Tiny, little cukes swelled into full-grown fruit while I was away.  I haven't had time to google for a good ice-box pickle recipe or two yet, but, nonetheless - here they are, in all their glory…piles of them. (I want nothing to do with canning, but if anyone knows a good brine or two?…)

Red & White Salad, a favorite of my dad's: cukes, tomatoes, sweet onions in a dressing from extra-virgin-olive-oil and cider vinegar and a Hidden Valley Italian Dressing Mix.  Best in August and early September.

Cucumber Sandwiches: Thick slices of garden-grown cucumbers on top of those mini, cocktail-rye slices that have been slathered in a Hidden Valley Ranch-seasoned cream cheese and sprinkled with the lighest hint of garlic salt.  Mmmmm. 

Does all bountiful home-gardener produce have its very own sandwich recipe, I wonder?

The Hidden Valley people seem to have their finger in the pulse of the cucumber-heavy garden.

Out to the garden…Jeanie

NOTE TO SELF:  Would right now be a good time to try the 10-day "Daniel diet" of only water and vegetables?  Is it still a Daniel diet if I add in grilled chicken breast or steak?  Think on this…