Hooray for June! The sun is shining, and I look forward to fun summertime activities with Grace. I’ve been brainstorming recipes for summer produce (my favorite) and working on our garden. We planted black raspberries a couple of years ago, and they’re starting to yield some berries!
This month, seasonal produce options are expanding to include fresh fruit like blueberries, strawberries, rhubarb and cherries. I think I’ll make a crisp soon. The only question is which kind—blueberry, mixed berry or strawberry rhubarb? Asparagus and spring peas are on their way out, so get your fill of them while you can.
Avocado
Creamy Avocado Dip
Gluten free and vegan
“Another dinner success! This was surprisingly tasty. I honestly passed this up thinking “eh” but then my friends had a fiesta dinner and I was dying for an excuse not to eat their steak or ground beef tacos so I made the refried beans for my tacos. Tonight I made the avocado sauce and pickled onions with it….YUM. And super easy!!” – Erin
Beets
Colorful Beet Salad with Carrot, Quinoa & Spinach
Gluten free and vegan
“This could be THE best salad I have ever made. I have a vegan friend who I am always trying to find interesting recipes for and she also loved it. I made it exactly as per your recipe apart from adding a mixture of toasted almond flakes and pumpkins seeds.” – Heather
Blueberries
Blueberry Almond Crisp
Gluten free and easily vegan (see recipe notes)
“This was delicious, served with vanilla ice cream and topped leftovers with some plain yogurt. Such a simple dessert!” – Lindsay
Cherries
Cherry Couscous & Arugula Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Easily gluten free and easily vegan (see recipe notes)
“Just had this for dinner and it was just as amazing as it looked!” – Kate
Cucumber
Gaby’s Cucumber Salad
Gluten free and vegan
“Made this immediately last night and loved it – my daughter as well! Quick and easy for when you get home from work – served alongside pasta.” – Connie
Green Beans
Green Bean Salad with Toasted Almonds & Feta
Gluten free and easily vegan (skip the feta)
“Incredible! Made this last night and absolutely loved it – it was so fresh, easy to prepare, and satisfying. I served it warm and the combo of tart lemon, crunchy almonds, and salty feta was spot on. This one is definitely going into my weekly rotation – thanks for another winner, Kate!” – Sarah
Greens
Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach and Quinoa Salad
Gluten free and vegan
“Another awesome recipe! I made this the other day and loved it. The next had some left overs so had a avocado I needed to eat so I cut it up and threw it on top and wow! This is going to be on my favorite list for sure.” – Christine
More spinach recipes » (also arugula)
Herbs
Classic Pesto
Gluten free and easily vegan
“Got a big bunch of basil from my farm co-op, so I made this yesterday from your cookbook, and froze it in an ice-cube tray. Now I have delicious little pesto cubes to add to soup, roasted veggies, and probably everything else! Today I’m going to try the same with leftover cilantro, parsley, maybe some arugula, and toasted pepitas.” – Jeanne
More basil recipes » (also cilantro and dill)
Kale
Anything-Goes Kale Salad with Green Tahini Dressing
Gluten free and vegan
“I made your “Everything goes Kale Salad with Green Tahini Dressing” last night for my daughter’s 25th birthday. I have never toasted pepitas before – and my daughters loved them! Both my daughters asked for your recipe -The salad looked beautiful and tasted delicious…” – Peg
Mango
Fresh Mango Salsa
Gluten free and vegan
“This summer brought a bumper crop of mango to our Florida home, and I found this recipe online. Perfect for a women’s luncheon I was invited to. It was simple to make, looked beautiful and was delicious. Nearly every guest asked me for the recipe. I will definitely make this again.” – Vicky
Radishes
Almond-Sesame Soba Zoodles with Quick-Pickled Veggies
Easily gluten free and easily vegan
“This was such a quick and easy meal to make! The pickles really balance the sauce and the noodles – and the sauce is so delicious. Thank you for sharing this recipe!” – Maya
Rhubarb
Almond Cake with Roasted Strawberries & Rhubarb
Gluten free
“I have made this cake 3 times now. Once with apple, raspberry and rhubarb. Twice with strawberrys and rhubarb. It’s so simple. I have all the ingredients in my cupboard and it whips up in minutes so I can throw it together between preparing the main meal and surprise everyone. A great insight Kate to do the fruit separate. It means I can keep it for a few days and just top it as I like. The flavour is delicate and lovely. I have shared with many of my friends.” – Molly
Strawberries
Colorful Strawberry Arugula Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Gluten free and easily vegan
“I did not believe it was possible to crave a salad until I ate this! It’s the BEST salad in the whole world, hands down. The dressing is also perfection!” – Rebecca B.
Don’t forget to tag your recipe photos #cookieandkate so we can all see them! If you’re looking for an ingredient that didn’t make the list, check my new ingredient index for relevant recipes.
