Highly Recommended Summer Camps for Kids
Top local programs that spark creativity, adventure, and lasting memories.
AletterfromGracie
As we welcome the warmth and energy of summer, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what homeownership truly represents not just a place to live, but a foundation for building wealth, creating memories, and expanding opportunities.
At Mortgage and Beyond, we believe homeownership is just the beginning of the journey For many families, the next step is learning how real estate can become a powerful tool for financial growth. In this issue, we’re excited to share guidance on purchasing your first rental property, understanding financing options if you own a business, and exploring how the right mortgage strategy can help you build a long-term real estate portfolio.
Summer is also about time with family and community. That’s why we’ve included a curated list of local summer events and camps across North Texas to help you make the most of the season with the people who matter most.
Our mission has always been simple to empower tools they need to make confident decisions. Whe future, or simply enjoying the summer with your fam
Here’s to sunshine, opportunity, and building something meaningful this summer.
With gratitude,
Founder, Mortgage & Beyond
Gracie MorrowGracie Morrow
A welcome message from our founder
Practical steps to safeguard your mortgage approval during the process
Breaking down the key components of what you pay each month
A closer look at the M&B Loan Program for self employed borrowers
First rental property? Here are strategies to set you up for success
L
Spotlight on community highlights and happenings near you
Exciting camps and local outings for kids and families to enjoy together
Important deadlines to keep your finances on track
A quick review to realign your budget and goals
N T E N T S
Easy, everyday changes that make your home more sustainable
Boost your credit score and make the most of your tax refund
Expert insights on loans, equity, and financing explained simply
Two delicious seasonal dishes to enjoy and share E C
UNDER CONTRACT? PROTECT YOUR APPROVAL WITH THESE SMART MOVES
Congratulations you’re under contract! That’s a big milestone. Now comes the quiet phase most buyers don’t think about: protecting the approval you’ve already worked hard to earn.
Between contract and closing, your lender is verifying that your financial picture hasn’t changed. The numbers that qualified you must still qualify you. Underwriting isn’t emotional. It’s formula-driven. And formulas don’t care how excited we are about new furniture.
Smart Moves to Stay on Track
Keep your job steady
Employment is verified before closing. Even positive changes may need documentation. Speak with your lender before making a move.
Respond quickly to document requests.
IDs, pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns are normal at this stage Prompt responses keep your file moving toward closing
Document larger deposits.
Be ready to log any incoming funds. Clear records prevent delays.
Make every payment on time.
Credit will be checked again One late payment can affect your score and approval terms Stay consistent until closing
Maintain your savings.
Keep your closing funds available. Avoid large transfers or unusual activity without consulting your loan team.
What to avoid During the contract phase
Once you’re under a purchase contract, consistency is everything. Your loan is still being reviewed, and even small changes can affect the final approval.
Co-Signing for Anyone
Agreeing to co‑sign means you’re liable for the debt, and your financial profile is affected right away.
Making Large Cash Deposits
Cash deposits can be hard to verify and may prompt extra underwriting review. Keep your accounts consistent and well-documented.
Changing Jobs Without Discussing It
Your income structure matters Any employment change should be reviewed with your lender first.
Opening New Credit Accounts
New credit can shift your score and debt-to-income (DTI) ratio — even small accounts may impact final underwriting.
Financing Furniture, Appliances, or Car
New monthly payments change your qualifying numbers What feels manageable now could affect your loan approval
Why it matters
Scenario: A buyer once financed new furniture after going under contract. The added monthly payment increased their debt just enough to complicate the approval. Nothing dramatic just numbers shifting.
Reminder: Stay steady for a few more weeks, and you’ll cross the finish line with confidence!
