September is the perfect in-between month for home cooks. While fall officially arrives later in the month, your garden is overflowing with the season's final bounty, and it's time to start thinking about cozy fall flavors. From fresh corn and tomatoes to early apples and peppers, there's no better time to transform nature's abundance into delicious, Southern-inspired dishes.

Making the Most of September's Garden Bounty

September is harvest time in the garden. Tomatoes, squash, peppers, apples, and corn are all at their peak, making this the perfect moment for preserving, cooking, and enjoying the year's final fresh produce. Whether you're foraging from your own garden or shopping at local farmers markets, these ingredients form the foundation of memorable fall meals.

End of Summer Vegetable Salad

I'm transforming my Summer Vegetable Salad into my "End of Summer" Vegetable Salad, inspired by recipe #18 from a lovely notebook my mother gave me when I was first married. Originally called "Fresh Corn Salad," I've added my own curious twists to make the most of those end-of-summer vegetables.

Essential Fall Condiments and Preserves

Fall is the perfect time to create condiments that will enhance your meals throughout the cooler months. These recipes help preserve the season's flavors while adding depth to everything from grilled meats to cheese boards.

Southern Chow Chow

Chow Chow is one of my absolute favorites – a condiment dating back to the late 1770s in England with a depth of flavor as rich as its history. Often confused with relish, Chow Chow uses different vegetables and has a more complex flavor profile.

My version combines fresh green tomatoes, red and green peppers, and a blend of spices and sugar. I've added tomatillos for a delicious tart contrast that balances the sweetness perfectly. My grandmother always kept a jar on her kitchen table, and my favorite way to enjoy it is on grilled hotdogs with our Bourbon Honey Mustard.

Peach and Pepper Jelly

This Peach and Pepper Jelly combines summer's sweetest peaches with fall's crisp peppers. It's perfect for appetizers, burgers, or paired with our Bourbon Apple Butter on a fall cheese board.

Pecan Pesto

After a long, hot summer, basil is typically in abundance. This Pecan Pesto gives the classic recipe a curious Southern twist using Schermer Pecans – they're fresh, creamy, and absolutely delicious.

Fig Jam

My Fig Jam is one of my fall favorites. Figs are at their peak in late summer and early fall, making this the perfect time to capture their sweetness. This jam is incredible on Buttermilk Biscuits or as part of a fall cheese board.

Fresh Fall Salads and Soups

As temperatures begin to cool, it's time to transition from purely summer fare to heartier, more satisfying dishes that still celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Apple Kale Salad

This Apple Kale Salad is perfect for enjoying on the front porch with cooler temperatures and a good magazine. Apples, kale, and pecans are the stars, but I customize it based on what's in my refrigerator. The classic dressing can be made ahead and stored for future use.

Vegetarian Veggie Soup

Even when temperatures haven't fully cooled, I can't resist a good soup. My Vegetarian Veggie Soup is pure comfort food – it reminds me of my mother's vegetable soup that marked the beginning of fall cooking season. While the recipe calls for canned tomatoes, why not use the abundance of fresh tomatoes available right now?

Elevate Your Fall Entertaining

Fall is the perfect time for cozy gatherings and seasonal cocktails. Pair these recipes with our signature Boozy Cherries® – Bourbon Cocktail Cherries for the perfect Old Fashioned or Manhattan cocktail. These handcrafted Kentucky bourbon cherries add the perfect Southern touch to your fall entertaining.

Our Bourbon Apple Butter is another fall essential – perfect for spreading on biscuits, adding to cheese boards, or incorporating into your favorite fall desserts.

Your Fall Cooking Adventure Starts Now

September's abundance won't last forever, so take advantage of this perfect moment to preserve, cook, and savor the season's best flavors. Whether you're making your first batch of Chow Chow or perfecting your apple salad, these recipes will help you transition beautifully from summer's end into fall's cozy embrace.

Cheers!

MK