More resources you might appreciate: 13 make-ahead breakfast recipes, 16 recipes that pack well for lunch and 20 simple weeknight dinners. You can shop my essential kitchen equipment here. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for a steady stream of recipe inspiration!
Vegetable enthusiast. Dog lover. I'm probably making a big mess in my Kansas City kitchen right now. 
Kari
The blueberries & cherries out there look so amazing right now!!!
minerva
Kate,
I love these recipes and the photos! Thank you. I am a vegetarian and photography enthusiast too, but I am not a fanatic one when it comes to eating animal products. If I am stuck somewhere and have no other option except eating meat, I guess I would do that. I needed at least 15lb to add on after an illness. Your recipes helped me tremendously. Thanks again.
Kate
Hi Minerva, thank you for your note. I’m so glad to hear that my recipes have helped your recovery. Hope you are feeling well!
Cassie
June is an INCREDIBLE month for recipes! I am so excited to start cooking a lot more cooling meals like salads, smoothies and raw desserts! Bring on the avocados, kale and cucumber!
Kate
Me too, me too! I’m probably most excited about fresh berries.
Arianna
Avocado avocado avocado <3
There are so many interesting ideas in this post! I so going to try the quinoa salad because, I have to admit it, I never tried it and I am so curious!
Kate
Quinoa is so great in salad! I hope you enjoy it.
Heather @ Simple Fresh Natural
Oh my goodness! Each recipe on here looks delicious! I can’t decide what to make first! I love how you are celebrating fresh, seasonal ingredients!
Much love,
Heather
Kate
Thank you, Heather! :)
Odessa
The best season for produce! Love these posts, they’re super helpful for eating in season :) I don’t know which recipe to try first!
Kate
Thanks, Odessa!
jennifer irizarry
It is BERYY season!! At last! My fruit pies get a proper fresh fruit filling. <3 I just made a Blackberry Lemon Thyme Pie a few days ago and it was DIVINE… I think I will try your recipe for gluten free rhubarb cake. It looks amazing and I love creative ways to use rhubarb! Thank you!
Rachel
I have been following you for YEARS! Your recipes are staples of my kitchen. I am pretty behind the 8 ball and just recently got Instagram :) but I have never thought to tag photos your recipes! I am excited to try it out. Thank you os much for taking them time to create such amazing meals and sharing them with all of us! :) <3
Kate
Hey Rachel! I wish I could give you a hug for following all these years! I appreciate your support. I just love looking at my #cookieandkate feed. Hope to see your C+K recipes there soon!
Emilie @ Emilie Eats
Oh, that cherry couscous salad looks amazing! The cherries have been looking sooo delicious at the grocery store.
Lin
Your cookbook is indeed in my kitchen as of yesterday. I went to my favorite independent bookstore to check out the book and walked out the door with it – at full price!! Actually I thought I wouldn’t need to buy it as I enjoy so much from your blog but the recipe choices in it are fantastic and I couldn’t leave it behind. All this to say, thank you and well done!
Kate
Wonderful! I’m so happy you decided to take it home. Have fun!
Di Hill
I absolutely love your recipes Kate, you are an inspiration. Being Vegan,I am always looking for different things to make. I am in Australia so you are in summer and we are in winter but I will just modify and make your beautiful recipes good for Winter.
Have a fabulous day
Di Hill
Kate
Hi, Di! Thank you so much for the kind words. I hope you check out my seasonal winter recipes, too! Wishing you warmth. :)
TeriAnn Peri
Just received my copy of your cookbook and it is beautiful. The photos are amazing.
Congratulations.
Sarah
Thank you so much for sharing the article on lectins. I have been losing my mind seeing so many bloggers talking about this topic thanks to The Plant Paradox. Anti-nutrients aren’t anything new and the last time I checked, the people eating the most whole grains, legumes and vegetables are pretty freaking healthy. Unlike the majority of Americans eating refined grains, processed foods and lots of animal protein.
The answer is simple: eat real whole foods, mostly plants. Like your recipes. ;)
Also eating organic is super important because glyphosate has been shown to wreak havoc on our gut health which can cause digestive issues, especially with high fiber foods. I think the lack of healthy bacteria from pesticides, harsh cleansers and antibiotics is the larger issue to be concerned about.
We need to stop confusing people with all of this trendy propaganda and simply help make it easier for society to adopt an overall healthy lifestyle. Okay, end rant! :)
Kate
I’m so glad you enjoyed that article, Sarah! I found it super helpful, too. One of my favorite books on gut health is called “Follow Your Gut” and makes a lot of the same points you just did- I think you’d enjoy it. :)
Evelyn
Love the link roundup! Serious Eats is an amazing website, I love the science side of cooking, and it’s always so interesting to see the myths surrounding cooking being thoroughly tested. My cooking surely improved by understanding something of the science (like salting the water thoroughly when cooking something), and made things much easier, too (like washing mushrooms since they’re full of water anyway, and don’t soak up a significant amount of water when running them under the tap).
