Beating the Heat

Growing up, we never had air conditioning in our house.  Because of the way it was designed, the house managed to stay pretty cool, but on back to back super hot days, the temperature would start to rise.  It mostly affected the upstairs, so we always had a slew a fans going at night. Because of that I got pretty used to sleeping in the heat, and also pretty addicted to sleeping with the sound of a fan running in the background.  To this day I sleep with a fan running each and every night.  Even in the dead of winter (at that time though, it’s not blowing on me).  Luckily Brandon enjoys sleeping with a fan too, or else things may have ended a long time ago!

The east coast is getting hit with another heat wave this week, so in preparation, we’re keeping things nice and light with easy dinners that don’t require turning on the oven.  To kick things off I made this simple salad last night that consists of avocado, grapefruit, and an easy lemon vinaigrette.  I feel like the Contessa has been a little absent around here lately, so this recipe is even more timely. Enjoy!

Avocado and Grapefruit Salad adapted from the Barefoot Contessa

Serves 2

1 large ripe avocado

2 grapefruits

juice of a 1/4 of a lemon

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 tsp sea salt

several grinds fresh black pepper

I like to serve this as an arranged salad, not tossed.  It’s not only easier, but showcases the ingredients best.  Also, this can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate more guests.

Begin by peeling and slicing the grapefruit into segments.  Next slice each avocado half lengthwise.  Place the avocado on the platter first, creating a thin layer down the middle.  Place the grapefruit segments evenly on both sides. Whisk together the ingredients for the dressing, and pour evenly over the avocado.  Can be served immediately or within the next hour of making.