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Almost everyone is slowing down a little getting ready for a summer holiday. As Santa Marija approaches the temperatures have reached almost unbearable levels and spending time in the kitchen becomes somewhat tiring.

Dessert can be the most tiresome of the lot as everything seems to melt too quickly to look presentable. Keep cool this summer this summer with some homemade ice cream recipes along with some tips for getting the smoothest, creamiest texture.

Temperatures and energy levels seem to be inversely proportionate at this time of year. Cristina Dacoutros has some great ideas for healthy meals that will keep you going throughout the day without zapping your energy levels.

When temperatures are at their highest at lunchtime, even eating can seem like a chore. Pippa Mattei makes some great salads that can be prepared in the cool of the morning and kept in the fridge until lunch time. Not only are they delicious but they are also cool and refreshing.