Summer Recipes

When life becomes hectic or it’s just “too hot outside to cook” fast food is a frequent go-to option for many Americans. Picking up burgers seems easier than preparing a healthy meal. By taking advantage of a couple of helpful kitchen tools like a Blendtec blender or a KitchenAid food processor, dinner can be ready in less than 10 minutes… and we are going to prove it.

Cool Cucumber Soup

The cucumber, a member of the squash family is a great source of water, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Potassium. Cool down and de-stress with a refreshing cucumber soup on a hot summer night. Cucumber soup can bring nutrient and water levels to a balance after a hectic day. The mint is a great tasting herb that complements the cucumber flavor and is health beneficial with its cooling, calming, and stomach soothing properties.

• 3 pounds cucumbers
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ tbsp rice vinegar
• ¾ cup fresh mint leaves
• 3 tsp sea salt
• Pinch of cayenne pepper

Put all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.

Roasted Pepper and Garlic Hummus

Packed with protein and Vitamin A, a roasted pepper and garlic hummus is great immune system reviver. Dip raw vegetables or pita bread into hummus for a great appetizer, snack, or side.

• 1 can chickpeas or garbanzo beans
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 jalapeno peppers
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/3 cup olive oil

Roast peppers for 30 minutes to an hour, or until the pepper skin is blackened. Scoop pepper flesh from pepper skin and put into food processor.

Process all ingredients in a until uniformly smooth. Chill in refrigerator at least one hour before serving.

Easy Pita Bread

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Put flour in a medium mixing bowl and make a well in the center of the flour mound. Add water and olive oil to the well. Working with fingers, mix until dough is combined. Knead for 10 minutes.

Separate dough into 8 pieces, and place on floured surface. Cover dough with a damp kitchen towel for 30 minutes. Roll dough into 10 inch rounds.

Heat a skillet over medium heat and brush both sides of flatbread with butter or olive oil. Cook for 2-4 minutes on each side until brown “eye” circles form.