I don't know about you, but the hotter it gets, the  less hungry I am and the more I don't want to cook!!
That's when I break out the Vita-Mix and whip up some great summer smoothies.  I start almost every day with a green drink called the Stomach Cleanser.  My 2 year old son loves it, so you can be sure you will love it too!!  Here is the recipe:
Ingredients:

• 3 cups water
 (1 of these cups can be plain coconut water for added electrolytes and  little sweetness)
• Juice of 1 lemon
, or less depending on tastes
• 1” piece of ginger
 or less if too strong
• 4” piece of cucumber

• ¼ cup mint
 (optional)
• 1 cup kale or other green of choice
• 1-2 handfuls ice

 
Directions: Combine all of the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
*TIP! Freeze the ginger prior to using and it will blend more smoothly!

Summer is finally here in full swing.  After an unseasonably chilly May, we've got some sunshine!! Summer always gets me in the mood for lots of fresh, raw veggies and fruits, and for grilling!  Strawberry season is among us and they couldn't taste better right out of the garden.  Did you know that berries are a low-glycemic, low-fructose, nutrient-powerhouse?   This time of year, I love to make fresh salads with walnuts and strawberries and  greens also straight out of the garden.  Add some blueberries or strawberries to smoothies with coconut milk and avocado, for a rich delicious treat.
Here's the recipe for the salad that I love!:

• 5-6 cups mixed greens
• 1/2 cup of strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup of walnut pieces
• 1/2 cucumber, chopped
• Sliced red onion 
• Crumbled Goat's milk feta (optional)
• Grilled chicken breast, chopped

Add all ingredients together in bowl or on plate.


For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (I use California Olive Ranch_)_
• 1 tablespoon of Bragg's raw apple cider vinegar 
• 1 tablespoon of organic balsamic vinegar
• Herbs of choice.

Whisk together and use on salad.

A serving of pasta has a whopping 40-50g of carbohydrates!  It rapidly spikes your blood sugar and insulin levels and leaves you crashing.  Whether you’re eating to improve your overall health, balance your gut flora or to manage blood sugars and lose weight, try “zoodles” instead!  “Zoodles” or zucchini noodles, are a great way to get additional vegetable servings each day and are super tasty!  The additional fiber will fill you longer and help you reach your goals.  Use a spiralizer to turn your favorite veggies, such as zucchini, sweet potatoes, yellow squash, and more.  I love this one!