Women for the Culture Presents: The Summer Cookout, Episode 1

As a longtime professional chef, restaurant consultant, and food content creator, one of my absolute favorite things to do is play around with great ingredients in the kitchen. I’m really big on seasonal, fresh produce—especially when it's something fun!

Since we are smack dab in the middle of summer, I figured it was the perfect time to launch a mini-series celebrating some of the season's best fruits and veggies, challenging myself to make both a meal and a matching drink for each one. I’ll show you the creation process in the video, and then drop the recipe right here so you can try it at home. Simple things that are genuinely delicious, you know?

​I spent a few days thinking about how to bring this to life and, more importantly, what to name it. I slept on it, and then it hit me: It’s our virtual cookout.

​With that said—welcome to the inaugural edition of The Summer Cookout! Each episode will center around a featured summer ingredient, and you can come right here to Women for the Culture to get the full recipes.

And since we’re setting the ultimate summertime vibe, I think it’s only right to start with watermelon. Because why not?

The Star of the Show: Watermelon

When I think of watermelon, I immediately think of the cookout—fresh slices piled high on a platter next to potato salad or pasta salad, or sitting proudly on the dessert table next to peach cobbler and a freshly baked cake. It is a quintessential summer staple for sure.

​But I didn’t want to just do the expected. As a chef, I love playing with unique flavor profiles and challenging the palate to create something new and wonderful.

​I’m a huge fan of sweet and savory dishes, so I knew pairing watermelon with a briny cheese would keep things light while delivering an unexpected punch. Think of it along the lines of a classic watermelon and feta salad, but with a delicious twist.

What's on the Menu

Below, you’ll find the recipes for my Watermelon and Queso de Freír Salad, as well as the refreshing Watermelon Agua Fresca I paired it with!

​Missed the video? Watch the step-by-step tutorial right here.

​Be sure to tag @womenfortheculture across all platforms with a picture of your creation once you make it!