Cooling Foods for Summer

Summer is the season to introduce some cooling foods into your diet. Here are some suggestions to keep you cool and balanced all summer long. These fruits and vegetables will help adjust your body temperature and protect you during the long, hot summer days: snowpeas, asparagus, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, corn, celery, cucumber, zucchini, potato, carrot, pear, watermelon and watermelon juice, cantaloupe, peach, and orange.

Also cooling foods are: seaweeds, tofu, mung beans, chrysanthemum tea, mint tea, and licorice tea.

If you are feeling dehydrated, a tea made with watermelon rind will also do the trick. Some good spices to use during summer months are: cilantro, mint, and dill.

Here is a cooling dish for a hot summer day: 1 medium broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces 1 medium carrot, cut into bite size pieces

Topping: 1 lb. White tofu, excess water removed 1-2 teaspoons miso 1 teaspoon ginger, grated a little oil cilantro, chopped for garnish

Steam broccoli and carrots; be sure not to over cook broccoli. Put on a plate and set aside. Steam tofu for 2-3 minutes, then blend the topping ingredients at high speed, using a wooded spoon to help mix well, then pour over cooked vegetables. Garnish with cilantro. Bon Apetit!