Oh my goodness, this week and crazy heat wave are almost over! Today was the record temp finale for this scary weather and I felt it even working out at the gym. The last part of my treadmill run degraded into more walking intervals and a slower pace because allergies and the heat started getting to me. Last night we ended up not going for a walk because it was still 100 degrees at 9pm and Leela can’t handle that. Even though it’s for their safety, I still feel guilty that they can’t get enough outdoor time. Thankfully back to our usual 90s dry heat next week with lows in the 50s. Bring it. Miko says bring more watermelon.
This recipe is inspired by the weather because cool salads are perfect summer food and I have a ton of fresh basil in our AeroGarden to use up. It’s packed with fresh basil, raw garlic, apple cider vinegar and other vibrant, fresh ingredients. No oil or sugar, of course. Which upsets me about many of the basil vinaigrette recipes out there, they’re loaded 1/4 cup or more of oil. That’s ridiculous! Especially when they can be loaded with a creamier, healthier whole fats from hemp seeds.
Super Hemp Basil Dressing
- 1 cup basil leaves
- 1 clove of garlic
- ½ cup shelled hemp seeds
- 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- dash of red pepper flakes, to taste
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup water, as needed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place all ingredients into a high speed blender and blend to a smooth and creamy texture. Serve and enjoy. Makes 4 servings.
You can adjust the thickness of this dressing to preference with a little more or less water.
It has a rich and creamy basil flavor with a bright, garlicy kick.
Cool and refreshing while still having a warming flare – great way to enjoy the bright colors of summer.
Wow! That is crazy weather. I can’t even imagine training in that heat. Salads are definitely required to survive 100 degree temperatures, and yours look delicious.
I know, running in an air conditioned gym is even draining when it’s that hot! Thanks on the salads.