The best recipes I reviewed this summer

While I dare not suggest that summer is over, as even here in Saskatchewan, Canada, we've got at least three more weeks of nice warm weather, I did want to write about the best recipes I reviewed over the past three months. It may give you some ideas on what to make for any Labor Day celebrations this weekend.
   Here the recipes I've written about since the beginning of June that will knock everyone's socks, or tastebuds, off:

American-Style Ice Cream: Even I was a little dumbfounded by how well this recipe worked. Using a few simple ingredients and an ice cream maker, this recipe yielded creamy, flavorful ice cream that was better than store-bought anyday. I made the blackberry-sage variety, but there are other varieties to make too.

Grilled Romaine and Halloumi Cheese with Mint Vinaigrette: The first recipe where we tried grilling halloumi, and romaine lettuce, for that matter, and we were amazed at the resulting flavor. This is a weeknight-easy recipe that could also be served at a casual dinner party.

Grilled Halloumi with Watermelon and Basil-Mint Oil: Halloumi hit a home run again. This time, its salty, gooey goodness is paired with refreshing watermelon.

Pink Lady Milkshakes: These strawberry milkshakes spiked with dark rum are a really fun way to serve dessert at a backyard barbecue. I served these to my in-laws and sister-in-law while on summer vacation, and they loved it. Skip the rum for children or those who would prefer it non-alcoholic.

Ice Cream Soda with Lime, Mint and Ginger: Another fun dessert to serve for a backyard barbecue, these retro-but-modern sodas are definite refreshers.

Sage and Garlic Grilled Tomatoes: Grilling tomatoes releases an even deeper flavor, and fresh sage is a winning crown. Serve these with steaks and people will be overjoyed.