Every blog and tweet I read seems to talk about the end of summer and the start of school.  However, right now the harvest season is just getting underway.  How about a GREAT recipe for COLORFUL SUMMER FRUIT CRISP…delicious, and so easy to prepare that it appears in my new book, SHOW ME HOW! BUILD YOUR CHILD’S SELF-ESTEEM THROUGH READING, CRAFTING AND COOKING!  Preschoolers love to help in the kitchen…the competence and confidence it builds contribute to a positive self-image for them.

COLORFUL SUMMER FRUIT CRISP

You will need: 5 cups mixed summer fruit, washed and then sliced if necessary (peaches, plums, apricots, strawberries, blueberries,etc.); 1/4 cup white sugar (you can substitute honey or agave), 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 tsp lemon juice, 3 Tb flour, 1/4 cup flour, 2 cups rolled oats, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 cup margarine (you can use one of the more healthy non-GMO spreads), a greased 9×13 inch pan, and 2 large bowls.

1. In a large bowl, gently toss fruit with white sugar, orange juice and lemon juice.
2. Sprinkle with 3 Tb flour, toss gently again and spread in the greased pan.
3. In another bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, cinnamon and the remaining flour.  Then add margarine and mix till crumbly.
4. Sprinkle crumbly mixture over fruit in pan.
5. Bake 20-25 minutes at 375 degrees until fruit is tender and topping is golden brown. 
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
7. Serves 12.
8. TIP: You can use your imagination when assembling the fruits…how many different colors will there be in this delicious and healthful dessert?

The summer may be winding down…but make the most of the healthful fruits and vegetables that are part of the season.  Check out your local farmer’s markets…a great family outing!