I have really been off my cooking game this summer.  It’s just been so darn hot.  The last thing I want to do at the end of the day is slave over a hot stove or have the oven heat the house up any more.  You know?!

Honey grilled the chicken while I made the sides.  It was light, simple, and everyone enjoyed it!  Besides, summer was practically made for veggies like corn and tomatoes.

Roasted Tomatoes

Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics; serves 4-5

12 plum tomatoes, halved lengthwise, cores and seeds removed
4 tablespoons good olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 large garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons sugar
1 ½ teaspoons kosher Salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 large fresh basil leaves, julienned

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees (make sure it’s clean!).  Arrange the tomatoes on a sheet pan, cut sides up, in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle the garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper over the tomatoes. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until the tomatoes are concentrated and beginning to caramelize. Top with basil. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Confetti Corn

Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics; serves 6

2 tablespoons good olive oil (I cut back on the oil to only 1tbsp)
½ cup chopped red onion
1 small orange bell pepper, ½-inch diced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Kernels cut from 5 ears yellow or white corn (4 cups)
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons julienned fresh basil, minced fresh chives, and/or minced fresh parsley

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large sauté pan. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until the onion is soft. Stir in the bell pepper and sauté for 2 more minutes.

Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Over medium heat, add the corn, salt, and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes, until the corn just loses its starchiness. Season to taste, gently stir in the basil or other green herbs, and serve hot.

With school on the horizon, I’ve already started trying to prepare myself to get back into the swing of good meals and early bed times.  Where did the time go?!  And, speaking of school, I am astonished by all of your stories of tough times with teachers.  I am saddened that it is so common.  On the very bright side, we had the opportunity to meet his fourth grade teacher already and I feel confident for a great year ahead!!!!

xoxo

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