A Slice of Summer

By Andrew Hunter

Fruit’s a big deal in our house. Ben and Nick can eat an astounding amount of strawberries, grapes, mangoes, apples and oranges. But they know that none of it compares to eating a “gynormous” wedge of watermelon on a hot summer afternoon.

The boys have pretty simple expectations … it should be cold, juicy and refreshing. While watermelon is indeed perfect to quench their thirst with its sweet juice, it also has a more complex culinary side. Watermelon is perfect foil for sweet herbs, citrus and even salty cheese. So cut your kids and their friends a wedge as big as their heads and save the rest for a delicious summer salad for your more refined palates.

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Getting to the Heart of Artichokes

By Katie Barreira

They’re here! Seasonal artichokes have begun to arrive in markets. Don’t let these ornery thistles intimidate you. Choose artichokes with tight leaves that feel heavy for their size. Light scaring and discoloration on the outer leaves is okay; it’s their job to protect the tender inner leaves.

Depending on the preparation, artichokes can be a most carnal vegetarian repast or a refined culinary delicacy. Take your pick, they’re all delicious.

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Inside Special Fork: Behind the Scenes of our Video Blogs

By Sandy Hu

It’s a gorgeous Sunday morning in San Francisco. But instead of going out to enjoy it – and heaven knows we’ve had few perfect summer days to revel in – my son Dave and I are dutifully chopping and measuring and getting ready to shoot another Special Fork video blog.

Fridays are video days on our blog site and we are committed to introducing a new video blog every week. Dave and I comb through the Special Fork beta site looking for recipes to spotlight that are quick, easy and delicious, and that offer a teachable moment. Sometimes, we simply want to show how do-able a recipe is, even for beginners.

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