Raw Deals

 It's too hot to cook or bake anything. What to do? Eat raw. Those fruits and veggies have a lot of benefits - one being an easy meal or treat to prepare.

Take advantage of the harvests right now. Tomatoes are coming into their own and there's so much to do with them. Try a bruschetta for lunch or an easy dinner. This is a mix of chopped vine ripe tomatoes with olive oil , and basil, also in full bloom right now. Garlic give it flavor and if you want you can add a drop of balsamic vinegar and chopped onion.It's usually served on grilled slices of Italian bread but the slices really don't have to be. Beefsteak tomatoes can be stuffed with tuna salad mixed with chopped celery and mayonnaise. These are a cool dinner that can be made without much fuss.If you do insist on cooking , then just boil up some pasta with salsa cruda. Again take the summer favorite the tomato and have it marinate in olive oil ad minced garlic for two to three hours. The pasta's heat along with a cup of the pasta water will cook it. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and it;s agreat summery dinner. Do give gazpacho a try during these steamy days.It;s an easy blend of  four tomatoes, one sliced  cucumber, one chopped green pepper and a clove of minced garlic. A cup of olive oil creates a smooth silky bisque like texture as it's blended.

We still crave sweets even though it's broiling outside. Yes we could easily eat ice cream every night or frozen candy bars but there is an alternative: fresh fruit. It's not only tasty but also healthier than frozen dairy treats every night. You can still enjoy frozen treats though. A frozen chocolate covered banana is a yummy end to any barbecue. It's an easy heat of chocolate and vegetable oil in the microwave until the chocolate is melted and glossy. Dip whole bananas that have been frozen for fifteen minutes into it. You can them roll them in chopped nuts, flaked coconuts or sprinkles for extra fun.Bananas also make for a good non dairy ice cream. Slice and freeze four of them overnight. Put into the blender or food processor a day later. The result is a  cool creamy spoonful. Add some chocolate syrup, and  vegan whipped cream for a really decadent treat.Of course a mixed melon salad is the perfect treat or dessert on a ridiculously hot August day. Mix chunks of  refrigerated watermelon ,cantalope and honeydew in a bowl and serve in cups. Cherries are another snack that's perfect as a nibble or ending a meal. The same goes for frozen grapes. Just freese then and take out when you need something cold and sweet.

Eat raw if it's too hot. Go for fresh fruits and veggies to sustain you.It's not only cool but good for you.