Sooo….its hot out. Like, I-thought-I-moved-back-to-Chicago-but-this-weather-feels-just-like-Miami hot. Not that I’m complaining really. At least in Chicago we don’t have the oppressive humidity and the constant rainstorms. Its hot but bearable. Especially in Oak Park.
Our community totally rocks in the summertime. We have two amazing park district pools, both with tricked out baby pool areas. The park around the corner from us has a “splash pad,” which is basically just a series of gigantic fountains on concrete where the kids (and their parents) can cool off. Our library has awesome storytimes in the AC for days when you just can’t be in your own house anymore. And at home, between the fenced backyard with the new patio and the front porch swing, we love eating supper outside or just enjoying a cold drink on the porch after the sun sets and things cool off a bit. Its nifty to hear the neighborhood kids playing tag together…its almost more like what I would guess the 1970s would have been like for a kid, versus present day. Anyway, if I haven’t stressed it enough, Oak Park rocks.
But I’ve totally digressed from the original purpose of this post. So…its HOT. And when its HOT, its a great time for popsicles! I have a set of Cuisipro (client) popsicle molds that I’m constantly filling with something. Plain old orange juice works well in a pinch but lately I’ve loved blending up leftover melon chunks to make interesting, healthy snacks. Since the melon blends up nice and smooth its a great way to sneak some extra fiber into a yummy treat (versus just using fruit juice). This version is one of my favorites — honeydew blended with fresh mint, lime juice and a touch of sugar. They are sweet but still refreshing. I think Lilly and I will enjoy a couple of them out on the patio as soon as she wakes from her nap.
How are you staying cool this summer? Any interesting hot-day snack ideas or activities you can share?
Honeydew Mint Popsicles
Makes 4 to 6 pops
1/2 of a fresh honeydew, seeded, rind removed and cut into small chunks
2 or 3 fresh mint leaves
1 Tablespoon sugar (more or less to your taste)
Juice from 1/2 a lime
Combine all ingredients in a blender and process until the mixture is very smooth and the mint leaves are chopped into very small pieces. Pour mixture into popsicle molds (or paper cups with a popsicle stick in the center) and freeze for at least 1 hour.
Pops are best enjoyed outside with lots of sunshine and access to a garden hose.
Hope
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