and whisk until combined.

Add the lemon juice and ¼ cup of olive oil, whisking again until combined. Slowly add the parmesan and olive oil, whisking to emulsify as you go. You can also use an immersion blender. Finish with ground pepper.

Assemble the salad. 

Pre-heat a grill on high. Wash and dry the little gem lettuce, halving pieces lengthwise. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.

Place gem halves on the grill, cut side down, for about 3 minutes until you reach the desired char.