Cooling Summer Meals

Here are five fresh, healthy, plant-based cooling summer meals to try.

1. Watermelon Gazpacho: Blend together fresh watermelon, cucumber, tomato, bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, and a touch of jalapeño for a refreshing and hydrating chilled soup.

2. Veggie Sushi Rolls: Fill nori seaweed sheets with a variety of crunchy vegetables like cucumber, carrot, bell pepper, and avocado. Roll them up and serve with soy sauce or a wasabi dipping sauce.

3. Quinoa Salad with Citrus Dressing: Combine cooked quinoa with colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, and fresh herbs. Dress it up with a tangy citrus dressing made with lemon or lime juice, olive oil, and a hint of sweetness from maple syrup or agave nectar.

4. Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce: Wrap rice paper sheets around a mix of crisp veggies like lettuce, cucumber, carrot, bell pepper, and fresh herbs. Serve with a creamy peanut dipping sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness.

5. Chilled Avocado and Cucumber Soup: Blend together ripe avocados, cucumber, fresh herbs like cilantro or mint, lime juice, and vegetable broth until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, chill, and enjoy a creamy and cooling soup.

These meals are packed with fresh ingredients, provide hydration, and are perfect for hot summer days. They offer a variety of flavors and textures to keep your taste buds satisfied while keeping you cool and nourished.