Summer Is Underway: My Top 5 Pantry Essentials from the Preserve Company
We got home last Sunday from an incredible eight day trip to British Columbia, and I came back with exactly the feeling I was hoping for. Inspired to get back in the kitchen, inspired to try some new recipes at home, and inspired to write more too. Turns out that’s exactly what happened the moment we walked through the door.
I spent a good part of a Monday afternoon this week meal prepping and planning so we weren’t eating out every night. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good restaurant meal, and BC has some of the best I’ve ever had. But after eight days of eating out for every single meal, cooking at home again felt so good. So today I’m digging into my pantry to share my top five summer staples from the Preserve Company, the things I reach for again and again all season long.
Mango Garlic Dressing
This one makes the most amazing taco slaw. Get a package of coleslaw mix, this amazing dressing, add a little lime zest, a squeeze of fresh lime, some chopped cilantro, and a dash of chili pepper flakes, and you have something truly delicious on fish tacos or beef barbacoa tacos. (I made the barbacoa version earlier this week and it did not disappoint.)
A Good Preserve for Dressings
My favourite changes almost daily, but this time of year I love reaching for our blueberry or raspberry. One of my go to salads right now is arugula, sliced green onion, candied pecans, fresh berries and a vinaigrette made from our Raspberry Blueberry Champagne Preserve. Simple, fresh, and it feels like summer on a plate.
BBQ Rub and Hickory Maple Barbecue Sauce
With Adam and our Kamado Joe smoker always fired up, this one is non negotiable in our house. The rub works beautifully on anything hitting the grill or smoker, and the Hickory Maple Barbecue Sauce is just as good for grilling as it is for marinating ahead of time.
Biscuit and Scone Mix
It’s shortcake season, and it’s also the season for slow Sunday mornings with warm scones and clotted cream. This mix covers both beautifully and takes almost no effort.
Cherry Salsa and Cranberry Pepper Boursin
I feel like a broken record with this one - This combination is my go to for those “someone just dropped by” moments. It comes together in under a minute and always looks like you planned it.
And a little bonus for you, because I couldn’t resist. A gin smash with a spoonful of berry preserve muddled with some fresh basil is one of my favourite ways to end a summer day.
That’s what’s living in my pantry right now. What’s in yours this summer?
Lots of love,
Marsha
