flank the troops

My husband’s oldest arrived in Dayton shortly after my youngest left. Can’t say how much it means having our new house become a home. A challenge and opportunity is heralding the neighboring highlights to our collective brood.

Yellow Springs is a place I have never been but seemed a good match. Often referred to as the Woodstock of the Midwest the two of us set out for lunch and an afternoon adventure. Passing miles of cornfields we made our way into this town infused with peace and love. A definite flashback to its utopian roots.

After we perused the bookstores we had lunch at the Winds. An earthy spot with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients that lived up to its reputation. Satisfied we flipped through crates of old vinyl, my adolescence mirrored in the record jackets. On our way to grab a coffee before our trek home my stepson spotted Dave Chappelle. Who knew this lost icon of Comedy Central was alive and well and chatting on the corner of Xenia and Elm. Mission accomplished the day was a hit. Now for a dinner with hopefully as much star power.

Flank steak rarely disappoints. This modest cut is heightened with a slightly sweet and salty marinade. Mine is made with Italian dressing, vinegar, honey and soy sauce.

Popped in a Ziploc bag for at least four hours. Marinating in the frig during our excursion.

This time of year calls for an endless parade of freshly picked tomatoes and corn. Nothing beats it and quick stop at a local farm stand fills the bill. A fresh corn relish of quickly blanched corn, a Bundt pan makes cutting off the kernels a breeze.

Tossed with diced red onion, vinegar, olive oil and slivered fresh basil.

A caprese salad of perfectly ripe tomatoes, julienned fresh basil and more of that incredible burrata cheese. When you have a good thing you might as well keep it going. If Yellow Springs can exist in a virtual time warp so can my summer sides.

Roasted fingerling potatoes with fresh rosemary.

Bypassing the Corner Cone on the way out of town a brownie sundae seemed a fitting finish. No one makes brownies like Dayton’s very own Dorothy Lane Market. Topped with Graeter’s vanilla ice cream and a spoonful of warm dulce de leche caramel sauce.

Sweet dreams and a perfect day.