Blueberry shortcake recipe

When you hear the word shortcake, I can almost guarantee that strawberries come to mind. Well, blueberry shortcake is every bit as good as the traditional strawberry recipe. Try this recipe and see if you agree.

BLUEBERRY SHORTCAKE

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• dash salt
• 1/3 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a medium size bowl, whisk together flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, baking powder and salt. Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk then gather the dough and divide it into 6-8 pieces, depending on how many people you plan to serve. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake 10-14 minutes, until lightly browned and cooked through completely. While the shortcakes are baking, add 1 1/2 cups of the blueberries, 1/2 cup sugar, lemon juice and zest to a small saucepan. Over medium heat, bring to a simmer and cook until all of the berries have burst and the mixture has thickened. Add remaining berries and remove from heat. Allow to cool before serving. Split the shortcakes in half lengthwise, setting tops aside. Top with blueberry topping then replace the tops. Garnish with whipped cream and serve.

Stuffed strawberries recipe

These little delights are easy to make and make a great addition to your summer entertaining.

STUFFED STRAWBERRIES

• 1 pint fresh strawberries, washed and tops removed
• 1 (8) ounce package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons of your favorite fruit flavored liqueur or juice

Directions
Place strawberries cut side side and make a cut from the tip to about 2/3 of the way down through the berry.Make a second cut to create an "X" in the berries. Set aside. Using a mixer, cream together remaining ingredients. Place a star tip in a piping bag then fill with cream cheese mixture. Pipe into the cut berries and arrange on a serving tray. Refrigerate until time to serve.

Cook's Notes

• Use more or less powdered sugar to taste
• Some liqueurs/juices to try include strawberry, lemon, orange and raspberry.

Red pepper aioli recipe

(Photo credit: BeckyCortino)

This delightful sauce makes a great sandwich spread or dipping sauce for summer appetizers.

RED PEPPER AIOLI

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise 
• 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, drained 
• 1 large clove garlic, chopped 

Directions
Place all of the ingredients in a mini chopper  and process until mostly smooth and well combined (some small chunks of pepper and garlic will remain-this is normal). Be sure the scrape down the sides as need. Place in a small bowl, cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Cook's Notes-for a lighter version, use light mayonnaise instead of regular