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| SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | JULY 2024 | 47 Happy Cookers July is the month of sunshine, sizzling grills, and simmering pots — a time when the kitchen becomes a stage for culinary creativity and the f lavors of summer dance on our taste buds. ~ Raelene Kretchman The Happy Cookers is excited to gather once again at the South Clubhouse, as we do on the fourth Friday of every month. Mark your calendars for July 26 at 11 am, as we delve into this month's delicious topic: "Oodles of Noodles." Our guest speaker this month is John Russo, from the esteemed Johnny Russo's Italian Restaurant in Banning. With his longstanding friendship with the Happy Cookers and his wealth of knowledge and passion for pasta, John promises to make our exploration of noodles truly unforgettable. So, as we revel in the abundance of f lavors this month has to offer, let's kick off our culinary journey in July with John's enticing presentation. While the 4th of July festivities may dominate early July, there's more to celebrate in the kitchen throughout the month. Try this fun and delicious Grilled Watermelon Salad, a perfect embodiment of summertime spirit. Ingredients: 1 small seedless watermelon, sliced into 1-inch-thick rounds, 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled, ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush both sides of the watermelon rounds with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Place the watermelon rounds on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the watermelon is slightly softened. Remove grilled watermelon from the grill, cool slightly. Cut the watermelon into bite sized pieces and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced mint leaves over the grilled watermelon. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad, season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired, serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing and unexpected twist on a classic summer salad. Bon appetit! As July unfolds, let your culinary creativity shine with fresh, seasonal ingredients and vibrant f lavors. From festive Fourth of July dishes to refreshing summer salads like the Grilled Watermelon Salad, there's no shortage of delicious opportunities to celebrate. Embrace the bounty of summer, try new recipes, and savor every moment in the kitchen So, if you love to cook, or just love to eat, this is the club for you! For general info, contact President-Pat Coie at (909) 262-5005. For information on membership contact Barbara Elness at (407) 432- 8363 or barbed1951@aol.com.