August

August is a bittersweet month for many. It is the last month of summer, and each day spent with family and friends is one to be cherished. Although the weather remains pleasant, hints of fall slowly begin to appear amid the vibrant summer produce. To me this is the best of both: each season is at its peak, yet figs, apples, and plums are also coming into their own.

The recipes I chose for the month of August pay tribute to all of the wonderful produce available this time of year. Baked Yogurt, a luscious, creamy pudding, is a perfect companion to virtually all fruit. It is delightful whether you serve it with figs or with peaches. The Apple and Cardamom Cake makes good use of apples, now in season, but this delicious, versatile cake can be made with other available fruit you love—apricots, perhaps strawberries if they are available, and cherries too. The same goes for the Ricotta and Plum Cake. And of course, you can never go wrong with a good Pear Crumble. I chose to use one of my favorites, pears, in the recipe, but any fruit will work: mixed berries, apples, rhubarb, peaches, and plums, all are delectable.