With the Fourth of July tomorrow, there’s a good chance you’re headed to some picnics and barbecues. What better way to celebrate America’s birthday than with a local-produce-based party dish? And because it’s high berry season, there are tons of options available.
What’s in season?
Your most critical ingredient, blueberries, are just now in season. You can pick them in bulk for $2.69 a pound at Butler’s Orchard in Germantown (they freeze well if you want to get some extra), or stop at a nearby farmer’s market. Larriland Farm in Woodbine will open its blueberry fields on Independence Day.
Strawberries are a little past their prime, but watermelon is readily available. It’s also the middle of cherry and red raspberry season. The local white fruit outlook is a little bleak, as it’s early for both honeydew and apples. However, you can find them, or a good bunch of bananas, at a nearby grocery store instead.
What did you make?
I fed my sweet tooth with Pillsbury’s incredibly easy Patriotic Cookie Pizza, substituting cherries for raspberries and homemade sugar cookie dough for the premade version. (But you definitely don’t have to — I just couldn’t find the packaged dough at my grocery store.) It was the perfect blend of semi-healthy food and dessert. However, if I made it again, I would definitely stick with raspberries. Their brighter color makes for a more attractive pizza.
Berry close
What else can I make?
In a pinch, these fruit kabobs incorporating marshmallows are fantastic finger food. You can also try this Strawberry Blueberry Cloud Cake, if you want something more dessert-like. Need a fruit salad? There are loads of recipes available, whether you go traditional with a simple fruit blend or add a savory twist with feta cheese. Fill the bowl with banana or watermelon for cheap bulk if you’re on a budget, but don’t skimp on the blueberries!
