Back for another round of Summer Fridays! Here’s what’s on the agenda for the weekend—simple ideas for eating, drinking, making, and enjoying the season.
EATING
So many summer dishes are calling my name. I’m planning grilled halloumi and vegetable skewers, a bright blueberry summer salad and salted watermelon wedges for a salty-sweet bite. I’m also endlessly obsessed with signature house salads—seasonal greens, a standout dressing and whatever herbs and textures I have on hand. They’re easy, fresh and endlessly adaptable, which is exactly what summer meals should be.
DRINKING
My rosé guide is a bit dated, but many of the wines I recommend are still favorites this season. Rosé goes with so much of what I’m cooking, and it’s perfect for long, warm evenings. If you haven’t tried a frozen gin & tonic yet, do yourself a favor and make one this weekend—it’s unbelievably refreshing.
MAKING
I’m excited to make my summer pesto mini meatball soup again—light, flavorful and surprisingly comforting on a cool evening. I also want to prep tomato picnic toasts for easy, portable bites when we’re outside enjoying the weather.
BAKING
For baking, the blueberry-peach coffee cake is a must: tender, fruity and perfect with morning coffee or an afternoon snack. I’m also eyeing cookies and cream bars for a simple, crowd-pleasing sweet.
CRAVING
I’m craving a show-stopping cheeseboard to pair with rosé—an assortment of cheeses, crunchy crackers, seasonal fruit and a few pickles make for an effortless, elegant spread. A curated cheese selection turns casual gatherings into something special.
GRILLING
Grilled zucchini with burrata and pine nuts is one of my favorite summer sides—charred, creamy and satisfying. I’m also hoping to throw together some grilled chicken nachos for Sunday night: a fun, easy way to feed a group with minimal fuss.
LISTENING
I’ve been listening to my summer country playlist a lot. I make a new one each year and love how well country songs fit long drives, backyard hangs and lazy afternoons. I wasn’t into country growing up, but over the past decade it has become a go-to for summer vibes.
READING
I just started Emily Giffin’s latest novel, Meant To Be. I’m still echoing from the book hangover of Every Summer After—one of my favorites this year—so I’m eager to see how this one lands.
SHOPPING
With Father’s Day coming up, I’m thinking of practical gifts. Eddie has been wearing a Whoop since Christmas and hasn’t taken it off—he loves the simplicity and health tracking without the bulk of a smartwatch. I’m also ordering a few table/cooler bars for the patio. They’re so handy—functioning as a table and a cooler for drinks and snacks during long days outdoors.
WEARING
Have you switched to a sling bag for everyday use? I’ve been using an MZ Wallace sling since the fall and love how it stays out of the way while still holding essentials. A lightweight lululemon sling is another favorite—compact, comfortable and perfect for quick errands or walks.
LOVING
I recently tried Nightingale ice cream sandwiches after seeing them everywhere and they are excellent—rich, nostalgic and a big hit with Eddie. They’d make a fun Father’s Day treat for any ice cream sandwich fan.
SHARING
I posted a new reel this week featuring marinated grilled peppers with burrata—easy to prepare and full of flavor. It’s one of those simple recipes that feels elevated but takes almost no time.
PLANNING
Next week’s menu is coming together. It’s a short week because we have a little trip planned, so I’m leaning on my favorite summer side dishes to keep dinners easy, satisfying and full of seasonal produce.
CELEBRATING
We’re celebrating my baby’s first birthday this weekend—Jordan turns one and I can’t believe how quickly this year passed. It’s been an incredible year documenting his milestones; he’s the sweetest little chunk and I’m savoring every moment at this age.
