August is a big month here in Minnesota for garden produce.  Farmers markets are in full swing with a wide array of fresh picked vegetables.  Home gardeners are happy to share the bounty of their labor – especially when it comes to zucchini and tomatoes.  It seems that zucchini multiply faster than rabbits and, rarely do tomatoes ripen one at a time!  It’s not unusual to find zucchini and tomatoes looking for a new home here in the Test Kitchens.  They just appear on the counter begging to be taken home.  Someone has harvested their garden the night before and realizes it is impossible to use all of their lovingly grown veggies themselves, so they bring them in to share.  Soon there are recipe discussions and usage suggestions taking place.   One recipe that invariably comes up is Italian Pasta & Tomato Salad because it’s simple to make and features fresh veggies and herbs.

Each summer, I spend as much time pool-side at my parents' house as I can. It's our own little oasis where we can slow down, enjoy the sunshine and make memories as a family. And since food is always at the center of those memories, we take great pleasure in light, refreshing meals that are simple enough to make that they don't cut into our restful day.