Rachael Ray Summer Hosting Tips and Recipe

If you’re an aspiring chef, home cook or a fan of cooking shows, you know Rachael Ray. Maybe from her widely popular 30-Minute Meals series, cookware brand, published cookbooks or TV appearances, it’s undeniable that Ray has made an impact on the American food world. 

We got the chance to interview Ray on one of her newest ventures, a rebrand of her pet food brand, Nutrish, which introduced several new products as well as the debut of sleek new packaging. She also shared with us her favorite seasonal produce picks, a delicious salmon recipe, and tips for Summer entertaining. 

Read about the rebrand and more in the exclusive conversation below. 

Can you tell us about the new additions to the Nutrish pet food line, and what motivated you to add them?

Our recent rebrand includes refreshed packaging and a renewed focus on real ingredients that deliver incredibly delicious nourishment. Additionally, we’ve introduced delicious new products consumers are looking for including, Nutrish™ Whole Health Blend Large Breed and Nutrish™ Everyday Immune Support for dogs, as well as Nutrish™ Everyday Digestion for cats with added pre- and probiotics. These updates reflect our commitment to making great tasting food with great benefits more accessible and helping our pets lead happy, healthy lives. 

What’s an underrated kitchen gadget or appliance that you recommend for beginner cooks?

I actually have a Rachael Ray Cucina nonstick skillet. It’s a total kitchen workhorse—heats up fast, cleans even faster and the nonstick surface means less mess and less fuss. It’s perfect for beginners who want to whip up everything without the hassle.

What’s your favorite seasonal produce to cook with in the summer?

I love when tomatoes start to ripen. I just made my first fried green tomato dish of the season. I add fennel pollen, red pepper, pecorino cheese and granulated garlic and onion to the breading and then top with ricotta cheese, chives and lemon zest. Delish. 

Do you have any go-to summer desserts?

I am not a big dessert girl. My sister Maria does all the baking. She does this delicious Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake with a Lemon Sauce that uses gin and  is just amazing.

Do you have any recommendations for easy dinner options for summer entertaining?

For summer gatherings, keep it simple and cook as much as you can ahead of time so you have time to hang out with your friends instead of being in the kitchen. I recommend dishes that are both flavorful and easy to prepare. Grilled meats, fresh salads and seafood dishes like Panzanella Salad with Spicy Mussels are crowd-pleasers. 

What inspired your recipe for the Soy-Ginger Salmon with Sesame Cabbage Slaw?

I wanted to create something that was packed with flavor and easy to prepare. The combination of soy and ginger gives the salmon a savory kick, while the sesame cabbage slaw adds a lite and refreshing crunch. It’s a dish that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen which is perfect for a busy weeknight. 

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for clarity and length.