Here are my favorite summer Friday picks for eating, drinking, making, and more — all the small pleasures that make long, warm days feel special.
EATING
Simple, satisfying bites: easy tortilla pizzas topped with pepperoni and chickpeas, bright summer salmon tacos, and a comforting melted zucchini baked ziti. These are the kind of recipes you can throw together on a lazy afternoon or turn into a relaxed dinner with friends.
DRINKING
Celebrate fig season with a brown sugar fig bubbly — light, fizzy, and slightly sweet. It’s a refreshing choice for sipping on the porch or pairing with a summer cheese board.
MAKING
Chewy oatmeal zucchini cookies are my go-to when the garden is overflowing. They’re wholesome, soft, and a great way to use extra zucchini without standing over the stove for long.
BAKING
For weekend baking, I love a blueberry-peach coffee cake for morning gatherings and a rich chocolate zucchini cake when you want something a little indulgent but still seasonal.
CRAVING
I’m always craving a grilled corn and peach pizza — it’s savory, sweet, and smoky all at once. Tiny peach hand pies are another favorite for portable summertime treats.
SNACKING
Goat cheese–stuffed figs are the ultimate easy snack. They’re elegant enough for guests but quick enough for a solo nibble with a cold drink.
GRILLING
Summer crostini with whipped roasted garlic goat cheese is a classic for backyard gatherings. I also love a grilled halloumi and peach salad for a salty, sweet, and smoky plate that highlights seasonal fruit.
LISTENING
On repeat: the best of Taylor Swift — perfect for celebratory moods and long drives during the season.
READING
Currently enjoying a new memoir that’s easy to get lost in during quiet afternoons. It’s a good companion for porch time and slow mornings.
WRITING
I publish a weekly Substack featuring recipes, short essays, and seasonal ideas. It feels like old-school blogging with a modern twist — you can subscribe for both free and paid content depending on how deep you want to dive.
LOVING
I have a weakness for platform sneakers—this dark green suede pair is a recent favorite. Also, the prequel half-and-half moisturizer is worth trying if you want a lightweight, hydrating option for summer skin.
SHARING
Two thoughtfully curated lists I love right now: one with 85 easy back-to-school dinners and another with 15 must-make recipes to enjoy before summer ends. Both are full of practical, delicious ideas.
SHOPPING
Some seasonal wardrobe pieces I’m reaching for: a lightweight long-sleeve shrug for cooler evenings, a smocked jumpsuit that’s effortless and flattering, and a denim shirt jacket that’s perfect for early fall layering.
WEARING
My favorite dress this season is a handkerchief-hem midi — breezy and elegant. I also wear a cozy Diet Coke sweatshirt that always sparks conversations when I’m out and about.
RECOMMENDING
For a thoughtful take on personal style and generational fashion, there’s an excellent essay about why many people keep dressing authentically on their own terms. It’s an uplifting read if you’re into style and culture.
