The hot, dog days of summer in Florida are here. The humidity is so thick at times you feel like you are drowning and there’s no way out. Your appetite decreases in the heat of the summer, and it’s time to turn your family menus into lighter and more refreshing fare. The experts suggest eating smaller meals more frequently to help keep your energy level high and your body temperature feeling cooler.
Of course, there have been many creative recipes developed over the years to help our bodies cool off in this steamy weather. Cold beverages, cool summer salads, fresh fruits and melons, and decadent cold and creamy desserts are featured on most summer menus because our bodies are craving rehydration. Watermelon, grapefruit, light crispy vegetables, and salads are a prime source of restorative fluids. However, proteins shouldn’t be overlooked when rehydrating and milk, yogurt, and lighter cheeses are also excellent additions to the dietary offerings.
The Italian lifestyle lends itself to warmer weather when a home’s oven is seldom used; grilling lighter meals comprised of seafood, poultry, and seasonal vegetables replaces the heartier soups, stews, and heavier sauce-laden pastas. Smaller portions are offered. Cold pasta salads tossed with refreshing vinaigrettes are prevalent and dining al fresco is certainly a welcome change. Cold meat and cheese platters replace roasts and polenta.
When you think about it though, having someone else do all the cooking is the best way to beat the summer heat! Christini’s Ristorante Italiano is always ready to serve you the best in Northern Italian Cuisine. Step through our doors into an inviting ambiance that’s always set at the perfect temperature. Savor the flavors of Italy presented by the most talented chefs and attentive staff in Florida. We are proud to be one of the top Orlando restaurants, and we are eager for you to come join us for dinner.
Oh, and don’t forget that Italian desserts also make a seasonal shift to the cooler and lighter side during this time of the year. Italians are more likely to be found enjoying fresh fruit and berries for dessert. Those who crave sweeter items appreciate flavored ices (granita), cold panna cotta drizzled with fresh fruit coulis, zabaglione, tortoni, and spumoni. Gelato was invented in Italy and has served to cool down millions of people throughout the years. These are just a few examples of delicious and lighter desserts that are better suited to the season. Keep cool and Buono Apetito!
What other Italian dishes keep you cool during the warm summer months? Share this post and let us know.