And I’m so happy it’s June already and all the fresh produce is available! I’ve made your summer pasta salad many times, it’s a great addition to any barbecue and the bowl is always polished off, even though I’m often the only vegetarian.
On an entirely different note, I was planning on making a poke bowl tonight (with tofu instead of fish), but I found that none of my go-to recipe blogs have a poke bowl on the blog. I am now using your sushi bowl as a base (since that one is delicious) and going from there, but I was wondering if it’s something you could consider developing for the blog?
Kate
Hey, Evelyn! Yes, I definitely understand needing science and facts to back up your cooking. It’s made me more confident in the kitchen, and less susceptible to the trends that come and go. And I’ll absolutely add a vegetarian poke bowl to my suggestions list– be on the lookout for it!
Katherine
I’m so excited about the fresh berries this month. Especially cherries, as they are usually so expensive here. Your blueberry almond crisp looks incredible!
Kate
I love cherry season, too! So rare to find them in the store, so when I do, I can’t help myself from picking up a bag. I think you’d love the blueberry almond crisp!
Katherine
Yep. It’s like a cherry magnet. My cart just starts going over there. :D
Breann Nash
I am a new follower and I made your peanut butter chocolate chip cookies today and WOW!! Your book also hit my doorstep this morning and it’s beautiful.
Kate
Awesome! I’m so glad you loved it, Breann. I hope you love the book! Let me know which recipes you try.
Caroline
Is it weird to be so proud of you and never have met? I’ve loved cooking off your blog and now out of Love Real Food (I made the southwestern roasted veggie salad yesterday – delicious!) and I’m even more touched by the fact that you saved someone’s life through stem cell donation. Keep being awesome!
Kate
Nah, not weird! Thank you so much, Caroline! :)
Paul
I was saying “yum” to eat of these as I was scrolling down the page, haha. Awesome selection Kate! Very happy to find your blog this morning. It’s a cold, wet, Monday morning here in the UK. Speak again soon! Paul :)
Kate
Thanks, Paul! I hope you try some of them. Sending warm, sunny vibes your way!
Anja Lassen
These recipes and the photos looks amazing! Thank you. Rhubarb was delicious!
Kate
Thanks, Anja! I love rhubarb, too– it’s such a special summer treat.
Giselle
I like your cookbook updates. When I make my weekly store list I am away from my cookbooks so I like to pin recipes from my cookbooks so that I know what ingredients to add to my store list. So thank you for the updates. They are helpful!
Kate
You’re welcome, Giselle! I’m glad these prove so useful.
Mark
re: “Don’t Soak Your Dried Beans! Hallelujah.”
Good article, but here is one on topic by The World’s Healthiest Foods:
http://whfoods.org/genpage.php?tname=dailytip&dbid=34
The only significant difference noted from WHFoods is heat exposure. Pre-soaked beans use less heat to cook and allow for better nutritional value. ***WHFoods is my whole foods/nutrition guru.
Kate
Thanks for the info, Mark!
Cassie
Ooh, I love ALL of these fresh fruits and vegetables. I know this doesn’t appear on the list, but I love sweet potatoes and bananas during the summer as well!
Kate
Yes, me, too! These ones on the list are all freshly available from local sources.
Amy
I’ve been a huge fan of your blog, although I’m not vegan or vegetarian, I love your recipes, I got your book and love it!! And that story your friend Bill wrote had me teary eyes. I’m so touched by your open heart. xoxo
Kate
Aw, thank you, Amy! I so appreciate that. I’m glad you love the book, too!
Brittany Audra @ Audra's Appetite
So excited for all the fresh produce in season this months! Especially when I can use some straight from my garden! :)
Kate
I agree!
Kari
My local cafe just started serving up Oat Milk. I’ll have to check it out next time.
Kari
Kate
Let me know what you think!
Diana holtham
Love you our natural vegetarian recipes but I would love if you post me few for teenager at school would love
Kate
Have you tried any of my muffin, taco or soup recipes? I know those have been a hit with kids and teenagers in the past!
Robyn
I love these monthly posts, Kate! Thank you so much for doing them!
Kate
I love that you love them! I will keep them coming, Robyn.
Cassie Autumn Tran
Yay for salad season! Kale, avocado, cucumber, herbs, greens, strawberries, and blueberries are the best!
Kate
Agree, on all accounts!
Phil
Hi there can’t wait to try these recipes especially the strawberry salad! Looks yummy ! Congratulations on your wedding Much happiness and joy to both of you
Thanks
Phil
Kate
Thank you, Phi! :)
Janet Horwith
Congratulations to you, beautiful couple!! Many bright blessings and wishes for a perfect, peaceful and fantastic life! Love to darling Cookie!! XO
Kate
Thank you! :)
Amanda Martignetti
Congratulations!! So happy for you!
