If you can't handle the heat...

Luckily it's been relatively mild for NC at this time of year. The past few days have been partly cloudy and in the low 80s - a well appreciated respite from the killer heat of the last few weeks. When it gets crazy hot like that, I can't even think about cooking. Here's a recipe I got from Real Simple that will keep you cool on those dog days, but still make you feel like you're eating a gourmet meal. Plus, it's ridiculously easy:

Cold Summer Gazpacho

Ingredients:

6 yellow tomatoes, cored and quartered (got mine from Swart's)
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped (substituted two banana peppers)
2 Tbs. red wine vinegar
1 1/2 tsp salt
Basil and feta to garnish

Blend up the tomatoes and bell pepper in a food processor until smooth. Pour into a serving bowl and stir in vinegar and salt. Chill for awhile if you want, but it's okay to eat it now. Spoon into individual bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and feta. Pretty and delicious!