The Fresh Fight Against Summer Heat

Here’s the thing, summer in Namibia is not for the faint-hearted. You will faint, literally.
The sun doesn’t just shine – it smacks you in the face and leaves you with a brand to prove it passed through.

We’re constantly trying to figure out ways to keep cool and refreshed. Sure, water is the obvious option, but let’s be honest: water gets very, uhm, watery. The alternative is much more appealing – fruit. From juicy mangoes and crisp apples to tropical pineapples and the unbeatable watermelon, fresh fruit become the unsung heroes of the Namibian summer.

When the heat demands we up our refreshment game, fruit take centre stage. The combination of ripe fruit and a bit of creativity can transform an ordinary summer day into a celebration. But let’s not stop there. Add a bit of imagination, and you’ve got a line-up of fresh fruit drinks and snacks that would even convert the cautious.

I’ll admit, though, there’s a risk of falling into the trap of treating fruit as a boring afterthought. A fruit salad, lazily tossed together with no care for balance or flavour, doesn’t do justice to what can be achieved. If you’re going to do it, do it right. Care for the process, just like those Italians and their Spaghetto al Pomodoro.

Summer doesn’t have to be a battle against the heat. With fruit as your friend, every day can be a fruit fiesta, while doctors and nutritionists also advise you to have some fruit daily.

Remember, as always, the magic lies in the care you put into what you create. So, the next time the sun hits you hard, let your kitchen be a place of sweet, juicy rebellion.

What makes fruit drinks and snacks so appealing isn’t just their taste – it’s the care that goes into creating them. Fresh ingredients, combined thoughtfully, have a way of elevating the simplest combinations into unforgettable experiences. It’s like adding your signature to what mother nature made for you.

I hardly buy store-bought juice. I have a blender, I have a juicer, and I love to experiment. Some of my combinations are winners, others not so much. But what you can make in your kitchen beats store-bought factory-made any day. It’s fresher, healthier and there’s a special pride in knowing you made it yourself.

Mango AND Pineapple Cooler

A tropical drink to quench the fiercest thirst.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1 cup coconut water
• Juice of 1 lime
• Ice cubes

Method:

1. Blend the pineapple, mango, coconut water and lime juice until smooth.
2. Pour over ice cubes in a tall glass.
3. Garnish with a pineapple wedge or a sprig of mint.

Fun Tip: Add a touch of ginger for a spicy kick, and a shot of rum/vodka for an adult-only version.

Watermelon and
Mint Skewers

Perfect for a light, cooling snack by the pool.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups watermelon cubes
• A handful of fresh mint leaves
• Wooden skewers

Method:

1. Skewer watermelon cubes and fresh mint leaves alternately.
2. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

Fun Tip: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and a drizzle of lime juice for a flavour boost. Also, you could soak the watermelon in gin while in the refrigerator.

Apple and Berry Smoothie Bowl

A wholesome snack that feels indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 1 apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 banana, frozen
• 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup plain yoghurt (or a dairy-free alternative)
• A handful of granola and extra berries for topping

Method:

1. Blend the apple, banana, mixed berries and yoghurt until thick and creamy.
2. Pour into a bowl and top with granola and extra berries.

Fun Tip: Drizzle honey or a dollop of peanut butter for extra decadence. I personally despise peanut butter, but if it’s your thing, go for it!