Welcome to my ultimate summer Fridays roundup — a concise collection of the recipes, drinks, outfits, and small joys I’m loving right now. From easy weeknight meals to weekend entertaining ideas, everything below is practical, seasonal, and delicious.
EATING
High on my list are my summer carnitas tacos, a fresh pesto peach pizza, and a bright chicken tortellini pasta salad. These dishes are built for warm-weather entertaining: bold flavors, fresh produce, and simple techniques that let the ingredients shine.
DRINKING
For cooler summer evenings I’ve been reaching for a lambrusco smash, and on sunlit afternoons sorbet prosecco floats are my go-to. Both are easy to make and wonderfully refreshing — perfect for sipping while you cook or when friends stop by.
MAKING
I’ve been cooking a lot of one-skillet meals, including a summer garden skillet gnocchi that uses seasonal vegetables and herbs. Black bean tostadas are another favorite: quick to assemble, highly satisfying, and great for feeding a crowd.
BAKING
On the baking side, a tomato pie galette has been a revelation — rustic, savory, and full of summer tomatoes. I’m also enjoying an almond crumb cake that’s moist and just sweet enough for afternoon coffee.
CRAVING
I’ve had a persistent craving for a big pimento cheese BLT. It’s the perfect mix of creamy, salty, and crunchy — exactly what I reach for when I want something indulgent but not fussy.
GRILLING
Grilling season means garlic butter breadsticks and queso crunch hot dogs. Both are easy additions to a backyard meal and bring a fun, communal element to weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.
SNACKING
For snacks, I can’t get enough of a hot honey chili crunch dip and a simple peach bruschetta. They’re both quick to make and work well as appetizer bites for casual gatherings.
PREPPING
When I prep meals for the week, a big pot of sweet potato corn chowder has been invaluable. It stores well, reheats beautifully, and tastes like late-summer comfort.
LISTENING
In the kitchen I usually play my summer kitchen playlist — upbeat, warm, and perfect for cooking without overthinking the soundtrack.
READING
Recently I finished a gripping book titled Helpless. It was an intense, page-turning read that kept me thinking long after the last chapter.
WRITING
I’ve been sharing short travel tips and notes — practical ideas for low-stress trips that prioritize feeling refreshed over packing too much into every day.
LOVING
If you enjoy light skin scents, I loved the 11:11 perfume and recently tried a new 222 scent that’s warmer and more amber-forward. It’s great for transitioning into fall when you want something slightly richer but still wearable.
WEARING
I fell for the viral Ruti pants in a fall leopard print — they’re surprisingly versatile and easy to style. I also tested an Amazon dupe that worked well and is a more affordable option. These trousers pair effortlessly with tanks, sweaters, or sweatshirts for a simple, put-together look.
SHARING
I compiled 15 recipes to make before summer ends, highlighting fresh, seasonal dishes. I’ve also posted short recipe videos for summer stuffed shells, risotto-stuffed peppers, and marinated tomato BLTs on Instagram for quick inspiration.
SHOPPING
During the Gap friends and family sale I stocked up on fall essentials: blue utility pants, brown satin pants, and a few favorite sweaters, including a rollneck version. I also replaced several toiletry staples — a shower scarf, a thickening spray, a root boost, my go-to exfoliating pads (I use them every morning), and a highly recommended body cream that has thousands of positive reviews.
BUYING
I like supporting teachers by assembling small care packages. If you want an easy way to start the school year on a kind note, consider putting together a little basket of classroom supplies and thoughtful extras.
TRYING
I’ve been testing the Ninja Crispi air fryer and I’m hooked. Being able to watch food as it cooks makes timing and results feel more reliable, and it produces consistently crisp textures.
