This dish was inspired by a recent farmers' market find: a bag of zucchini and stunning color-blocked summer squash. I was so mesmerized by the duo-tone veggies that I bought a bag without thinking of what I would make, knowing I wanted something to show off the beautiful colors. Sometimes the only inspiration you need is the subject itself.

Our garden is still a little way out; I suspect the combination of a shaded area in August heat causes the veggies stress. Yet, the blushing cherry tomatoes and first dry pole beans reassure me of our persistent little plants. I've been slowly harvesting the first cranberry beans, leaving them inside to collect until I have enough to store. Striped scarlet and off-white shells turned to light brown husks in a matter of weeks, but I snuck a peek at the beans inside. Like little quail eggs, the beans are mostly white, dappled with the most vibrant cranberry-colored speckles!

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