Foods of Summer

Blueberry Month

July is National Blueberry Month. Head to your local farmers market or grocery store to pick up some of these flavorful berries. Blueberries are not only tasty but also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. For a creative blueberry dish, consider trying the “Blueberry Love” cookbook by Cynthia Graubart. If you are more adventurous, grow your own berries. Get inspiration from Homegrown berries: successfully grow your own strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and more by Barbara L. Bowling.

Blueberry Love
Homegrown Berries

Hot Dog Month

Blueberry Love

It’s also National Hot Dog Month in July! Enjoy this classic summer food while watching or playing baseball. What are your favorite toppings? Onions, chili, ketchup, or mustard? Don’t miss the 2025 Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4th in Coney Island, New York City. Last year’s champion devoured an impressive 58 hot dogs and buns in just ten minutes. How many do you think you could eat?

Ice Cream Month

My personal favorite food of summer is ice cream, and July is National Ice Cream Month! Visit your local ice cream parlor or try making your own. Easy no-churn ice cream by Heather Templeton provides a simple way to create your own ice cream with just a freezer and a stove. Another great ice-cream book is Salt and Straw Ice-Cream Cookbook by Tyer Malek. This book teaches you how to make a traditional ice-cream base, and then you add your own flavors, including Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, Roasted Strawberry, and Toasted White Chocolate.

Easy no-churn ice cream
Salt & Straw ice cream cookbook