Now that summer has finally arrived in Seattle and decided to stay(!), I just can't bring myself to turn on the stove or oven without a really good* reason. Anyone with a small apartment can attest to how rapidly it goes from hot to sweltering. Any other time of year you can just open all the windows and wish the extra heat away, but right now? Not an option.
So what's a girl to do? Well, aside from turning on the barbecue or ordering take-out, I've been taking advantage of all the delicious fresh fruit and veggies available and making simple salads, desserts, and the like which require no cooking. Isn't it convenient that the hottest time of the year is also when all the most delicious produce is available - produce that's perfectly ripe and doesn't need intense cooking or seasoning to taste it's best.
Oh, and the best part about these summer meals? They tend to come together really quickly, meaning more time to sit outside and relish in the sights and sounds of summer - preferably while sipping a mojito, of course.
Take this simple dessert. Cut up some perfectly ripe figs, add a dollop of creme fraiche, and finally drizzle with honey.
Simplicity at its finest.
What's your favorite way to enjoy figs? My friend Matt recommended using them in a salad paired with goat cheese and a honey-balsamic vinaigrette. Sounds tasty, no?
*Really good reasons include (but are not limited to): cinnamon rolls, carnitas, and blueberry pie. Hmmm...now I might have to go turn that oven on after all.