UNDERSTANDING YOUR MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT
When most people hear “mortgage payment,” they think it’s just paying a loan In reality, it covers several parts that protect your home, investment, and lender
Knowing each piece makes budgeting easier From reducing your loan balance to covering taxes, insurance, and optional community fees, every dollar has a purpose
MOST MORTGAGE PAYMENTS CON SI ST OF FOUR PRIMARY PARTS:
— COMMONLY CALLED PITI
p r i n c i p a l
Paying Down What You Borrowed
Principal is the part of your payment that reduces the loan balance For example, each payment gradually chips away at a $300,000 loan, building equity the portion of the home you own. Early in the loan, less goes toward principal, but this grows over time. Think of principal as measurable progress toward full ownership.
The Cost of Borrowing Money
Interest is what the lender charges on your loan Calculated as a percentage of your balance, it’s higher at the start and decreases as the balance drops Your rate significantly affects the total mortgage cost Interest isn’t a penalty it’s the cost of accessing funds to buy your home
UNDERSTANDING YOUR MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT
P r o p e r t y Ta x e s
Your Contribution to the Community
Property taxes fund local services like schools, roads, and emergency services
Lenders often collect part of your annual taxes monthly and pay them via escrow
Tax amounts vary by location and property value, and may change over time
Protecting the Property
Homeowners insurance covers your home against fire, storms, theft, and other damage Lenders require insurance because the home is collateral for the loan Premiums are often collected monthly via escrow, and rates can change based on claims history or different market factors
UNDERSTANDING YOUR MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT
Depending on your situation, your payment may also include:
H O A D U E S & F E E S
Homeowners Association Fees
Living in an HOA community means paying dues for shared amenities, maintenance, and neighborhood services These fees are billed monthly or quarterly, and lenders would factor them into your overall housing budget to give a full picture of affordability
Mortgage Insurance
If your down payment is under 20% on a conventional loan, PMI may be required It protects the lender in case of default, while helping make homeownership possible sooner The good news once you build enough equity, it can usually be removed
Many buyers assume their mortgage payment will always stay the same With a fixed-rate mortgage, principal and interest remain steady, but taxes, insurance, and HOA/association fees may increase (or decrease) over time
Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) can also change your interest portion after an initial fixed period. Knowing what can change helps you plan without surprises.
Bank Statement Loan Program
Self-Employed Borrowers
Profit and Loss (P&L) Statements NOT required
Loan amounts as high as $3,000,000
Up to 90% loan-to-value (LTV) with no mortgage insurance, depending on loan size and purpose
Multiple business bank accounts permitted
Business bank statements and personal bank statements permitted
Business expense ratio as low as10%
Borrower does not have to be100% owner ofthe business
Common-sense consideration of Non-Sufficient Funds (NSFs) and overdrafts
Highly competitive rates and unsurpassed funding times
12- and 24-Month BankStatement Program Features: Shows your
STARTING SMART IN RENTALS
BUYING YOUR FIRST RENTAL PROPERTY
Are you thinking about buying your first rental property? It’s an exciting step and for many people, it’s the beginning of long-term financial growth Rental real estate can provide steady income and build wealth over time But like any investment, it works best when you go in prepared Here’s a clear, practical look at what to expect and how to do it right
WHY PEOPLE INVEST IN RENTAL PROPERTY
Rental property appeals to investors seeking both immediate income and long term growth
RENTAL PROPERTY OFFERS SEVERAL ADVANTAGES:
If your rent covers your expenses and leaves money left over, you create positive cash flow each month
Property values tend to increase over time, especially in areas with job and population growth
Landlords can deduct many expenses, including mortgage interest, maintenance, and insurance
As the cost of living rises, rents often rise too while a fixed mortgage payment stays the same
You don t need to pay the full price in cash Financing allows you to control a valuable asset with a smaller upfront investment
THE RESPONSIBILITIES TO CONSIDER
