Summer Sensations

Fettuccine with Stir-Fry Vegetables

After a long, devastating drought not experienced in Barbados for decades, the dry winter months have finally passed. From the onset of the first brief downpours during the month of May, the Bajan landscape suddenly emerges in all its glory. Garden ornamentals start to bloom profusely, offering their abundance of colour, texture and aroma.

The common sites of summer include brilliant yellow Poui trees, fantastic Flamboyant trees, and mango trees in full fruit. Summer colours, flavours, and heat can all be translated in the kitchen through dishes filled with fresh fruits, vegetables and spices.

One such dish is a pasta favourite made with stir-fried vegetables served over pesto infused fettuccine. Onions, red bell peppers, and broccoli are lightly pan fried in olive oil with fresh garlic and dusted with hot cayenne powder. The fettuccine is prepared al dente and mixed with homemade pesto, and then topped with the stir-fry mixture. Serve at lunch time in the garden surrounded by tropical splendour...............

Anole lizard (Anolis extremus) on red Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia splendens)

White Petrea (Petrea volubilis)

Orange Aphelandra (Aphelandra var.)

............or at sundown on the patio while witnessing the glorious sunset. Top this off with a Crumbs Homemade favourite, and kick back and relax. It's going to be a fabulous summer!

Barbados sunset