Kate
Thank you!! :)
Molly McMahon
Oooh, that avocado dip looks delicious! Congrats on getting married too! I usually have homemade guacamole with quesadillas but I might try that dip instead.
Kate
Thanks, Molly! We are pretty excited.
Monica
Congratulations!!! So happy for you! I just got back from my honeymoon in Paris and Barcelona :) Such a special time.
Kate
Thank you! Congratulations to you, too. That sounds like an amazing honeymoon, Monica.
Sasha
OMG! Many congratulations! You look stunning, and both of you look so happy. Here’s to many years of married bliss ahead!
Kate
Thank you, Sasha! You’re so kind.
Bea6
Congratulations! You both look so happy! Enjoy the many adventures together ahead! Cheers!
Kate
Thank you! We are pretty excited.
Julia
Kate, you are such an inspiration! I never thought I could rustle a gorg meal till I stumbled upon your post on Insta. Now, I am a religious follower. Keep them coming !!!
Julia from London
Kate
Thank you!
Julia
Kate, you are such an inspiration! I never thought I could rustle a gorg meal till I stumbled upon your post on Insta. Now, I am a religious follower. Keep them coming !!!
And of course HUGE congratulations!!!
Julia from London
Kate
Thank you on all fronts, Julia! I really appreciate it.
Cassie Autumn Tran
I love all these ingredients–cherries, strawberries, blueberries, cucumber, kale, greens, ah, all the most amazing produce!
Kate
Thank you, Cassie!
Di
Dear Kate, I love your blog and find your recipes and photos amazing and inspiring! Looking forward to giving many of these a try.
Thank you, Di
Ps Congratulations on your nuptials!!
Kate
You’re sweet! I’m glad you love the recipes. Thank you! We are pretty excited.
Danica
You look so beautiful and happy in your wedding pics! Congratulations!!!!
Kate
Thank you, Danica!
Courtney
Congratulations, Kate! I came for farmer’s market shop inspiration and audibly exclaimed when I saw the wedding news! Beautiful pictures and hope the honeymoon was wonderful.
Kate
Thank you, Courtney!! :)
S. J. Pajonas
I see lots of delicious things to eat! But also congratulations on your recent nuptials! Enjoy your honeymoon!
Oksana
Thank you for making a statement and posting resources to help white people be allies. I am a big fan of your blog and it is the first resource I go to for cooking/baking needs, and respect to you for encouraging your readers to do some reflection and self-educating at the personal level. Much love and wishing you health and safety during this time.
Kate
Thank you, Oksana! I’m trying to do my part, although I know I have more work to do. I hope you find some recipes this month you can enjoy!
Terry
Thanks Kate! I am a new vegan and I love your recipes. Also as a white person working on my in-bred bias, I highly recommend “White Fragility” by Robin DiAngelo.
Kate
Thank you for your suggestion, Terry!
Diana
Thanks for your voice in defense of George Floyd. Robin Diangelo’s White Fragility is an excellent read. And thanks gif the nourishment—on all counts. Nose licks from my pack to yours.
Diana
Kate
Several have recommended that book, I will need to add it to my growing list. Thank you for sharing, Diana! I appreciate your support.
Marilyn Mullen
Thank you for all you write in acknowledgement of Black lives mattering and the resources you share because, just as you say, hoping for change is not enough. You mention Ibram X. Kendi – Brene Brown recently did a podcast with him that was both tender and edifying – recommended.
Like many, I too have been following you for years, open every email, have bought a few copies of your book as gifts, and make your recipes most days. I’ve long wanted to post my gratitude, but am also an introvert who’s often found in her quarter-acre organic garden of veggies, flowers, herbs and berries (with my own canine companion, Brodie :). Wishing you all the best, Kate.
Kate
You’re so sweet, Marilyn! It’s important I do my part and I have more to do. I’m happy you have been enjoying my recipes over the years. :)
Marianne Rameau
Dear Kate,
I love your recipes and really appreciate your reflections at the beginning of this post, about how you have been educating yourself about Black Lives Matter; I am a white skinned European woman and this has been the issue foremost on my mind, heart and consciousness – racial inequality and white arrogance, silence and dissociation is not just an American problem but pretty universal. I found the Ava DuVernay documentary called “13th”, available on Netflix, extremely educational. I sincerely hope and pray that this time it WILL be different and enough people have woken up to the facts to change the future to a more inclusive one. Much work to be done! It all starts with getting educated…and speaking up.
Kate
Thank you for sharing, Marianne! I will add that to my list, others have recommended it too.
