Banana Ice Cream
When it's hot, ice cream is often a favorite. Try this super easy, super inexpensive, healthier alternative. My kids and husband give it 2 thumbs up.
4 bananas
1 tsp vanilla extract
toppings of choice (fresh fruit, walnuts, etc.)
Peel the bananas, cut into 1inch chunks and freeze for at least 2 hours. When frozen, toss the bananas into a food processor or blender with the vanilla. Mix until creamy, it will take a few minutes. Serve immediately and top with fruit or nuts if desired. Makes 4-6 servings.
Refreshing Spring Rolls
This is one of my family's new favorites. We stuff them full of fresh veggies, herbs and light proteins like grilled shrimp or tuna. Get creative, you can stuff them with just about anything you would put in a tortilla wrap, except they are lighter and are great served cold. Here's my favorite combo.
6 Rice paper wraps
1 cup grated cabbage
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup grated cucumber
6 fresh basil leaves chopped
6 fresh mint leaves chopped
2 T rice vine vinegar
2 tsp. sesame seeds
Grill or saute shrimp (add a bit of sea salt & lemon juice if desired). When cooked chop into bite size pieces and place in refrigerator to chill. Mix cabbage, carrots, cucumber, herbs, vinegar and sesame seeds in a large bowl. Let mixture marinate. When shrimp is cool to the touch, stir the pieces into the mixture. Prepare rice paper wraps as directed on the package and fill with approx. 2 T of the mixture, roll them like a tortilla wrap closing both ends. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a later meal.
You could also try a light twist on a Cesar wrap with grilled chicken, chopped romaine hearts, red onions and a dash of grated Parmesan cheese. My daughters favorite is wild caught canned tuna with avocado, tomato and sriracha (a Japanese hot sauce).
Experiment with different dipping sauces as well. I like to make a homemade carrot, ginger dressing, but again you can get creative.
Infused Water
Instead of sports drinks or sodas that are full of sugar, sodium and artificial flavor, try infusing your water with the good stuff. Fill a pitcher with filtered water, add chopped fruits, veggies and or herbs and pop it in the fridge for all day flavor. Toss in as many ingredients as you like and let the fruit steep, no muddling, mixing or blending needed. The water will take on the mild flavor and scent of the fruits & herbs.
Here's a few combos to try,:
Watermelon & mint
Cucumber & basil
Lime & cilantro
Peach & mint
Apple & Lemon
Infused water is great for entertaining too. Ice cold water in a glass pitcher with color coordinated fruits and herbs can be a beautiful part of the decor and a great way to encourage your guest to stay hydrated.
TIP: If your craving carbonation, drop your fruits & herbs at the bottom of your glass and pour in sparkling water.
I hope your family enjoys these recipes as much as mine does! Have a great summer!!!