Rental property is not completely passive It requires attention and planning
Repairs are inevitable, and unexpected costs are part of ownership Tenants also require careful screening, since choosing reliable renters is one of the most important ways to protect your investment Vacancies can be costly, because even when the property is empty you ’ re still responsible for covering the bills And above all, rental property is a business Even if you hire a property manager, you remain accountable for the decisions and financial performance Being a landlord can be rewarding but it requires a professional mindset
SMART STRATEGIES FOR BEGINNERS
Here’s a clear, practical look at what to expect and how to do it right
GetFinanciallyReady
Before buying:
Aim for strong credit
Pay down high-interest debt
Save for:
15–25% down payment
Closing costs
3–6 mo emergency funds
Having cash reserves reduces stress when surprises happen
FocusonCashFlow
While appreciation can increase the value of your property over time, cash flow is what provides immediate stability Your first rental should be able to cover its expenses and generate steady profit each month Monthly income creates security
StartSimple
For your first property, keep it manageable A single-family home is often easier to maintain and resell A small duplex can also work well, especially if you live in one unit and rent the other Avoid major renovation projects at the beginning Stability matters more than speed
RuntheNumbersCarefully
Make sure rent realistically covers: Mortgage Taxes and insurance Maintenance (5–10% of rent) Vacancy (5–8%)
If the deal only works under “perfect” conditions, it’s probably too risky.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Buying your first rental property can be a powerful move toward financial independence The key is preparation, patience, and treating the property like a business
Start small Run the numbers carefully Keep reserves
Done the right way, your first rental won’t just generate income it will lay the foundation for long-term wealth
Refinance Smarter.
LOCALBUSINESS/ EVENTHIGHLIGHTS
S E C O N D Q U A R T E R
APR 3
APR 4
APR 4-12
AAGD2026TradeShow
At Dallas Market Hall, this annual expo connects multifamily property owners, managers, and on site teams with suppliers and service providers, featuring themed booths, networking, and the latest industry resources
SoleToSole
A premier sneaker, vintage, and streetwear expo, bringing together 80+ vendors and enthusiasts in a vibrant marketplace of trading, shopping, and style
MusicHallatFairParkEvents
Some Like It Hot - lively musical comedy running through early April
APR 16-19 APR 22-23
MAY 1-3 (Apartment Association of Greater Dallas)
MainStreetFortWorthArtsFestival
Downtown Fort Worth transforms into a vibrant showcase of juried artists, multiple music stages, and gourmet food vendors, making it one of the largest cultural events in Texas each spring
DallasBuildExpo
A regional construction showcase with 250 exhibitors, classes, and networking at Dallas Market Hall
DallasInternationalGuitarFestival
At Dallas Market Hall, this expo features buy sell trade booths, exhibitor showcases, and live performances, capped by a Saturday night jam
MAY6 -JUN14
MusicHallatFairParkEvents
Wicked - The blockbuster Broadway hit returns for an extended run in May and June
LOCALBUSINESS/ EVENTHIGHLIGHTS
JUNE 6-7
Richardson’s three day festival blends national touring bands, local art displays, and family friendly activities, creating a lively celebration of music and creativity
A colorful expo showcasing aquatics, reptiles, aquascaping, and interactive displays, all under one roof at Dallas Market Hall JUNE 10-12
This annual commercial real estate networking event features exhibitors, themed booths, cocktails, and food, connecting industry professionals with building service providers in a lively “Under the Big Top” showcase (Building Owners and Managers Association of Greater Dallas)
Stress-Free Property Management
About Us
At Keyrenter, we transform your investment into a seamless, stressfree experience. Our full-service property management approach ensures your rental property is not just maintained but optimized for maximum profitability
21 Point Tenant Screening
Full-Service Property Management
Transparent Financial Reporting
Proactive Maintenance Planning
Efficient Rent Collection
Low Eviction Rate (469) 414-1000
Schedule a Call
6565 N MacArthur Blvd #225, Irving, TX 75039, United States info@keyrenterdfwmidcities.com Why Keyrenter
Marble Falls, Texas Hill Country
Good to know:
Overnight spots go fast; check first‑time camper sessions and bus options.