Linda Baldwin
I love ya girl, love your recipes and especially love where you stand on all the pain in our world…..
Kate
Thank you for your support, Linda!
Nita
I always love your recipes – manageable to make and reliably delicious. But I want to thank you for your commentary at the beginning of this post and the links to helping us, and ultimately this country, move beyond in a positive way. We have much work to do, but every time I see some comment or connection that acknowledges the validity of the situation, I am heartened. Thank you…and keep on cookin’
Kate
Thank you, Nita!
Dottie Eddis
Hi Kate,
Thanks for the resources on protests and racism. I’m sure they will make good reading. Looking forward to trying some of these recipes, too!
Kate
Hi Dottie, I appreciate your kind comment! I hope you enjoy the readings and recipes.
Sharon Greaves
Hi Kate,
I’ve happened upon your blog several times while searching for recipes. I have made a few and they are delicious!
I just subscribed and was impressed and encouraged to see that you used this moment in time to point us to Black Lives Matter and important black authors who can educate and enlighten us on inequity in our society! Thank you for using your voice to lift us all up.
Like you, I want to better educate myself and am grateful for books, articles, and podcasts that teach us and will hopefully lead us forward in a fight for change. May I recommend a wonderful podcast series, Scene on Radio: Seeing White. Dr. Ibram Kendi is interviewed along with other black scholars.
Thank you for sharing food that nourishes both our bodies and minds!
Sincerely,
Sharon
Kate
Thank you for sharing, Sharon!
Alison
Hi Kate – long time listener, first time caller. Thank you for really taking time to care of this community (from easy, pantry staple recipes during the height of the lock down/shortages to how you’re addressing Black lives matter). The number of bloggers/lifestyle sites that I’ve un-followed has grown dramatically over the past few weeks, but I’m happy to still be here.
Are there any Black vegetarian or vegan cookbooks that you recommend? It would be great to see you share the mic
Kate
Hi Alison! That’s a great question. I’ve just ordered Bryant Terry’s books, Afro-Vegan and Vegetable Kingdom, as well as Sweet Potato Soul by Jenne Claiborn of sweetpotatosoul.com. I’m really looking forward to those. I also love seeing the beautiful treats made by @grandbabycakes and @chocolateforbasil on Instagram, though I haven’t had to chance to make any yet! @marisamoore’s recipes are definitely on the healthier side, though not entirely vegan/vegetarian. Hope that’s a start! I’m looking for more accounts to follow. :)
Launa
Hi, Kate, thanks for acknowledging our country’s racial pain and need for change. You mentioned a couple of books I’ll be adding to my reading list–thank you. And, just wanted to say that my family has been vegetarian for 2 years now, and we love it. A huge part of our success is your blog and cookbook. There are only a few recipes left in your cookbook we haven’t yet tried, and each one has been good. Thanks for sharing your creativity and know-how.
Kate
Hi Launa, I’m happy to share where I am at and what I have found helpful! I hope they will be helpful to you as well. I’m so happy you have been enjoying my recipes! I appreciate your support.
Lisa Ellsmore
Hi Kate, I haven’t been reading much lately, but here are some great interviews by members of the black community. Civil rights veteran Bob Woodson in an interview on American Thought Leaders: https://www.theepochtimes.com/how-the-tragic-killing-of-george-floyd-has-been-exploited-bob-woodson_3379519.html
Larry Elder and Ben Carson on George Floyd’s death on the Larry Elder show: https://www.larryelder.com/video/larry-elder-ben-carson-on-george-floyds-death/
Candace Owens, a political activist, on George Floyd’s death: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtPfoEvNJ74 She also has a book “Blackout”
Hope you find these informative! Thanks for your posts and great recipes!
Kate
Thank you for sharing your resources, Lisa! I really appreciate it.
Catlin
Hey,
I love these recipes and the photos! Thank you. I am a vegetarian and photography enthusiast too, but I am not a fanatic one when it comes to eating animal products. If I am stuck somewhere and have no other option except eating meat, I guess I would do that. I needed at least 15lb to add on after an illness. Your recipes helped me tremendously. Thanks again.
Kate
I’m happy you are loving my recipes and are feeling better! I hope you find something new this month you can enjoy, Catlin.
Anne Vrana
Dear Kate, I go to your site for great recipes and cooking tips which I really appreciate and often use. I am therefore disappointed that in your June issue you have made your blog political. I will thereby take the opportunity to suggest Dave Rubin and Candace Owens, two among the many voices who present a balanced perspective on many issues in the USA and globally. Thank you,and have a wonderful food inspired day. Anne from Montreal, Canada
Kate
Hi Anne, my content is generally apolitical. This situation is a matter of human rights, which falls outside of politics in my opinion.
Maureen McLennon
Hi Anne,
What you fail to see is that racism and the choice to be anti-racist is apolitical. ANYONE, regardless of political party, can and SHOULD choose every day to become anti-racist.
