Summer Supper.

I've been spending a lot of time out in our garden recently- watering, taking care of the various huge fruit trees, tending to the birds.  I realized this morning, as I sat out watching the sprinklers and squirrels, that I really wanted to have a fun, summery meal tonight with the hubbs.  Something along the lines of an Summer-in-Nantucket feast for two.  I've decided to go with the traditional crab cakes, corn on the cob and some some good ol' fashioned mash potatoes with roasted garlic.  Nothing too fancy, just a simple meal full of flavor and lip-smacking goodness.  I found this recipe on line quite some time ago and we love it... 

*Classic Summer Crab cakes* (courtesy of Bon Appetit Test kitchen)
1/4 cup of mayonnaise
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1/2 jalapeno, seeded, finely chopped
1 lb lump crab meat
1 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp finely chopped chives
1 tbsp sea salt
2 tbsp vegetable oil

Whisk first 7 ingredients in a medium bowl.  Add crab; fold to blend.  Stir in 3/4 cup panko, chives, salt, and pepper.  Divide into 6 equal portions.  Form each into 1" thick patties.  Refrigerate for at least ten minutes. 

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.  Place remaining half cup panko on a plate.  Coat cakes with panko.  Fry until golden brown and crisp, 3-4 minutes per side.  Serve immediately with a fresh lemon juice or nice lemon aioli.

I'm serving this tasty plate with fresh corn on the cob-  husked and steamed for 20 minutes to retain a slight bit of crunch.  Along with the corn, I"m taking some clarified butter and mixing in a little powdered cayenne pepper for a basting/drizzle once the corn is hot and ready.

We'll be having some farmer's market yukon gold potatoes, mashed with caramelized garlic, skins on.  A simple, classic favorite that goes with pretty much any dish.

Ok, there you have it.  Summer is in full-swing, we're gonna enjoy the last of the sunshine and our tasty dinner out on the patio with the Pug.  Hopefully a breeze will kick up soon and the house will cool down enough for us to sleep well, our tummies full and happy. 

Happy Almost Friday to all,
B