Carrollton, DFW Area
Classic day camp fun focused on character, teamwork, and adventure High‑energy games, creative challenges, and confidence‑building activities led by seasoned counselors. Great for first time campers and busy families
KIDVENTURE DALLAS CAMP
Lake time, ropes courses, and campfire nights make summer unforgettable Counselors build independence and leadership through cabins, color wars, and unplugged play Perfect for kids ready to stretch their wings.
CAMPS
YOUR KIDS WILL LOVE THIS
Good to know: Multiple DFW locations; weekly themes and sibling discounts
Good to know: Sessions fill early; check age tracks and half‑ vs. full‑day options.
Hands‑on garden labs, scavenger hunts, and STEAM projects turn the Arboretum into a living classroom. Outdoor time, art with natural materials, and friendly science make spring and summer bloom Best for curious kids who love plants and wildlife.
DALLAS ARBORETUM
White Rock Lake Area
TOGETHER
FAMILY FAMILY
Adventures Adventures
ACROSS DFW ACROSS DFW
Grand Prairie — EpicCentral District
Zip lines, climbing nets, and sky high obstacles deliver thrills for all ages, with beginner zones easing first timers in. Summer energy finds its outlet here, as families cheer each other on from one challenge to the next
Tip: Book timed tickets and pack grippy socks if required
BOLDER ADVENTURE PARK
GO APE TREETOP ADVENTURE
Plano — Oak Point Park
Swing, climb, and zip through rope ladders, Tarzan swings, and canopy crossings. With courses for every level, it’s a treetop escape that blends adrenaline with family fun.
Bring: Closed toe shoes, water, bug spray.
Dallas — Victory Park
Cool off indoors with puzzles that test teamwork and spark laughter Pick a theme, race the clock, and celebrate together when the final lock clicks open
Tip: Choose an age appropriate room and book a private slot.
DALLAS ESCAPE ROOMS
From high energy fun to quiet escapes, summer reminds families that the best adventure is time spent together
April
Tax Season Essentials & Key Filing Dates
SEC 10 Q filing deadline for accelerated filers; large public companies must submit Q1 reports
SEC 10 Q filing deadline for non accelerated filers; smaller public companies submit Q1 reports
June
Property tax payment deadline in many Texas counties; late payments may trigger fees or liens
Mid‑Year Checkpoint & Education Milestones
Tax Day; federal income tax returns due and deadline to file Form 4868 for a six month extension (extends filing time not payment)
IRA (Individual Retirement Account) & HSA (Health Savings Account) Contribution Deadline; last day to make 2025 tax year contributions toward retirement or medical savings
Property tax installment deadline; counties require spring payments to avoid late fees
May
Quarterly Reporting & Homeowner Obligations
Estimated tax payment due (Q2); self employed and small businesses submit their second quarterly installment to avoid penalties
Mid year financial checkpoint; a good time to review budgets and savings progress
Final day to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid for the 2026–27 academic year
FINANCIAL CHECKPOINT
Mid-Year
Why a Mid-Year Check Matters
June marks the halfway point of the year a natural time to pause and review your financial progress.
Financial progress rarely comes from one big decision. It’s usually built through small, consistent adjustments.
Many people begin January with clear goals: saving more, reducing debt, improving credit, or preparing for homeownership. But as the months pass, daily expenses and busy schedules can make it easy for those plans to drift.
A quick mid-year review helps you see what’s working, identify what needs adjustment, and refocus your financial goals while there’s still plenty of time left in the year.
StartWithYour Budget
Your budget anchors your financial plan, and mid‐year is the time to check where your money is going.
Quick Mid-Year
Budget Check
(Take10minutestoreview):
Currentmonthlyincome
Fixedexpenses(mortgage,rent, insurance,propertytaxes)
Variableexpenses(food,utilities, entertainment,transportation)
Subscriptionsorunusedservices
Areaswheresavingscouldaddup
Ask yourself:
Are you staying within your planned spending limits? Have new expenses appeared that weren’t in your January budget?
