It’s summer in the US – well, in the whole Northern hemisphere. Surfboards and swimming, sweaty afternoons, sunshine and the pool. Long walks in the early morning or evening. And food.

Rainier cherries are in season. It’s a short season for these cherries, which are the most delicious cherries ever. I don’t know if they’re available everywhere, but check your grocery. They’re a bit pricey, but, oh my goodness, they’re worth it.

Tomatoes. Tomatoes actually ripened on the vine. You can tell because if you give them a gentle squeeze, they aren’t hard. They’re not real soft either, but not hard. Inside, they’re red and juicy. I like them sliced, in a bowl with olive oil drizzled over them, sprinkled with fresh basil and a dash of salt. They’re best with a piece of bread to soak in the juices. The best tomatoes (imo) are found in August in Kentucky.

Cantaloupe. Growing up, I didn’t think I liked cantaloupe. I changed my mind the summer I worked in a fruit market. Fresh, ripe cantaloupe, not refrigerated yet, sliced open on a hot afternoon – heavenly. Here’s my pro-tip on picking cantaloupe – if you press on the end of it with your thumbs, it should feel a little bit soft and the aroma of cantaloupe will waft up to you. Or you can shake it and listen for the seeds in it to slosh around.

Those are a few sensual delights of summer -vivid colors and explosions of sweet deliciousness. Imagine feeding cherries to your Sir – or to your sub. Savoring the textures and the tastes…

Enjoy.