July Seasonal Menu

Salted Watermelon Elixir, Prosciutto Melon Crostini, Summer Squash Lasagna, Peach & Strawberry Cobbler Ice Cream

Hey gorgeous gals & pals — welcome to July’s seasonal menu where I am highlighting some of my favorite July in season produce!!

Dare I say this is my…..favorite menu yet.

• Bev: Salted Watermelon Elixir

• Appetizer: Prosciutto Melon Crostini

• Entree: Summer Squash Lasagna

• Dessert: Peach & Strawberry Cobbler Ice Cream

This summer I have found myself gravitating towards all of the shades of pink, red and orange. Watermelon, berries, tomatoes, cantaloupe, cherries, peaches, peppers & more….

The beautiful thing about nature is it provides us with what we need, when we need it. Certain produce thrives in different seasons for a reason. In summer we are provided with extra hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, melon, zucchini and fruits to quench our thirst in the heat. We also see more shades of red, pink and orange — which can be rich in antioxidants like carotenoids, lycopene, vitamin C and polyphenols that help to protect against UV and free radical damage and repair cells.

Through seasonal eating, we not only align ourselves more with the rhythm of nature, therefore benefitting us, but in parallel seasonal eating benefits nature. Eating local and seasonal food in season can help to support biodiversity, whereas the mass growing of crops outside of their season can be damaging for the environment.

I’ve experienced incredible benefits from focusing on eating seasonally whenever possible. This practice has helped me reconnect with indigenous ways of living and ancestral traditions that emphasize the importance of community, sustainability, respect for nature, and a deeper connection with the Earth. What started as a simple shift in how I eat has led to profound positive changes in my life.

My hope in making these seasonal menus is to provide the same inspiration to you!

So with that being said, let’s get intoooo ittt…..

Salted Watermelon Elixir

*makes 2*

Ingredients

• 1/2 small watermelon

• 1 tsp mineral salt

• 1 tbsp raw honey

• Ice

Recipe

1. Chop watermelon and blend the inside fruit until pureed

2. Strain through a cheese cloth or mesh strainer to separate any pulp/make juice smoother

3. Blend remaining juice together with salt, honey and water

4. Serve over ice with a slice of watermelon!

Prosciutto Melon Crostini

*makes about 20 crostinis*

Ingredients