Mid-Year
F I N A N C I A L C H E C K P O I N T
ReviewYour Savings and Financial Goals
Mid-year is a natural moment to check how your savings are progressing. Many people set goals at the start of the year, such as saving for a home down payment, building an emergency fund, reducing debt, or preparing for a future investment property. Reviewing these goals now helps you see where adjustments may be needed to stay on track
It’s also a good time to revisit your broader financial priorities.
Ask yourself:
Are my goals still the same as they were in January?
Have my priorities shifted?
Is my current plan helping me move closer to those goals?
Mid-Year Financial Reset
A time to strengthen your financial habits:
• Increase automatic savings contributions
• Direct bonuses or extra income to savings
• Reduce high-interest debt balances
• Continue building emergency reserves
Looking Ahead
The second half of the year offers a fresh opportunity to refocus. With a clearer view of your budget, savings, and goals, you can move forward with confidence Whether you’re preparing for homeownership, planning an investment, or building better habits, small adjustments now can lead to meaningful results by year‐end.
We’re here to help
Need guidance?
Scan the QR to connect with us at Mortgage & Beyond for a quick call about your financial or mortgage questions.
ckpoint as a course correction rather than a olve, and reviewing them regularly helps you oach, and stay on track toward future goals.
company to restore your home and help protect your personal property From soaked floors to smoky walls, we return your property to its predamageconditionquicklyandefficiently.
We’recallingonprofessionalsinthese
Membership Tier
Vendor Type
To keep the list vetted and high value to our clients, we ask for an annual partnershipfee We are not looking to make a profit from the partnershipfee, thefee simply covers onboarding, quality control, and getting our partners to be visible to as many as good referral partners as possible. Here is the info:
Membership Tier
Vendor Type Scale
Pest Control
Home Staging
Smart Home Install
Movers
Packers
Home
Water
Membership Tier
Foundation
Vendor Type
Real Estate Photographers
Drone Videographers
Marketing & Creative Vendors (flyers, websites, social media)
Event Planning
What You Get as a Member of the Inner Circle Vendor List
If you run a reputable service-based business and want to be considered for the next round of partners, your company will receive the following benefits:
1. Ad Placement in Mortgage and Beyond Magazine
A half-page or full-page ad featuring your current specials in our Magazine (published quarterly), mailed to 6,000 clients annually.
2. Direct Introductions to Top Agents
Connect with 150 high-producing realtors who closed 1,000+ transactions last year and get access to their partner group.
3. Marketing Opportunities With Builders & Offices
Get your flyers and promos into the hands of national builders and major local real estate teams through our partner network.
4. Monthly Homebuyer Guide Placement
Show up in a printed guide mailed to 200–300 new mortgage applicants every month.
5. Featured on Our Website
Your business will be listed as a trusted vendor visible to 10,000+ monthly visitors.
6. Newsletter Exposure
Be seen by 8,500+ homeowners and real estate pros through our weekly newsletter
ECO‑FRIENDLY LIVING GUIDE
PRACTICAL WAYS TO GO GREEN.
Making your home sustainable and planet-friendly saves money, reduces your carbon footprint, and keeps things comfortable. You don’t need a full remodel small, smart changes add up.
1 SMART ENERGY SAVINGS
Switch to LED bulbs – use up to 80% less energy.
Install a smart thermostat – adjusts heating/cooling automatically.
Use timed power strips – cut phantom energy from idle devices.
Seal drafts and insulate – keeps your home efficient year-round.
2
SUSTAINABLE HOME PRODUCTS
Opt for low-VOC paints – healthier indoor air
Choose recycled or responsibly-sourced materials (bamboo, FSC wood)
Use eco-friendly cleaning supplies – safer for you and the environment
Look for ENERGY STAR® or GREENGUARD® certifications when buying appliances
3 GREEN BUILDING & UPGRADES
Passive solar design & high-efficiency insulation – save energy naturally.
