As we roll towards the hotter part of the midwestern summer we wanted to share a few recipes to help keep you cool.. Outside of the hot box of course!

Here is a quick, easy smoothie recipe:
2 cups cubed watermelon

5 frozen strawberries

1/2 cup coconut water

Blend until smooth! You can ALWAYS add more fruits, adjust the liquid if you want it thinner or thicker.  If you want to boost up your smoothie add your favorite protein powder and/or some flax or chia seeds.  Smoothies are delicious, easy and refreshing!

A yummy cold soup:  Avocado Vichyssoise

3 Potatoes, peeled and cubed

3 leeks, trimmed and chopped

Olive Oil

4 Cups of your favorite stock

2 Avocado

Cilantro

Coat the bottom of a soup pot with olive oil.  Cook leeks and potatoes over a medium high heat for a few minutes until softened.  Add your stock and bring to a boil.  Cover, lower the heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the veggies are soft.  Puree the mixture then allow it to cool completely.  Directly before serving stir in the flesh of coarsely chopped avocado and garnish with cilantro.

Cold Pasta Salad

1 package of cherry or baby heirloom tomatoes, cut each tomato in half length wise

Fresh Mozzarella (leave this out for vegan option), chunked

Handful of Spinach, coarsely chopped

Handful of fresh basil, chopped

1 lb pasta/gluten free pasta (I like bowties or penne)

Enough balsamic vinaigrette (or Balsamic vinegar and olive oil) to coat the mixture.

Boil the pasta in salted water until completely cooked.  Strain and allow pasta to cool in fridge for about an hour (just make sure its cooled completely).  Mix in tomatoes, mozzarella, spinach, basil and dressing.  Stir until fully mixed.  

Enjoy a few recipes and stay cool out there!