This is not a political issue. It Is a question of judgment and JUSTICE.
Please consider listening to this podcast for a fantastic explanation that may clarify the situation. https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-with-ibram-x-kendi-on-how-to-be-an-antiracist/
Libby
I agree, great suggestions, Anne!
Lisa
Kathryne, You are on my list of 3 go to’s when looking for colorful meals. Thank you for the article and resources on Black Lives. Thank you for being involved. I love, love, love your site. I’m off to the store to gather items to make one of your delicious meals.
Kate
Thank you for your support! I hope you find the resources helpful and can find some recipes to enjoy this month.
Stacy
I haven’t looked at the recipes, but I want to thank you for your post and the resources you provided for other white people who want to be actively anti-racist.
Kate
You’re welcome, Stacy! I hope you find them helpful.
Fatima
Hey Kate! I really appreciate how you addressed BLM in your blog post. I feel most bloggers tend to shy away from important issues to avoid being seen as “political” so it means a lot to see this! Much love :)
Kate
Thank you, Fatima! I hope to do my part, this was a start.
Ash
Your note on George Floyd shows so much self awareness and empathy. I am proud to be a frequenter of your recipes, many of which have become staples in my household.
Thank you.
Jordan
Hi Kate, thanks for lending your voice and for the suggestions! I’m amazed that people find the notion that black lives should be treated equal to white lives to be political. I’ve added your suggestions to my list as I better educate myself. Two podcasts I found particularly eye-opening, though narrower in scope:
1) This episode of the Smithsonian’s podcast Sidedoor on Tulsa – https://www.si.edu/sidedoor/ep-9-confronting-past I’m not from your area and had literally never heard of it; perhaps since you live closer you’re more familiar. I saw photos of people with signs that referred to Tulsa and Rosewood, which reminded me that these events were really not that long ago and are much fresher in the minds of black Americans that they were in mine.
2) The Floodlines series from the Atlantic – https://www.theatlantic.com/podcasts/floodlines/ It’s on Hurricane Katrina, which may seem a little off-topic, but it was really eye-opening, especially episode 3 on misinformation. I happened to listen to it this past weekend (total coincidence) and found the similarities eerie.
I personally benefited a lot from reading the work of Ta-Nehisi Coates for the Atlantic (https://www.theatlantic.com/author/ta-nehisi-coates/). It’s a few years old but was very educational for me. My grade school education really only mentioned race in the context of slavery and then of the Civil Rights Movement, narrowly defined. I knew almost nothing of the Reconstruction era or of issues that have persisted post-1960s, and I’m a better person for knowing now.
Essay aside – per usual, thanks for the excellent recipe ideas! Always winners in my household :)
Kate
Thank you for sharing your resources and what you have found helpful, Jordan.
Hennessy
Thank you so much for affirming that black lives matter. I’m so glad you spoke out on your platform with education links. Really proud to own your book today and will definitely look forward to anything you have in the future.
Maureen McLennon
THANK YOU for acknowledging your need to become anti-racist. I’m so so so happy to see one of my favorite recipe authors is willing to PUBLICLY share.
I am also a white woman who is acknowledging her need to move towards anti-racism.
Thank you!!
Linda S Robinson
I am not a cook…it seems that every recipe never turns out like I think it should…I found your blog and I have cooked more this past month than my whole 38 years of marriage! I also bought your cookbook! Oh! I am not a vegetarian but I think I am on my way. I have cooked the veggie Lasagna, black bean and sweet pot enchiladas and poblano pepper ones…the butternut squash chile the banana bread the choc cookies and many more! I love your food! It tastes better than I imagine and easy to prepare.
Taija
I love your recipes (both on the blog and in your cookbook) and always appreciate the human-interest element of your posts and monthly round ups. Thank you for affirming that Black Lives Matter,
being honest about your own journey in reckoning with the reality of our country’s history and current injustices, and sharing the resources that are helping you on the way. I have found it helpful to switch up the type of resource (book/article/podcast/documentary, etc.) I’m using to engage in this work, and wanted to recommend The Next Question produced by Austin Channing Brown. It’s a video web series with three co-hosts and different guest contributors having conversations about race and justice, with an emphasis on seeking to expand our imaginations about what racial justice might look like.
We just picked up our first farm-share from our new CSA; I’m looking forward to exploring your June recipe selections!
Kate
Thank you for sharing, Taija!
CherylL Sherrard
Hello Thank you sharing these recipes…. Thank you for posting about Black lives matter
As an African Anerican I am encouraged when someone wants to change… .. again thank you
Nicole
It definitely doesn’t show meaningful engagement with the Black Lives Matter movement, let alone this blog, to repost this verbatim from a year ago.
