Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs

Bean salad is a simple, healthy dish that can be combined with any number of other things for a filling and cheap meal. Fresh summer herbs and some tasty garlic scapes compliment the simplicity of the beans. Serve over lettuce with chopped veggies for a filing salad or toss with quinoa or barley for a tasty side dish. Or top with some fresh grated parmesan cheese and serve with crusty bread.

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Thirsty Thursday: Festina Peche, My Favorite Summer Beer

Hey guys, since it's officially summer and the season for cookouts, beach parties and all kinds of fun, I thought I would start a new feature reviewing and discussing drinks of both the alcoholic and non-alcoholic variety.

My first pick is my favorite new beer. Festina Peche, brewed by Dogfish Head, is a Berliner Weisse style beer that is brewed with fresh peaches. This is actually the only domestic Berliner Weisse on the market right now. Traditionally brewed for summertime, fruit or fruit syrup is usually added to cut some of the tartness of the lactic acid bacteria that is used to ferment the yeast.

Generally I don't care for fruity beer, but I loved Festina Peche for three reasons. First, the peach flavor is very subtle and adds a slight sweetness and tang. Second, it has a nice clean taste and a dry, crisp finish. Finally, the style is light and refreshing and will not over power food. It has 4.5% ABV and pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled veggies, salads or light pasta dishes. It is both a sophisticated craft beer and something you can enjoy sitting on your porch.

What's your favorite summer drink? Beer? Cocktail? Lemonade? Let me know in the comments!

Wholesome Wednesday Links!

• Surprising heartburn triggers - Health.com
• More news that chocolate is good for you! - Epicurious
• New study shows sugary drinks increase junk food cravings - The Guardian
• Sunscreen guidelines from the FDA - WebMD

Chicken Sausage with Beans and Rabe

I got some great organic broccoli rabe from Sienna Farms and decided to make a warm and comforting dinner. Traditionally called manasta, this dish combines sausage, beans and some type of greens. It can be made with any combination of the three. While sometimes served over pasta or rice, I prefer to eat it with some hard, crusty bread. It's an incredible simple dish, that can be thrown together in less than 30 minutes. It's packed with protein, incredibly filling, and makes for a great leftover lunch.

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Snap Peas with Garlic and Bacon

Fresh snap peas are a delicious summer treat. This recipe is a simple way to dress up this tasty summer veggie. My friend Liz very generously gave me some fresh organic produce from Sienna Farms in Sudbury, Massachusetts, including some young garlic. Young garlic is a special treat. Available only for a few weeks each year, it is sweeter and has a more complex taste than traditional garlic. It has a slight purplish color and a you can actually eat the whole stalk. Regular fresh garlic will work fine in this recipe as well. Check out Sienna Farms at the Copley Farmer's Market on Tuesdays and Fridays or on the web at www.sienafarms.com.

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