Some friends and I organized an impromptu picnic on Sunday afternoon in McCarren Park. Everyone brought a few things (like this Cauliflower Salad I made!) We sat under a shady tree while we snacked and played Apples to Apples…which I only won one round of, much to the pleasure of my competitors.
Corry brought her super cool old camera along and took some amazing photos, which are too dreamy not to share. Let it be known that I ate waaaay too much of that queso. Old habits die hard.



Despite the humidity, I love summers in NYC! Can’t believe July is half over already…
Photos by Corry Arnold

Last night was so lovely that Emma and I decided to meet up in McCarren after work for some chit chat and a light picnic.  Luckily, my dear Danish house guests had brought me some mangoes earlier in the day, which gave me the idea to make my mom’s Mango Salsa.  It’s sweet and refreshing, perfect for the hot weather.  I’d also been itching to try out a recipe I scooped at Whole Foods while in Chicago last week.  Kale Butter is earthy and super easy to prepare – it’d be great for a party.  We sat in the park talking and snacking until it was dark.  It was a great way to spend a Thursday night.


Mango Salsa
2 mangoes, peeled and chopped (mangoes are such a pain to cut.  That giant seed! I hate that giant seed.)1/2 cup grape tomatoes, cut in half1 small red onion, chopped1/3 cup of cilantro, chopped1 clove of garlic, chopped or microplanedsalt & pepper to taste1 jalapeno, minced (optional, cause some like it hot.)
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Easy as pie salsa! 

Kale Butter1 bunch of kale, steamed1/2 cup of walnuts1/2 cup water (use water that kale was steamed with)2 cloves garlic, choppedsalt to tasteIn a food processor, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.  Serve on sliced baguette.