The dog days are here and as we swelter in the 100 degree temperatures it occurs to me that it is way too hot to cook. The tomatoes are virtually cooking on the vine, and all the vegetables are suffering. The cats press against the foundation of the house for any wisp of cool air that might escape. They are stretched to full length exposing as much body surface as possible. I have to admit, I'm tempted to run through the sprinkler myself as long as no one is watching. So, in a effort to keep cool, we are eating tomato sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches, cold fruit, and lots of salad. A friend shared her meatless taco salad recipe with me, and it is so good and just suited for these sweltering summer evenings when cooking is beyond good sense.
Taco Salad
(just mix the ingredients in any proportion you like for the number of people you will be serving.)
lettuce (you can use any kind, but I like to use a good Romaine)
green onions
tomato
shredded cheddar cheese
1 can regular ranch style beans drained (I use the ones with the black label)
crushed yellow corn chips
creamy Italian dressing
Add the corn chips and dressing just before serving.