sifted words — summertime recipe roundup

Do you want to know what I’m looking forward to this summer? Two words: Sangria slushies.

Oh, and sunshine and baseball games and cookouts and pool/beach lounging and farmers markets and sandals and neon nail polish and sunglasses and warm nights chilling on the balcony but ALSO: sangria slushies.

Oh, and guacamole and peachy French toast casserole and strawberry grilled cheese and caprese soup and pretzel nachos but AGAIN: sangria slushies.

But I’m getting ahead of myself.

If you’re anything like me in that you plan much of your life around food (let’s be honest, it’s how I plan vacations), here’s a handy-dandy recipe roundup of what I’ve been creating for the lovely Tablespoon, Betty Crocker and The Huffington Post — all of which you should put on your to-make list this summer. I know that between these things and probably some popsicles, I’m set for the season.

Get ready for a rumbly in your tumbly!

First up: Black Bean-Pineapple Guacamole (pictured above). Oh me oh my oh YUM, this stuff is good. Like, crazy-good. Like, you’ll-need-to-step-away-from-the-bowl-after-a-few-minutes-unless-you-plan-to-eat-the-entire-thing-good.

Radicchio, Watercress and Fennel Salad. It’s so unique and crunchy and flavorful that you’ll probably fall in love with it and never eat another salad for as long as you live. I kid. But seriously, ’tis tasty.

Caprese Summer Soup. Creamy tomato soup with a balsamic reduction and a big ol’ slice of fresh melty mozzarella on top? FACE PLANT CITY.

I foresee a lot of summer sunset-watching sessions on the balcony with a glass or three of this light and fruity White Wine & Elderflower Sangria. SANGRIA SIPPING CITY.

Strawberry-Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese with Salted Caramel Sauce. I think I’ve said all I need to say about that.

Chocolate-Raspberry Pots de Creme. This one, too.

Peaches ‘n Cream French Toast Casserole is what Sunday brunches are made of. Or Saturday breakfasts. Or Monday morning second breakfasts (it’s a thing) (also, you can tell I really like these ramekins).

Do you know how to make Pretzel Bite Nachos? No? Well, now you do. You’re welcome.

Remember that one time I mentioned sangria slushies? In case you don’t, SANGRIA SLUSHIES. Summer was made for these.

And finally, a little baking roundup of seasonal recipes. For us crazies who actually like being in front of our hot ovens in the hot weather.

There you have it, friends! A fun summertime recipe roundup to kick off your week. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a slushie to tend to.