Kate
Sorry Nicole, my old post was caching and not showing my edits for this year. A technological error!
Debbie
I very much enjoy your recipes, though I had to chuckle when I read the fancy font, and kept trying to figure out what, “Fune,” was, as there is a line through what is supposed to be the “J”. A giggle for a teacher. The quinoa salad looks amazing!
Kate
Haha! That made me chuckle, too. I just double-checked my font file and it’s a very abstract “J” indeed.
Hilary
I love these round-ups, Kate! Looking forward to trying these out.
Diane Lloyd-Jones
Another bundle of mouthwatering recipes – the salads look so yummy! I feel for you worrying about Cookie: I lost my dalmation when my little boy was a toddler and he missed her as much as I did. Bifg hugs for Cookie.
Kate
Thank you, Diane. I really appreciate your kind words.
Mel
As a long-time blog reader, I’m sorry to hear about Cookie. She has has always been your sidekick—and ours—through your cooking endeavors. I know you’ll seek out the best care possible for her. She’s been a real tough Cookie despite fluctuating health conditions and she’s brought so much happiness to a lot of people. I wish her and you all the best as you navigate these next steps!♥
Kate
Thank you, Mel. I appreciate your kind words.
Janelle Monney
I am not going to comment on the food. Your food is always amazing and I love it. I am going to comment about Cookie. I am so sorry to hear that you are going through this. We have two small dogs, one 14 1/2 and one 14. It is so hard. Mose almost died last year and we spent a fortune giving him another year. I wish you strength and courage as you go through this journey with Cookie and wish all of you the best. Thanks for all the positivity you put into the world.
Kate
I’m sorry to hear about your dogs. It’s so hard and to know what is best for them at times. Thank you for sharing, Janelle!
Chris W.
My warmest thoughts go out to you and Cookie – I know exactly what you’re going through. Our toy poodle was 15 when we had to let her go. Was the very hardest thing I ever have had to do. I will never regret staying with her until the end – she deserved my devotion and love. Stay strong for Cookie…
Kate
I’m sorry to hear that, Chris. I appreciate you sharing.
Carla Michaud
Sending lots of love to Cookie…I can’t imagine spending time in my own kitchen without my furry sous-chef ready to scoop up all my messes!
Kate
Thank you, Carla!
Suzi
Recipes – yay! So many look delicious and I can’t wait to try.
But the even more important stuff…
Baby – the time FLIES! I wish you more sleep soon, but I trust there are many smiles and laughs and triumphs (however small) each day that may overshadow the sleep part. Babies can be difficult, but little humans are a treasure so worth the work! (My 3rd and final son just graduated from high school last week – time literally evaporates, I swear!)
And dog – sweet Cookie. Thoughts of love for her – and for her human family as can be hard to watch our pups age and struggle. Our oldest pup is also 14 and having a hard time, so I can definitely relate to your situation there. I hope Cookie is comfortably enjoying all the naps and pets and scratches she wants.
Kate
Thank you for taking the time to comment, Suzi. I really appreciate it!
Julia Rodriguez-Buis
Awwww Cookie! Sending you some virtual love, hugs and pets XOXOXO
Kate
Thank you, Julia! I appreciate it.
Bonne Anderson
Dear Kate,
Sending much love to you and your dear family and of course Cookie! As a fellow dog mom I have had to cross this bridge more than once – and it’s never easy – although it is one of the more nobler decisions you’ll ever make. Take heart in all the good you have shared –
Lots of love from a big fan,
Bonne
Kate
Thank you, Bonne. We really appreciate it!
Deborah
Hi Kate. Your comments about Cookie really resonated with me. We are at the same place with our beloved kitty, who turns 15 in September. The realization that she’s getting older and won’t be with us forever feels unbearable. I’m just trying to focus on loving her as much as possible and continuing to give her the very best life we can. Thinking about quality of life issues and the future is so hard. I am right there with you. Sending much love to Cookie, and to you.
Kate
I’m so sorry to hear you are going through something similar, Deborah. It isn’t easy to know what to do and hard to see them like this. Sending thoughts to you too!
Janice
Watching our four legged family members age is one of the most difficult times in our lives. Because they are huge part of our daily companionship and joy, we grieve for the day they no longer will be with us. I’ve always believed that the day we choose them (or they choose us), we choose to care for them and give them the best life possible. On that day, we also choose to make their last days the best days possible. It’s never easy to watch, but they have always given us everything they have in every moment of the day, and we need to give it back to them. Tears are on my cheeks as I write this; my young rescue dog has his chin on my leg, while I still grieve the loss of our 17 year old “Sweet Pea” a few years ago. We enjoyed every day with her, traveled with her, walked slower with her, became her eyes and ears, and she trusted us to help her age. You are doing the same for Cookie, and she trusts you because of the love and care you give her. Be strong. Find joy. Curl up on the floor with your furry friend. She’ll love it!
