summer – Page 18 – GUTSy Performance Nutrition

Wondering what to do with DIY whole-grain mustard, besides eat a sandwich? I may have been chronically faulted for my obsession with sandwiches–but there is something I do love using whole-grain mustard for even more. And that’s salad dressing. My theory on salad dressing is why buy a whole bottle, when you can have more choice (and better taste) in making it yourself? And it takes seconds to whip up a fresh batch. Literally.

Add the best summery fresh plums, toss some mixed greens together, add a nice glass of wine (I’m drinking this) and you have the makings of simply the perfect summer starter.

Simple. Quick. And if you’re really feeling lazy, grill up a nice chicken or steak, and you have a meal. Which leaves us all enjoying summer even more!

Honey Poppy seed Mixed Greens with Summer Plums, adapted from Celebrate the Rain

2 Tbs. honey
1 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbs. + 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
1 Tbs. whole-grain mustard
1/2 tsp. poppy seeds
Squeeze of lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Mixed greens
Dark plums, thinly sliced

Whisk the dressing ingredients together. Toss loosely with greens in bowl. Plate the salads. Add the plums.

I’ve admitted it before, perhaps more than once. I have a fondness for oats. and breakfast cereals. and muesli.

And perhaps because I’ve woken (for a second day in a row) to sunshine and a blast of warm air, I’m in the mood for a light, cool, refreshingly summer-y breakfast.

Cue the pineapple, blueberries, oranges, and oats!

Pineapple, Orange, Blueberry Muesli

2 1/2 cups oats

1/4 cup oat bran

1/4 cup flax seed meal

~2/3 cup dried pineapple, candied orange peel, and blueberries

~1/3 cup raw cashews, toasted and chopped

Toss all ingredients into a container to mix evenly. Use your hands to separate the mixed fruits. The candied orange is especially sweet, so use a light hand.
Serve with yogurt and more (fresh) fruit, if desired!