This is the biggest summer Friday of the year — the one right before the 4th of July. What are you planning to enjoy this weekend?
EATING
My smash burgers are at the top of the list. I’ll also be making my grilled broccoli crunch salad — it’s unbelievably good — and a classic panzanella salad. These are all easy, crowd-pleasing summer dishes that pair perfectly with warm weather and backyard gatherings.
DRINKING
Fresh peach gin and tonics are a must. I’m also thinking about a lemonade froze for daytime sipping, and maybe an orange crush for something bright and citrusy.
MAKING
For nibbling, cantaloupe prosciutto skewers are simple and perfect. For dinner, I’ve been turning to a brown butter garden vegetable pasta skillet — a comforting, seasonal dish that highlights summer produce.
BAKING
Firecracker cupcakes are festive and fun: confetti cake topped with cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of pop rocks. And while not baking, a red, white, and blue party snack mix makes a great sweet-and-salty treat to leave out for guests.
CRAVING
Grilled peaches with lavender honey and whipped ricotta — such an irresistible combination of caramelized fruit, floral sweetness, and creamy tang.
READING
Our July book club pick is Party of Two. It’s a wonderful read; if you haven’t joined the book club yet, consider signing up. What are you reading right now?
WATCHING
Hamilton on Disney+ is on my watch list. It’s perfect for a watch party—planning to watch it with my mom today.
LISTENING
I’ve been listening to a 4th of July weekend playlist — upbeat, summery tunes that are great for cooking, chilling, or hosting.
WEARING
I love lightweight Rails shirts for summer. Their airy fabrics are great to throw on as the day cools off. A rainbow stripe top is my favorite this season, and metallic shell styles are fun and feminine for evenings out.
LOVING
I’m obsessed with a tan lines candle I discovered in Nantucket — it smells like summer and instantly brings beach memories to any room.
BUYING
I finally bought a set of lavender stemless wine glasses I’d been admiring. My goal is to collect lots of colored glassware and display it on white shelves — it brightens the kitchen and makes entertaining feel special.
SHARING
I shared a step-by-step for hot bacon Caprese on Instagram Stories — it’s a great, savory twist on a classic and perfect for summer gatherings.
xo