Kate
Thank you for your kind words, Janice. I really appreciate it!
Leslie
Much love to Cookie.
Kate
Thank you, Leslie!
Deb Greenwood
Hi Kate,
Just to let you know, I am a huge fan of you and Cookie and your recipes. I also am a cook, and have loved every delicious, healthy and creative one of them!!! I bought your cookbook and have bought it for presents, and always recommend you.
It breaks my heart that Cookie is getting old. I send you and her my love.
Kate
Thank you, Deb!
Lin
I am sending you a hug and Cookie too. It is so hard when our fur babies get older. Thank you for keeping us informed on how she is doing.
Kate
Thank you, Lin! I appreciate it.
Chris
I’m sorry to hear about your Dog, Cookie. That is the sad thing about dogs they do not live that long. My own dog is turning 7 and the vet told me that she has arthritis. This was a wake call for me that she will not be around forever and to love her more.
I recently bought your cookbook and my family has really been enjoying the garnola.
Best wishes
Kate
Thank you, Chris. I’m sorry to hear about your dog as well. It is hard!
Amber
Ooh I’m going to have to try out many of these recipes! Sending my love and well wishes to you and Cookie. It’s such a treat seeing her beautiful face as I flip through the pages of your cookbook I think she and my Corgi would get along :) Have been following you for years, and all of your recipes are hits! Have a lovely June
Kate
Thank you, Amber!
Molly
So sad to hear about Cookie, but I know she’s had a wonderful time with you! Decisions about our pets are often so hard to make. I do send love & pats to Cookie, and a hug for you too!
Kate
Thank you, Molly!
Helen
Thinking of you and Cookie, and sending lots of love and best wishes to you both. XX
cR
Sending lots of <3 <3 <3 to you and your family, Kate. Especially dear Cookie.
Kate
Thank you, CR!
Tremough
Dear Kate and Cookie
I don’t “so” social media of any kind but I wanted to make sure you knew that J read your message about Cookie, and I am sending big love to both of you. . Quality of life is everything, and you are both so lucky to have found each other Enjoy as long as you are able, and know that when you say goodbye, hopefully not yet, that it will be with tears in your eyes but not with a heavy heart.
Kate
Thank you for your kind words! I appreciate it.
Colleen
Drooling!
Rose
Hi Kate. I’m having the same issues with our 14-year-old puggle, Arthur, as you’re having with Cookie. Re hearing loss, believe it or not, you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. He now knows hand signals for come, eat, walk and (I hope) good boy. He also seems able to hear certain pitches. So, if he’s outside in the yard in a place I can’t see him, to get him to come, I blow a whistle which he can hear. When he comes back inside, I give him the tiniest sliver of cheese. Works every time.
His walks are slower and he’s often carried up the stairs. He has good days and bad and when he has a bad day, it’s bad for both of us. Still, the little bugger carries on, thank goodness and seems happy enough.
Tell you what, I’ll send love to Cookie if you send love to Arthur. Deal?
Kate
I’m sorry to hear you are going through something similar, Rose. I appreciate your kind words and sharing your story.
Ann
Cannot wait to make this Avocado Dip! Your recipes are always AMAZING. So sorry to hear about Cookie. Our pets hold such a special place in our hearts. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Jody Cole
Hi Kate,
I’m dying to try some of these yummy looking recipes! I can’t decide which one to start with!
I’m so sorry to hear about Cookie! It is so hard when your pup gets older. I hope you have many more days with her.
Jody
Kate
Thank you, Jody!
Carolyn
Hi Kate!
Thankyou for your fresh ideas for June foods. You always inspire my culinary practice!
My thoughts of love and support go to you and your family on your journey with Cookie.
Carolyn from Canada
Kate
Thank you, Carolyn!
Loretta Dunne
Sending all best wishes to your family and Cookie!
Myrto
I’m sorry to hear that Cookie isn’t feeling well. Sending my love and cuddles to her!
Kate
Thank you, Myrto!
Emily
Sending positive and loving thoughts to Cookie!
Kate
Thank you, Emily! I’m happy to hear you enjoyed it.
Jennifer
All my love to Cookie. You’ve given her a beautiful life Kate.
Kate
Thank you, Jennifer!
Alyssa
Sending Cookie my love!!! The way you wrote about her in your cookbook made me instantly a fan of your brand. I wish you both many more happy and healthy days spent together <3
Kate
Thank you, Alyssa!
Vatan Indian Vegetarian Cuisine & Bakery
Quinoa is fantastic in salads! I hope you like it.
Dee
Hello Cookie and Kate,
Cookie,
Saber and Blaze (2 tiger-cats that love dogs) are sending their love and warm paw touches. I am also sending heartfelt thoughts to you.
Love to you both,
Dee