love & harvest

Tag: summer

  • Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche

    Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche

    This Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche is proof that plant-based food can be just as vibrant and satisfying as anything from the sea. Juicy mango, tangy lime, jalapeño heat, and tender soy protein come together in a refreshing dish that is perfect for warm summer days — and ready in under 40 minutes.

    Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche plated with red salsa

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Love & Harvest!

    What Is Ceviche?

    Ceviche is a vibrant and refreshing dish that hails from the coastal regions of Latin America. Traditionally it is made by marinating raw fish or shellfish in citrus juice — the acid “cooks” the seafood, denaturing the proteins and giving it a firm texture. The result is a zesty and flavourful dish enjoyed as an appetizer or a light meal.

    Here in Mexico, ceviche is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavours. It features an array of complementary components such as onions, tomatoes, herbs like cilantro, and a touch of heat from jalapeños. The beauty of ceviche lies in its versatility — vegetarian versions like this Mango Soy Ceviche use vegetables and fruits as the base, marinated in citrusy goodness to create a refreshing and tangy medley of flavours.

    Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche ingredients laid out

    My Vegetarian Journey in Mexico

    In my culinary journey through Mexico, I noticed the abundance of fresh vegetables and fruits in the markets, and also that vegetarian dishes did not always take the spotlight in traditional Mexican cuisine. As someone passionate about vegetarian food, I was inspired to create a dish that proves vegetarian cuisine is anything but mundane.

    With each bite of the Mango Soy Vegetarian Ceviche, I am transported to the bustling streets of Mexico, where the lively atmosphere and rich culinary heritage come alive. The succulent mangoes bring a burst of sweetness, the tangy lime juice adds a refreshing kick, and the dried soy protein creates a satisfying hearty texture that makes this dish a complete meal.

    Ingredients for Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche

    Dried Soy Protein

    • Why it matters: Dried soy protein (also called textured vegetable protein or TVP) is the meat substitute that gives this ceviche its hearty, chewy texture. Once boiled and cooled, it absorbs the lime, Maggie sauce, and spices beautifully, mimicking the texture of seafood without any fish. Look for it in health food stores or order it online.

    Ripe Mango

    • Why it matters: The mango delivers natural sweetness and tropical flavour that balances the acidity of the lime and the savoury depth of the sauces. Choose a mango that yields slightly to pressure — too firm and it won’t have enough flavour, too soft and it turns mushy in the dish.

    Fresh Lime Juice

    • Why it matters: Lime is the soul of any ceviche. The citric acid brightens every ingredient and ties the flavours together. Use freshly squeezed lime juice — two small limes — for the best results.

    Maggie Sauce

    • Why it matters: Maggie sauce adds a savoury, umami depth that makes this vegetarian ceviche taste complex and restaurant-worthy. It is a beloved Mexican condiment found in almost every kitchen in Mexico. A little goes a long way.

    Jalapeño

    • Why it matters: The jalapeño brings the heat that makes ceviche addictive. Finely chop it for even distribution. Remove the seeds for a milder version or keep them for full heat.

    Plated mango soy ceviche with red salsa base

    Why Try This Mango Soy Vegetarian Ceviche?

    1. Bursting with vibrant flavours: The combination of ripe mangoes, zesty lime juice, and the umami richness of Maggie sauce creates a harmonious balance that dances on your palate.
    2. Refreshing and light: The citrusy marinade paired with juicy mangoes provides a delightful burst of freshness, making it perfect for warm weather indulgence.
    3. Vegetarian delight: This ceviche showcases the beauty and versatility of vegetarian cuisine — you can enjoy the essence of a traditional ceviche while staying fully plant-based.
    4. Texture experience: The soy protein, juicy mango, and crisp jalapeño add layers of texture to every bite.
    5. Easy and quick: With straightforward instructions, you can have this on the table in under 40 minutes.
    6. Sustainable choice: Overfishing and unsustainable fishing practices have depleted marine resources worldwide. Choosing plant-based alternatives like this ceviche lets you enjoy a delicious meal with a lighter impact on the planet.

