fresh veggies

Eating the fresh produce from our garden is hard work, but somebody has to do it.  This year we planted plenty and we are already reaping goodies.  Thus far I’ve picked strawberries, blackberries and blueberries. I’ve also gotten some squash and zucchini.  There’s not many things better than fired squash. Everyday I look at the tomatoes–hoping one is ready to eat. It hasn’t happened yet this year but it’s coming! However, today I thought I’d try a different recipe.  There’s a local BBQ place that serves a vegetable medley that both Toby and I really enjoy. With that in mind I thought I’d try my hand at making it myself.  Enjoy!

Pick a couple each of fresh crooked neck squash (pick up at road side stand), zucchini, butter stick squash, onion, and tomato (whether from your home garden or your garden or in the produce section of Kroger). Wash and place to the side.

diced fresh tomatoes

Next, cut the tip ends off the squash and zucchini and the core out of the tomatoes.  The veggies are now ready to dice into a bowl.  I used my new handy salad maker bowl Tia gave me for mother’s day.  In hindsight, I recommend chopping them a little smaller.

squash in salad chopper

Now for the cheating part…take a cup of your favorite vinegar and oil based salad dressing and pour on top. Mix well and place in the refrigerator to marinate.  Yum yum!

Vegetable Medley is a lovely side dish with lots of color.  If you’re like me, it’s also a great snack straight from the bowl when nobodies looking!

veggie medley

Cheating Cook Tip:  Use Italian dressing instead of making from scratch!