Summer is a time for BBQs, Picnics, and Parties.  Stay fit with some quick, easy, delicious, and healthy summer recipes!

Grill, Girl! - Summertime is full of BBQ’s and Grilling parties, so bring some healthy additions to throw on the grill so that you don’t fill up on potato salad and pie.  Tomatoes, Squash, Zucchini, Mushrooms, Asparagus, Ripe Plantains,  and Peppers all taste delicious when grilled! Simply add a little Oil, Salt, and Pepper, and toss them on.  

Israeli Salad - This is a great summer salad because it‘s cool and refreshing.  Chop or Dice 3 Cucumbers,  3 Tomatoes, 1 Green Pepper, and 1 Red Pepper into a large bowl.  Finely chop one bunch of Parsley and mix it in.  Season with a little Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, and Salt to taste.   No additional dressing needed.

Frozen Grapes -  a simple, easy and refreshing snack! Simply store your grapes in the freezer and they are like little mini poppable popsicles.  The best part is, you don’t have to feel guilty about eating too many!

Power Couscous -  Couscous is so easy to make, and you can feed many people a gourmet meal on a tight budget.  First  measure out equal parts couscous to water.  Boil the water, then turn off the heat and pour in the couscous.  Let it sit for 5 minutes while the couscous absorbs the water.  Fluff with a fork and add salt.  Chill the couscous.  Then mix in apples, sunflower seeds, goji berries, and mint.  Add a little lowfat or fat free yogurt on top for a creamy kick.

Chili Fruit - In LA you can buy a bag of this spicy snack from stands all over town. You can also make your own.  First make a fruit salad with Watermelon, Mango, Pineapple, Cucumber, Cantaloupe, and Jicama. (These are the fruits they use in LA, but it is always best to use fresh and local fruits that you can find at the Farmer’s Market)  Then squeeze in some fresh lime, chili powder, and salt. Voila!

Fruit Smoothies- Mix equal parts fruit to ice in the blender, and blend it on ice crushing mode. So many people think they need to add sugar, milk, or honey to make it taste good.  If your fruits are ripe and fresh, then they have enough flavor alone to be delicious!