Many of you will embark on long-weekend jaunts today, eagerly celebrating the start of summer fun. I'm staying in Brooklyn, with thunderstorms in the forecast. (Hooray!) But I still plan on having friends over on the terrace to barbecue and sip fancy cocktails so we can imagine that we're actually relaxing on a beach or, better yet, a boat. Regardless of where you find yourself this weekend, here's some great grub to reign in the holiday spirit. Ditch the beef patties for these whole-grain ones. A mix of shallot, carrot, quinoa, feta, and kidney beans (great for added protein and heft), these vegetarian burgers are a refreshing departure from the typical portobello mushroom option.
Quinoa-Feta Burgers
Perfect for a picnic or cookout, this whole-wheat pesto pasta is easily adaptable with whatever seasonal vegetables you have hanging around.
Spinach Pesto with Whole-Wheat Pasta
You can throw more than meats on the grill! These greens take on a delicious char when simply drizzled with olive oil. And prepared polenta make easy (and gluten-free) croutons.
Grilled Salad
Crisps are one of the easiest desserts to make and--better yet--they're not as indulgent as you might think. They pack in hearty oats and lots of fruit (use whatever looks best at the green market) and about a quarter of the butter that a pie or cobbler calls for. This strawberry-rhubarb version is definitely making my weekend menu.
Strawberry-Rhubarb Crisp
A blend of sugar, cilantro, and lime juice, this seltzer spritzer is the perfect base for, ahem, tequila blanco. Cheers!
Cilantro Limeade
