Summer Cooking and Acid Reflux

The Misunderstood Tomato

Tomatoes, often considered the quintessential summer fruit, have a reputation for being acidic and are frequently avoided by those with acid reflux. However, this is a misconception. When tomatoes are cooked down into a thick sauce, they do become more acidic. In their raw state, though, tomatoes are sweet and alkaline, making them a suitable option for many.

Caprese Salad: A Simple, Refreshing Starter

One of the simplest and most delightful ways to enjoy tomatoes is in a Caprese Salad. This Italian classic, named after the island of Capri, combines slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It's a perfect starter for a summer meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe tomatoes (about 2 pounds), sliced thin (¼ inch)
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 pound of fresh mozzarella, sliced similarly to the tomatoes
• 1 cup chiffonade of fresh basil (stack basil leaves, roll up, and cut into thin slices)
• Extra virgin olive oil (first cold pressed)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh chives

Directions:

1. Arrange the tomato slices on a serving platter. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle half the basil on the tomatoes.
3. Cover with slices of mozzarella, drizzle more olive oil, and sprinkle the remaining basil over the mozzarella.
4. Garnish with chopped chives. Let the salad sit at room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Outdoor Cooking: A Summer Tradition

Cooking outdoors is a beloved American summer tradition. It not only gets you out of the kitchen but also makes cleanup easier. One of the best main dishes for summer is chicken, especially when prepared using a technique I call "grill-a-quing," which combines grilling, barbecuing, and smoking.

Grill-a-Qued Butterflied Chicken

Butterflying a chicken involves cutting close to the backbone from tail to neck, flipping it over, and pressing it down. This method makes for a more attractive presentation and ensures even cooking.

Ingredients:

• Grill spray
• Wood chips (oak, apple, mesquite, or hickory)
• 3 ½ - 4 pound natural chicken (butterflied)
• Sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper

Directions:

1. Spray a clean grill thoroughly with oil and fill a metal wood box with pieces of wood (no need to soak them).
2. Ignite the grill at the highest setting. Meanwhile, remove excess fat from the chicken and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. When the wood starts to smoke and the grill is very hot, place the chicken breast side up on the cooking grates.
4. Adjust the heat to the lowest setting when the fat flares up. Continue to cook, checking periodically, until the skin is crisp and the joints move easily (about 1.5 to 2 hours).
5. Once done, let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Complementary Dishes

Garden Salad

A fresh garden salad is a perfect side dish. Utilize as many homegrown ingredients as possible. Herbs and vegetables grown in large terracotta pots on the deck are convenient and fresh.

Pasta Primavera

For those who want carbs, a simple pasta primavera made with penne or orzo and tossed with oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs like oregano is ideal. This dish can be served at room temperature.

Sweet Endings: Seasonal Desserts

Puff Pastry Apple Tart with Apricot Rum Glaze

This dessert is easy to make and looks impressive. It's perfect for showcasing late summer apples.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
• 3-4 tart apples (Braeburn, Fuji, or Gala), peeled, halved, cored, and sliced thin
• Juice of one lemon
• 3 tablespoons fine white sugar
• Cinnamon
• ¼ cup apricot jam
• ¼ cup dark rum

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss apple slices with lemon juice. Thaw puff pastry as per instructions.
3. Heat jam and rum in a microwave-safe bowl until boiling to form a glaze.
4. Line a 12” x 18” baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the pastry to make it thinner.
5. Fold the edges to form a ½ inch border. Arrange apple slices in overlapping rows within the border.
6. Dust with sugar and cinnamon. Bake for about 25 minutes until the pastry is golden and apples are tender.
7. Brush the glaze over the apples. Serve with crème fraîche, whipped cream, or ice cream.

Conclusion

Summer cooking offers a wealth of opportunities to enjoy fresh, easily digestible foods that are kind to those with acid reflux. From the refreshing Caprese salad to the flavorful grill-a-qued chicken and the delightful apple tart, these recipes make the most of the season's bounty.

Interesting Stats

• According to the American College of Gastroenterology, over 60 million Americans experience acid reflux at least once a month. Source.
• A study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology found that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux by up to 40%. Source.

Bon Appétit!

For more recipes, articles, and information about managing acid reflux, visit Reflux Gone Forever.