Hello, June!

Summer is finally here and I’m so ready for it. After what felt like the longest winter and a very windy spring (at least here in Chicago!), I’m thrilled to welcome longer days, warm sunshine, and meals that feel light, bright, and totally summer-ready.

June is one of my favorite months to cook. It’s that sweet spot where produce starts to really come alive without requiring a lot of effort in the kitchen. You can throw together something simple and seasonal, and it still feels like the best thing you’ve eaten all week.

This month, you can expect lots of meals that are perfect for warmer days: veggie-packed recipes that are satisfying but not heavy, vibrant flavors, and easy prep. Whether you're eating on the couch with the fan on or just looking for something that feels like summer, I’ve got you covered.

June is a particularly great month for vegetables. Zucchini and summer squash are at their peak and perfect for roasting or adding to a simple skillet dish. Fresh garlic is abundant and adds depth to everything from sauces to sautés. Bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli hold up beautifully when roasted and tossed into bowls, wraps, or served alongside a protein. Asparagus is still hanging on from spring, and it cooks quickly in a pan or oven—no grill required. Lettuce is also in season, but I mostly use it for adding crunch to wraps or burritos instead of building a salad.

And let’s not forget about fruit—June is peak berry season. Whether you're snacking on them straight from the fridge or throwing them into a quick dessert or yogurt bowl, they’re finally sweet and juicy again.

But the real star of the season for me is lemon. It’s bright, fresh, and instantly makes a dish taste more summery. I use lemon constantly this time of year—zested into marinades, squeezed over roasted veggies, stirred into sauces, or even added to simple grains to liven them up. It’s that one ingredient that can tie a whole meal together, and you’ll definitely be seeing a lot of it this month.

So whether you're looking to kick off your summer with something fresh or just need some meal ideas that won’t weigh you down, I hope this month’s recipes give you a little inspiration—and a lot of flavor.

Here’s to a delicious start to summer!

🌿 In Good Thyme