Pool Side Fun

The weather is HOT HOT HOT HOT! Here in Colorado, we have been suffering through high 90s and low 100 degree DRY heat! It feels as though your lungs are unable to perform their function. I feel like a fish out of water. So...find a pool and grab the kids. Many of us love hanging out at the pool. I don't think there is anything more refreshing than a crystal clear body of water, iced tea, and the choice to swim or spritz.

Make the pool side experience fun for yourself and for the gang. Pack the usual essentials, i.e., sunscreen, aloe, towels, and snacks.

For the pool side snacks:
A pitcher of iced tea with tea ice cubes! (When I vacationed in Egypt, I was fortunate enough to lunch at the Four Seasons on the Nile. I had ordered iced tea and it was served to me with tea ice cubes. I thought I had died and gone to heaven! I now, keep an ice tray filled with tea for all of my iced teas.)

Lemon wedges
Sugar or substitute sweetener
Pretzels or chips you enjoy
Sandwiches light on the condiments but filled with vegetables and meat
Fruit...bring a fruit salad with melons and berries or ripe plums or nectarines
Ice...bring a cooler filled with ice
Cups, paper plates, and napkins

You are set.

Cuban Panini Sandwiches

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Yield: Makes 4 servings
Ingredients

1 (12-oz.) Cuban bread loaf, cut in half crosswise
Yellow mustard
1/3 pound thinly sliced Baked Pork Loin Roast (about 8 to 10 slices)
1/3 pound thinly sliced baked ham
1/3 pound thinly sliced provolone cheese
1/4 to 1/3 cup dill pickle chips
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Sliced red peppers
Leafy organic lettuce
Thinly sliced red onion

Preparation

1. Cut bread halves lengthwise, cutting to but not through opposite side. Spread mustard on cut sides of bread. Layer with Baked Pork Loin Roast and next 3 ingredients. Close sandwiches, and spread outsides with butter.

2. Place 1 sandwich in a hot, large skillet over medium heat. Place a heavy skillet on top of sandwich. Cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until cheese is melted and sandwich is flat. Repeat with remaining sandwich. Cut each sandwich in half, and serve immediately.

Cool off, enjoy the vitamin D, and relish in the laughter of your children! Happy Summer!