I finally found some rhubarb and the strawberries are looking red all the way up to their leaves now. It has been nothing but gloom around here, but there is no mistaking the uptick in produce and end of school vibes and how much work we have to get the backyard in shape for summer dinner parties. How did we get to mid May?! Speaking of berries, I have always loved this week's salad combination. The dressing is thick but not heavy. We have chicken buffalo burgers that could lean less spicy is needed for the kids, skip the blue cheese if you prefer. There is also a stir fry and some savory scones - a recipe that makes enough to enjoy and freeze or gift. I am brainstorming summer menus after your requests - huge responses for grilling things, more salad, light dishes, little to no oven time to avoid heating up the house, farm basket sorts of recipes. They are the sort of meals I want to eat this summer, but tricky to write inspiring recipes for. We'll come up with something :) I do love hearing from you and am always curious how your cooking changes seasonally. Until then, happy cooking to you!

Burger, Stir Fry and Scone recipes and photos by Ashlae Warner.