Pep up your next fiesta with this Mexican dip made with a bunch of healthy trimmings — beans, cheese, corn, avocados and a touch of spice.

Enjoy a refreshingly cool (and super healthy) soup this summer. Traditional gazpacho is a pureed mixture of fresh tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, onions, celery and cucumbers but don’t be afraid to get creative. Shake things up—blend a batch of watermelon, red pepper or white grape gazpacho instead.

Chutney is a simmered-down or pureed combo of fruit (or veggies), spices and herbs. Instead of deep frying or drowning your fish, pork or meat in heavy sauces, opt for a tangy bite of chutney instead.

Dig in to these delicious frozen treats that are reminiscent of Italian ices. Granita’s are harder in texture than sorbets and contain less sugar. To make a granita, cook up a simple sugar (combo of sugar and water) and add flavors such as coffee, mint, juice and wine along with fruit. Once the mixture has begun to freeze (it takes about 3 hours), scrape the ice crystals every so often as they start to form. Once frozen, scoop and serve.

Want something more exciting than bottled beer for your game-day bash? If your friends are Bloody Mary fans, this Mexican cocktail might be a winner. Lime and hot sauce liven up the flavor without adding calories.

We love our artichokes here at Healthy Eats, but we know they can be a pain to prep. Use your extra time this weekend to try this steamed artichoke dish. Serve them as a side, appetizer or just a fresher snack in place of chips and dip.

Kale chips are easy to make, high in vitamins A and C, fiber, calcium and antioxidants.

I got spoiled this summer, getting to come home and have access to fresh ingredients, a full kitchen and, of course, free time to cook. However, going back to school doesn’t mean we college students can’t still enjoy a good, healthy meal! Pasta is a good ol’ standby, but this year, ditch the buttered noodles or Ramen packets and try this easy dish – it’s sure to earn you an A from your roommates or friends. Make it in bulk you and eat for a few days. Capers, anchovy paste and arugula might not be usual pantry staples, but you shouldn’t have trouble finding them at the local supermarket.

I’m a whole-hearted sweets lover (Dana can attest to that!). You’ll find my face pressed against the bakery window drooling at all the chocolate goodies. These low-cal scrumptious desserts are sure to satisfy that sweet tooth --- add them to your recipe collection.

This so-simple idea might leave you saying "duh!" but pop these cinnamon-dusted apples in your mouth and that will become a definite "mmm..."