Consider solar panels or battery storage – store energy and cut bills
Add rainwater harvesting or composting systems – reduce water waste
Explore living walls or green roofs – improve air quality and insulation
4 EVERYDAY HABITS THAT HELP
Turn off lights when leaving rooms
Air-dry clothes instead of using the dryer
Track energy use with smart home apps
Compost kitchen waste to reduce landfill impact.
PRO TIP
Start small: Pick one upgrade or habit this week and build from there Every step counts!
FINANCIAL WELLNESS CORNER
IMPROVING YOUR CREDIT SCORE
WhyYourCreditScoreMatters
rates Higher scores qualify for lower interest rates.
options Strong scores increase your borrowing power.
WaystoBoostYourCreditScore
CHECK YOUR CREDIT REPORT
Review all three bureaus for errors and dispute inaccuracies
PAY BILLS ON TIME
Your payment history has the biggest impact late payments can drop your score
KEEP OLDER ACCOUNTS OPEN
Length of credit history strengthens your score
REDUCE DEBT
Keep balances low and pay down high-interest accounts first Aim for under 30% credit utilization
LIMIT NEW CREDIT APPLICATIONS
Too many inquiries can temporarily lower your score Apply only when needed
DIVERSIFY CREDIT RESPONSIBLY
A
Avoid unnecessary fees like Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).
Think of your credit score as a plant — small, consistent actions help it grow and stay healthy.
Improving your credit takes patience, but steady effort pays off. Strong credit gives you confidence, more mortgage options, and long-term financial flexibility. Start now, stay consistent, and watch your score rise
FINANCIAL WELLNESS CORNER
IDEAS ON HOW TO BEST USE YOUR TAX REFUND
For many people, a tax refund feels like a bonus In reality, it’s money you ’ ve already earned — simply returned to you And if you ’ re thinking about buying a home, that refund can become more than spending money It can become a strategic step forward For first-time buyers especially, even a few thousand dollars can meaningfully impact your homeownership journey The key is using it with intention
BoostYour DownPayment
Adding your refund to your down payment can lower your loan amount, reduce payments, and possibly eliminate PMI Even small increases can create long-term savings
Deposit your refund directly into your home savings account to avoid impulse spending
Closing costs are separate from your down payment and include lender and title fees, taxes, and insurance Using your refund here can ease upfront expenses
Reducing credit card or loan balances may improve your credit score and debt-to-income ratio, strengthening your loan approval
Target high-interest credit cards first to maximize score improvement.
StartPlanning
Builda Homeowner SafetyNet
Unexpected repairs happen. Setting aside your refund as reserves provides stability and reassurance after closing
Keep reserves in a separate savings account to prevent accidental spending
For current homeowners, applying refunds toward future investment savings can steadily build purchasing power over time
Treat each tax refund as a scheduled contribution toward your long-term investment goal
A tax refund offers flexibility, but how it’s used can shape your financial future Instead of viewing it as temporary spending money, consider how it can move you closer to stability, homeownership, or longterm wealth building
Smart financial progress often happens in steady, intentional steps Your tax refund is simply one of them
ASKTHELOANOFFICER
I’DLIKETOREMODELMYHOMEANDUSEITSEQUITYTO COVERTHECOSTS.WHICHLOANPROGRAMISBESTFORME?
Remodelingwithhomeequityusuallycomesdowntotwo mainloanoptions:aHomeEquityLineofCredit(HELOC)or aCashOutRefinance.
HELOC(HomeEquityLineofCredit)
Workslikeacreditcardtiedtoyourhome borrow,repay,andborrow again.Greatforprojectsinstages.Youonlypayinterestonwhatyouuse, butratesareusuallyvariable,andyou’llmanagetwoloans.
