I don't teach at the Midwest Culinary Institute in summertime, but that doesn't mean my schedule is any less busy. I'm still creating recipes for SparkPeople, driving the boys to and from their activities, and working on the family farm--and of course, running and swimming at the pool! I let the seasons guide my menus, and when the temperature rises, my palate craves what's fresh and simple. Grilled vegetables and meats, fresh fish, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Two of the easiest ways to dress up fresh and simple meals without adding fat, sodium, and calories are to make salsas and relishes. They're a key to 5-minute meals! "Salsa" means "sauce" in Spanish, which means you're only limited by your imagination and the ingredients on hand when creating a new salsa. And though we think of sweet pickles on hot dogs when we think of relish, you can create one using plenty of fruits and vegetables. You just need to "pickle" them using an acid (such as vinegar) and cook them. (You could even do this on a grill if you're trying to keep the kitchen cool.) I created two new recipes that are perfect for hot summer nights. I made a big batch of each and use them several nights a week. Chef Meg's Spicy Stone Fruit Salsa  Chef Meg's Summer Corn Relish If you like those, be sure to try these recipes, too: Chef Meg's Grilled Perch with Citrus Salsa, Cilantro Sauce and Salsa Verde, for a fancier meal Island Chicken with Pineapple Salsa (Chef Meg's Makeover) Find more salsa recipes here. Try some new relishes, too! With simple additions and fresh ingredients, you can whip up a five minute meal for dinner tonight. What is your favorite summer sauce or condiment? Do you make your own salsa? |
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