Melon, cucumber and tomato in a coriander pesto, and a spicy summer vegetable stew
Adjapsandal is one of my favourite Georgian go-tos, no matter the season. Its more traditional form is broody and stewy, designed to burble away on a winter stove a bit like ratatouille, but with more fresh herbs. In summer, while the barbecue’s on and veg dishes of this kind are va-va-voom, it makes sense to just chuck them on the barbie instead and perhaps team with a spicy shortcut adjika paste using a jar of roast peppers. And, second, a very adaptable carpaccio for any firm fruit in your fridge or fruit bowl: melons, stone fruit – heck, even pineapple! The key is to use a sharp knife and slice against the grain for the best mouthfeel, much as you might sashimi.
Piquillo peppers work best here, if you can find them, but you can use the ones from the deli counter, too, though maybe add a splash more red-wine vinegar to balance the acidity, tasting as you go. If it’s not barbecue weather, you could also cook this indoors on a griddle – just make sure to get it smoking hot and open a window.
Prep 15 min
Cook 40 min
