Simplicity is the key to truly enjoying the season. Meals are pared back, thrown-together and make the most of fresh, seasonal flavours
Summer, glorious summer. It’s the season many of us love most. From sunrise to sunset, we get to spend long days outside enjoying the fresh air and precious sunshine.
I can’t help but feel more sparky and upbeat in this season. Some people think you have to do extravagant activities to make the most of summer, but personally, I choose to enjoy the simple, everyday things. Here are a few ideas that might appeal to you.
1. Watch the sunrise
It might seem like a cliche, but one of the most beautiful ways to begin your summer day is to watch a sunrise. There’s something so humbling yet magnificent about witnessing a fresh, new day painted in the sky. Grab yourself a thermos of hot tea or coffee and a blanket to sit on. It’s the most fantastic way to experience the complexity and simplicity of life simultaneously.
2. Enjoy wasting time
There’s a quote that resonates with me: “Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time”. So often, we feel as if we need to fill our days with activities and things, yet slowing down and embracing laziness can be the best way to anchor ourselves in the present. Read a trashy romance novel or have a nap outside under a tree. Sometimes you have to waste time to make the most of it.
3. Sleep outdoors
Bedding down outside is possibly one of the easiest ways to refresh the soul. In a world that’s fast-paced and filled with electronic devices, unplugging and unwinding in nature might be just the thing you need. If you’re not able to get away, you can set up a tent in the backyard or simply snuggle into a sleeping bag under the stars.
4. Embrace no-cook recipes
If the thought of cooking over a hot stove makes you feel tired all over, I encourage you to try a handful of throw-together recipes that require no cooking. I’m all about taking a few good ingredients and tossing them together to create an unexpectedly delicious dish. This style of food prep is relaxed and carefree. Furthermore, it’s an opportunity to get creative with the season’s bounty.
Crushed berries with maple mascarpone and pistachios
SERVES 6
This elegant dessert is one of pure simplicity. Crushed and lightly sweetened strawberries are smothered in a luscious layer of whipped mascarpone, then covered in a blanket of ground pistachios. I love the contrast of layers and its bright, beautiful appearance. You’d never guess it only takes minutes to make.
INGREDIENTS
4 cups hulled strawberries, quartered (see note)
4 Tbsp pure maple syrup
500g mascarpone
100ml cream
1 cup ground pistachios
1 Place the berries in a large bowl along with 2 Tbsp of the maple syrup, then mash lightly until they start to release their juices. Tip into a serving dish and spread out evenly.
2 Next, whisk together the mascarpone, cream and remaining 2 Tbsp of maple syrup until smooth and creamy. Pour over the strawberries, then sprinkle over the pistachios.
3 Place in the fridge for a few hours to set.
Note: Four cups is about three punnets. You could use any fresh or frozen berries. If using frozen, simply thaw before using.
Quick corn salad with lime, avocado and coriander
SERVES 4 as a side, or 2 as a light meal
When you can get your hands on fresh sweetcorn, whip up this fresh salad. The zingy lime juice, chunks of creamy avocado and fresh coriander bring the whole salad alive. To me, this is the epitome of fuss-free, simple eating. It’s one for summer barbecues and beach picnics.
INGREDIENTS
2 avocados, diced
2 cups cooked corn kernels (from 3 corn cobs)
2 large handfuls of fresh coriander, finely sliced
½ head cauliflower, finely sliced
Juice of 1 lime
4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 Place all ingredients in a large bowl. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, then toss to combine.
Words and photography by: Eleanor Ozich.
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