Jersey Tomatoes are starting to come into season and this recipe is a perfect one to showcase them. Bread puddings in general are so cozy and comforting and to find one with such a great savory flavor is fantastic. This dish makes a wonderful veggie main course. Of course they are also a perfect side to accompany something tasty off the grill like skirt steak or a juicy rib-eye. Rich and delicious this tomato bread pudding has already become a summer staple in my home.

I love Middle Eastern kebabs, and was itching to try this recipe. Pressed for time, I was a little taken aback when I first read it required that you soak the three slices of sandwich bread in water for 30 minutes. I only had 10 minutes to do so, but in hindsight, I don't think you need to soak the bread at all. Even after 10 minutes, the bread was a sopping mess. I tried to squeeze out as much water as possible, but it was still really soggy. The result? Kebabs that were mushy, bordering on bad meatloaf texture. That being said, though, the flavor was quite nice with the allspice, cinnamon and cloves, and the zesty tarator sauce. I would make this recipe again, but just not soak the bread.

This entree is a little out of my (financial) league for a routine weekday meal, but definitely one to keep in mind for a special occasion. I had been in a bit of a culinary rut, always seasoning lamb in the more classic Provençal manner, but this recipe does not disappointment. I served it with couscous and grilled zucchini--which make an excellent vehicle for consuming even more of that yummy arugula pesto. When the coals cooled down, I brushed the grill clean and warmed several slices of pound cake...the perfect base for a fabulous strawberry shortcake. (This was a special occasion, remember?)

As I've stated on many occasions I'm no baker but I love using fresh fruits to make simple and delicious desserts. This recipe is a perfect way to use those cherries, nectarines, and peaches that are coming into season now. It was a wonderful dessert alternative for the Fathers Day dinner in my house this year.