Summer's Gracious Exit

Autumn has just arrived and Summer has made her gracious exit. I took this photo at Laguna Beach just as another majestic day was bidding adieu and evening was preparing to mark its arrival. It was such a symbolic moment for me as my son was ending his visit and preparing to return to D.C. the next day. The reflection of the setting sun upon the water was in concert with my sentiments toward his departure. Arrivals are forever joyful with farewells always heavy on the heart.

 We, in Southern California as elsewhere, are reaping what has been sown. Bell peppers are at the top of the list for harvesting this week and their riot of colors indicate the forthcoming season's palette : hunter green, harvest gold, pumpkin orange and apple red. Here is a easy-to-prepare recipe for a quick side dish using these delectable veggies:

Mixed Peppers Confetti Salad

Ingredients:

• 
  
  four peppers; one each of green, yellow, orange and red, chopped
• 
  
  one medium red onion, diced
• 
  
  one can of black beans, rinsed
• 
  
  small bunch cilantro (or flat leaf Italian parsley), chopped
• 
  
  one lime
• 
  
  three tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 
  
  two tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 
  
  one tablespoon organic honey
• 
  
  1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
• 
  
  1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 
  
  salt and black pepper to taste

Recipe:

• 
  
  Mix peppers, onion, black beans and cilantro (parsley) in medium bowl
• 
  
  Zest lime and add zest to mixture, then set aside
• 
  
  Ream lime and add juice to remaining ingredients in small bowl
• 
  
  Whisk the dressing ingredients and pour over  peppers,onion, beans and cilantro mixture.
• 
  
  Add salt and black pepper to taste.

This dish is great with chicken, fish or on its own with a crusty baguette, some cheese and a glass of wine.

Enjoy!