So many of our fondest memories, especially in the South, revolve around food. Food is what draws people together and provides the ground for storytelling, conversation, and laughter. Around the table, we enjoy sweet fellowship with those we love and build relationships that will survive generations. The South, as we all know, is famous for great food, and in my unprejudiced opinion, southern cuisine shines brightest in the summertime. From cookouts and picnics to family reunions and Sunday dinner, here is a comprehensive list of some of my favorite summertime selections.
1. Homemade Peach Ice Cream (or any flavor, for that matter)
Synonymous with the Wood name is the love of ice cream. At our family reunions or most any gathering during the summertime, one can expect to hear the sound of an electric ice cream churn whirring in the background. We always fill our cups to the brim for an oh-so-refreshing summer treat
2. Garden Tomato Sandwiches (with Duke’s mayonnaise, of course)
Any true Southerner can attest to the fact that nothing beats a garden tomato, fresh from the garden. Simply place a few tomato slices between bread with Duke’s mayonnaise on either side and season with salt and pepper for a quick and tasty lunch.
3. Homemade Berry Cobbler
Blackberry is my favorite, but any berry will do. The recipe is super simple and the result is phenomenal. The sweetness of the sugar complements the tartness of the berries. Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the full effect!
4. Freshly sliced watermelon
Few things are more refreshing after a day in the sun than a slice of cold watermelon. A fun way to cool the melon down and spice things up a bit is to drop it in the pool for a nice chilling effect (just don’t bust it on the pavement!)
5. Shrimp and grits
If you ever find yourself at one of the islands near Charleston, SC, make your way to Sullivan’s Restaurant. The fried (or creamy) grits topped with shrimp never disappoint. Covered in gravy with a wedge of country ham on the bottom, this dish has southern written all over it.
6. Fried green tomatoes
Anything tastes good fried and vegetables are no exception. Fried green tomatoes are always a treat and dipping them in homemade ranch dressing makes them all the better.
7. Fresh seafood
Fried, blackened, or grilled, seafood is simply divine (especially if you know who caught it!). Thanks, Daddy!
8. Vine-ripened Blackberries
These delicious berries peak right around the 4th of July and it is so satisfying to eat these straight off the vine in the sweltering heat. Always be sure to save enough for a cobbler!
9. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-a suits me in any season, but something about the summer reminds me of all the chicken nuggets and ice dreams the fueled our summer adventures. The founder of this beloved southern chain said it best, “Food is essential to life; therefore, make it good.” (S. Truett Cathy)
10. Grilled Steak
Nothing says summer more than firing up the grill for a cookout. Grilled steak brings to mind poolside cookouts and making memories with family friends.
11) Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey
What they lack in nutritional value, they make up for in taste! Having a homemade biscuit topped with honey is a staple for a complete summer experience!
12) Mexican Cokes
To me, the nostalgic glass bottles bring me back to my childhood. To this day, we still put peanuts in our coke bottles at family get-togethers! Coca-Cola in a glass bottle also brings me back to my mission trip to Belize last where the coke (and everything else) just seemed to taste better!
Embrace your inner Paula Deen and gather for fellowship around one of your favorite summertime dishes.
What is your favorite summertime meal? Feel free to share in the comments below.