July in South Carolina is more than sunshine and fireworks — it’s the peak of produce perfection. The markets are bursting with ripe peaches, juicy tomatoes, and sweet summer berries, all just waiting to become the star of your next summer dish. Whether you’re picking your own at a local farm or stocking up at the Anderson County Farmers Market, July is the perfect time to celebrate the best of what the Palmetto State has to offer.
Here are a few simple, Southern-inspired recipes that bring out the best in July’s local bounty.
Peach & Burrata Salad with Basil and Balsamic
This salad is summer on a plate — sweet, creamy, tangy, and fresh.
Ingredients:
2–3 ripe South Carolina peaches, sliced
1 ball of burrata cheese (or fresh mozzarella if unavailable)
Handful of fresh basil leaves
Drizzle of balsamic glaze
Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Arrange peach slices on a serving platter.
Tear burrata and scatter over peaches.
Top with torn basil leaves.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper, serve chilled.
Try peaches from Chattooga Belle Farm or The Happy Berry for extra local flair.
Southern Tomato Pie
A savory, cheesy summer classic perfect for brunch or a light supper.
Ingredients:
1 pre-baked pie crust
4–5 ripe SC tomatoes, sliced and drained on paper towels
1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mayo (Duke’s, of course!)
2 tbsp fresh chopped basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Layer tomato slices and onion in pie crust. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
In a bowl, mix cheese and mayo, then spread over tomatoes.
Bake 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tomatoes from Carolina Fresh Farms or a neighbor’s backyard garden? Even better!
Mixed Berry Shortcakes with Sweet Cream
Nothing says summer like berries and cream, and this easy dessert is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
1 pint strawberries, sliced
1 pint blueberries
1 pint blackberries
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
Store-bought or homemade shortcakes or biscuits
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Mix berries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit 30 minutes to macerate.
Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
To assemble: Slice shortcakes, spoon berries on bottom half, add whipped cream, then top with the other half.
Look for berries from Chattooga Belle Farm or local pick-your-own farms for peak freshness!
Support Local, Eat Local
These recipes aren’t just delicious — they’re rooted in community. Buying from local farms and markets helps support small businesses and ensures you’re getting the freshest, most flavorful ingredients possible.
Want to elevate the meal even more? Try pairing it with a cocktail made with Palmetto Distillery peach moonshine or a glass of South Carolina muscadine wine.
This July, let your meals celebrate the season. Simple, vibrant, and full of flavor — just like a Southern summer should be.