JULY 2025 38 W hen it warms up in Phoenix, the last thing most of us want to do is use the oven. That’s why this month, I’m sharing three colorful, plant- based salads perfect for Fourth of July, a casual potluck, or a refreshing lunch at home. These recipes are full of bright summer flavor, satisfying textures, and nourishing ingredients – and there’s no oven required, though we do boil a few potatoes! The dill potato salad is herb-packed and tangy, with capers and shallots giving it a flavorful twist. The dense bean salad is hearty enough to be a main dish, loaded with beans, veggies, olives, and artichokes in a zesty lemon and mustard vinaigrette and the blueberry peach kale salad is a seasonal favorite, combining juicy summer fruit with tender kale and toasted pumpkin seeds in a lemon- maple dressing. These dishes are easy to prep ahead and taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld, making them ideal for entertaining or stress-free weeknight meals. Whether you’re vegan or not, these salads deliver big on flavor, freshness, and summer celebration. Join my monthly membership for printable recipes, health videos and live Zoom cooking classes. Only $10 a month! Turn down the heat, turn up the yum! Blueberry peach kale salad Blueberry peach kale salad SERVES 4 SERVES 4 1. Strip kale from the stems. Discard stems and cut the leaves into slivers. Put in a bowl and squeeze in ! lemon and shake with a little pink salt. Massage for a few minutes to break down the kale. 2. Add the peaches and blueberries to the bowl. 3. Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet. 4. In a small bowl combine the juice of two lemons, maple syrup and salt. 5. Toss salad ingredients with dressing and pumpkin seeds. Enjoy! • 1 bunch Lacinato dino kale • 3 ripe peaches, chopped • 1 cup blueberries • ½ cup toasted pumpkin seeds • 2 ½ lemons, juiced • 1 tbsp. maple syrup • 1 tsp. salt Directions Ingredients Dill potato salad Dill potato salad SERVES 6 SERVES 6 1. Add the potatoes to a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not mushy. 2. Whisk dressing together. 3. Toss potatoes with shallots, dill, parsley, scallions, capers, and dressing. Chill and serve. Dense bean salad Dense bean salad SERVES 6 SERVES 6 Dressing Ingredients • ¼ cup olive oil • ¼ cup red wine vinegar • Juice of 1 lemon • 3 cloves crushed garlic • 2 tbsp. grainy mustard • 1 tsp. salt • 1 tsp. Italian seasoning • 1 diced shallot • 1 diced red and orange pepper • 1 diced cucumber • 1 diced roasted red pepper • 1 diced bunch parsley • 2 cups shelled edamame • 1 can each: kidney beans, black beans, rinsed and drained • 1 can diced artichoke hearts • ½ cup halved Kalamata olives Directions Owner of YouCare- SelfCare, a private wellness practice specializing in plant- based lifestyle and disease prevention. youcare-selfcare.com BY MIRIAM HAHN 1. Put ingredients in a big bowl. Whisk up dressing and toss it all together! Ingredients • 3 lbs. russet or Yukon potatoes, peeled and chopped • ¼ cup shallots, minced • ½ cup fresh dill, chopped • ½ cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped • 3 scallions, chopped • 1 tbsp. capers Directions • 3 tbsp. olive oil • 2 tbsp. white wine or champagne vinegar • 1 tbsp. brown mustard • 1 tsp. pink salt • ½ tsp. pepper Dressing

39 JULY 2025 By Cliff Summerhill A new playdate group founded by a local mom is offering parents with young children a welcoming space to meet, share experiences, and build relationships. Designed to bring families together in a relaxed and friendly setting, the group provides opportunities for kids and parents to enjoy time with others who understand the joys and challenges of raising little ones. Giggles and Grace Play Dates, launched by Arcadian Emily Serbin, offers opportunities for families to meet at the playground, baby gyms, or sensory- friendly events. The idea was born out of Serbin’s personal experience of adjusting to life as a stay-at-home parent after the birth of her daughter. “As she got older or our schedules changed, I found it easy to lose touch with the people we met along the way,” Serbin said. “I created Giggles and Grace to help foster more connected relationships for myself as a mom with young kids that share a similar stage of life.” The group has already hosted a range of events around the Valley, including visits to splash pads, indoor play centers, the zoo, and the popular Scottsdale Foam Frenzy, a highlight so far for many of the toddlers and their parents. “The Scottsdale Foam Frenzy was a lot more fun than I expected,” Serbin