67 going on 50… : HEATWAVE 2023: BLOGGER'S FAVOURITE NO COOKING MENU

Who wants to cook during a heatwave? Certainly not me.

I relay on these favourite no-cook dishes. They may not all be frugal, some being for a special occasion, but they are easy, often quick and mostly healthy and low-fat.

Some are all or part make-ahead.

STARTERS

I love this dip because the different smoked salmon flavours and textures make it very special. It's also creamy without being calorific.

Skinnier Smoked Salmon Dip

Just 4 inexpensive ingredients: tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber & sherry provide a thrilling cold No-Cook Tomato Gazpacho. It's ridiculously easy to make, smooth and creamy but dairy free. And utter ambrosial to consume. A Slimmers' Delight, it is served in chilled glasses with vodka or in small bowls.

No-Cook Glorious Tomato Gazpacho

SIDES

So simple, so sensational, so Vegan. Whenever I've served these

tomatoes over the years, everyone is stunned by their flavour and demands the recipe. They are a godsend when budgets are tight, turning supermarket toms into gourmet treats! With heritage or high-end toms, add a slosh of red wine vinegar for an even better taste sensation.

Mediterranean Tomatoes

This fruity crunchy slaw is a favourite because it's so quick and easy but also so pretty. Slighty sweet, it's loved by kid/ults. And the ingredients make a perfect portable lunch. Served alongside cold roast or poached chicken, it's wonderful.

Apple & Nut Slaw.

MAIN COURSE SALADS

This mouthwatering satisfying combo of protein, fruit and vegetables is one of the first main course salads posted on 67goingon50. It's basically an assembly job and there will be chopping but getting others involved lightens the workload. Much can be prepped in advance. Intended for a crowd, it's many bright flavours and textures are a delight.

'I'm on Holiday, too' Easy-Peasy Sunshine Salad

I've never been to Mexico but imagine this salad reflects the colours and flavours of the local cuisine. I adore it, partly because it contains things I normally wouldn't serve in a healthy salad: cheese, sweet and particularly heat -- but they are in small quantities. I like it as a main course, with good bread and butter, OR add lightly cooked cauliflower florets and mange tout plus calamari or prawns.

SWEET SOUR & SPICY CORN AVOCADO SALAD

TREATS

I've always loved chocolate mousse but as a cholesterol-phobe, usually avoid it. But this recipe was specially created by 67 for slimmers: it has no cream (unless you want it as a garnish) or egg yolks. It is still rich, dark and fabulous on the tongue. It proves healthy doesn't mean insipid. Pastry biscuits and berry cream optional.

Chocolate Raspberry & Brandy Mousse, fat & yolk free

One of my all-time favourite 67 cakes is this indulgent tender Swirl Cake, streaked with plum & cinnamon and dusted with coconut. It makes wonderful use of a fruit often at bargain prices in supermarkets. I did notice that bakng is involved...but it is worth it. Make it ahead, in stages, and cook in the cool of the evening before needed. Decorate before serving. Trust me; you won't regret it.