CashOutRefinance
Replacesyourmortgagewithalargerone,givingyoualumpsumatclosing. Bestforbigremodelsneedingallfundsupfront,especiallyifyoucanlockina lowerrate Downsides:higherclosingcostsandalongermortgageterm
ForRemodelingProjects
AHELOCsuitsphasedupdates,whileacashoutrefinanceworksbetterforone largerenovation.Bothletyouleverageyourhome’sequity thechoice dependsonwhetheryouvalueflexibilityorasinglepayout
HOMEEQUITYAND SMARTOWNERSHIP: YOURQUESTIONSANSWERED
Homeownership can be more than just a roofoveryourhead;it’salsoawaytobuild value and create financial opportunities. Whether through borrowing against equity orinvestinginproperty,therightmortgage decisions can help you strengthen your longtermfinancialoutlook.
ASKTHELOANOFFICER
MYCHILDWILLBEATTENDINGTEXASA&M,ANDI’MCONSIDERING PURCHASINGAHOMEFORHIMTOLIVEINWHILERENTINGOUTA FEWROOMSTOCLASSMATES.ISTHISAGOODIDEA?
Purchasing a property near a college campus can be a practical waytocombinehousingwithalong-terminvestment
Insteadofpayingrentforseveralyears,owningthehomeallowsyoutobuildequity, andrentingafewroomstoclassmatesmayhelpoffsetthemonthlymortgage.
There are a couple of ways this can be structured. If your child is 18 or older and has established credit, they may be able to apply for the loanasthemainapplicant,withyou co-signing on the loan In this case, your income can be used to help qualifyforthemortgage.
Another option is purchasing the home as an investment property, whichtypicallyrequiresabouta20% down payment, and renting the extra rooms to your child and their classmates.
By the time your child graduates, this strategy may allow you to build equity in the property while gaining experience with rental property ownership.
Whetheryou’reremodelingwithequityorbuyingaproperty,therightloan dependsonyourgoals.AHELOCoffersflexibility,acashoutrefinanceprovides certainty,andinvestmentfinancingcansupportlongtermownership.
HerbedRice& Chickpea Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers and tomatoes are in season May–September, making this a perfect early‐summer main dish.
HOW TO DO IT:
TIME TO MAKE: 55 MIN
SERVES: 8
INGREDIENTS:
8 large bell peppers (any color)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked brown rice
2 cups cherry
tomatoes, halved
2 cups chickpeas, drained
1 cup crumbled feta
½ cup chopped parsley
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Optional: 1 lb ground turkey or beef, browned
TO SERVE:
Top with extra feta and parsley.
Pair with a simple cucumber‐yogurt salad
1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) Slice the tops off 8 peppers and remove the seeds
2. Sauté aromatics. Heat olive oil, cook onion until soft, then add garlic.
3. Build the filling by stirring in rice, tomatoes, chickpeas, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4 Remove from heat and fold in feta and parsley (Optional: add cooked meat if using )
5. Spoon the filling into peppers. Place upright in a baking dish with ½ cup water at the bottom Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes
6 Remove foil and bake for 10–15 minutes more, until peppers are tender
FreshBlueberry
Blueberries peak May–June, lemons are year‐round, and the flavor profile is bright, fresh, and early‐summer friendly
INGREDIENTS:
Cake
2 ½ cups all‐purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp fine salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup Greek yogurt
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
1 tbsp flour (for tossing blueberries)
Lemon Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
QUICK STEPS:
1 Prepare the pan Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease and flour a 10‐cup Bundt pan
2 Whisk dry: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy Beat in eggs one at a time
4 Mix in yogurt, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla
5 Combine dry ingredients to wet, stir until smooth
6. Toss blueberries with flour, fold into batter.
7. Bake 45–55 min, until toothpick comes out clean.
8 Cool for 15 min, invert onto a rack, and drizzle glaze