said. “I thought it might be difficult for our toddlers to safely enjoy due to the size of the crowd, yet we were able to find space, and the kids had a blast in a unique sensory experience.” The group has mainly grown through word of mouth and close friends. “I have a great network of families, although we are all in different phases of life and parenting,” Serbin said. “I intended to transition from the planting the seed/ idea phase of this group to the growing phase this fall.” Long-term plans include a calendar of regular outings, parent connection nights, and story times, all designed to foster a more profound sense of belonging among parents navigating the early years of childhood. “I know it takes time to build trusted friendships – especially as an adult and as a mom,” Serbin said. “But ultimately, our goal is to build a strong sense of community – one where encouragement, grace, and meaningful connection are at the center of everything we do.” Serbin is filled with excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. As momentum builds toward the relaunch when temps are not quite as high, she looks forward to welcoming a diverse group of families to be part of this evolving journey. “Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for meaningful connection during the early years of parenting, Giggles and Grace is a place where friendships blossom and grace abounds,” Serbin said. “We’d love to welcome you into the rhythm of play, purpose, and community.” For more, reach out to gigglesandgraceplaydates@gmail.com Mom-led group builds community through connection Arizona’s summer heat can be perilous for pets, especially dogs, due to soaring temperatures and intense sun exposure. As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to implement safety measures to protect furry companions during these extreme conditions. PROTECTING PAWS FROM SCORCHING PAVEMENT During summer, Arizona’s pavement can reach temperatures exceeding 180°F, posing a significant risk of burns to paws. To safeguard their feet, consider the following: • Timing walks : Schedule walks during early mornings or late evenings when the ground is cooler. Avoid walking during peak heat hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. • Protective footwear : Invest in dog booties designed to shield paws from hot surfaces. These can prevent burns and provide traction on slippery surfaces. • Alternative surfaces : Opt for grassy or dirt paths instead of asphalt to reduce heat exposure. ENSURING PROPER HYDRATION Dehydration is a serious concern in the desert heat. To keep pets hydrated: • Fresh water access : Always provide clean, cool water, especially when your pet is outdoors. Consider using stainless steel or ceramic bowls, as they retain cooler temperatures longer than plastic. • Portable water containers : Carry collapsible bowls or portable water bottles during walks to ensure hydration on the go. • Wet food : Incorporate wet food to increase water intake. PROVIDING COOL SHELTER Creating a cool environment is vital for your pet’s comfort: • Shade : Ensure your pet has access to shaded areas, whether natural or man-made, to escape direct sunlight. • Cooling products : Utilize cooling mats, vests, or bandanas designed to lower body temperature. These products can provide relief during hot days. • Avoid hot cars : Never leave your pet in a vehicle, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly, leading to heatstroke. RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Be vigilant for symptoms such as: • Excessive panting or drooling • Vomiting or diarrhea • Lethargy or collapse • Bright red or pale gums If you observe any of these signs, move your pet to a cooler area, offer water, and seek veterinary care immediately. PRACTICES TO AVOID • Tethering : Never tether your pet outdoors. This restricts their movement and access to water and shade. • Overexertion : Avoid vigorous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, engage in light play during cooler hours. • Unsupervised outdoor time : Limit your pet’s unsupervised time outdoors to prevent exposure to heat and potential hazards. By implementing these safety measures, you can ensure your pet remains comfortable and protected during Arizona’s intense summer heat. Remember, your vigilance plays a crucial role in their well-being. Keeping pets safe during Arizona’s scorching summers Giggles and Grace attendees Laura and her children Shane, Eleanor, and Sophia with Emily and Ryleigh. PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMILY SERBIN