    Vegetarian ceviche close-up showing texture

    Vegetarian Ceviche Flavour Profile

    The flavour of Mango Soy Vegetarian Ceviche can be described as a tantalizing combination of sweet, tangy, savoury, and refreshing notes in perfect harmony. The ripe mangoes bring natural sweetness, the lime juice provides a bright citrusy kick that balances that sweetness, and the Maggie sauce and vegan fish sauce layer in a complex, savoury depth that makes this dish genuinely surprising for first-time tasters.

    Love fresh and vibrant Mexican-inspired dishes? Try these others from Love & Harvest:

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is dried soy protein and where do I find it?

    Dried soy protein (also called TVP — textured vegetable protein) is a high-protein meat substitute made from defatted soy flour. It comes in small granules or chunks, is shelf-stable, and doubles in size when rehydrated. Find it at health food stores, Latin markets, or order a bag of dried soy protein on Amazon.

    Can I make this ceviche ahead of time?

    Yes. The red salsa and the soy protein can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator. Combine everything and add the fresh mango just before serving to keep the texture and colour at their best.

    How do I make this dish spicier or milder?

    For more heat, keep the jalapeño seeds and add a second jalapeño. For a milder version, remove all seeds and membrane from the jalapeño before chopping, or substitute a milder pepper like poblano.

    Can I use fresh soy protein instead of dried?

    The recipe calls for dried soy protein specifically because its texture after rehydration mimics seafood. Fresh tofu can be substituted — press it dry, cube it, and use it directly without boiling. The flavour absorption will be different but still delicious.

    What can I serve this ceviche with?

    Serve with tostadas, corn tortilla chips, or slices of avocado. The red salsa base is also wonderful on its own as a dip. A squeeze of extra lime over the top just before serving brings out all the flavours.

    Is this ceviche gluten-free?

    The base ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check your brand of dried soy protein and Maggie sauce — some brands add wheat-based ingredients. Substitute coconut aminos for the Maggie sauce if you need a certified gluten-free alternative.

    Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche

    Vegetarian Mango Soy Ceviche

    A delightful twist on the traditional seafood-based ceviche. Our Mango Soy Ceviche is bursting with vibrant colours and flavours, which offer a refreshing and tangy taste, perfect for warm summer days. Print Recipe Pin RecipePrep Time:20 minutes Cook Time:15 minutes Course: AppetizerCuisine: MexicanKeyword: ceviche, soy, vegetarianServings: 6 people

    Equipment

    • high speed blender
    • colander

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups dried soy protein
    • 1 ripe mango cubed
    • 1 jalapeno finely chopped
    • 1 tbsp red onion finely chopped
    • 2 small lime juiced
    • 1 tsp Maggie sauce
    • 2 tsp vegan fish sauce
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tbsp olive oil garnish

    Red Salsa

    • 1-2 tsp olive oil
    • 4 small roman tomatoes
    • 3 branches of cilantro
    • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
    • pinch of salt

    Instructions

    Red Sauce

    • In a saucepan, turn the heat to medium-high. Slice the tomatoes into quarter-inch slices. Add the oil to the pan and sear the sides of all the tomatoes until slightly browned. Remove from heat.
    • In a high-speed blender, add the grilled tomatoes, cilantro, vinegar, and salt. Blend until smooth. Set aside.

    Mango Soy Ceviche

    • Add the dried soy proteins to a colander. Rinse under the faucet to remove any dust particles. Set aside.
    • Bring 1 litre of water to a boil, then add the rinsed soy protein. Cook on medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. Watch the pot carefully as it can foam up. Drain through a colander and let the cooked soy protein cool to room temperature.
    • In a large bowl, combine the cubed mango, jalapeño, red onion, lime juice, Maggie sauce, vegan fish sauce, and salt. Add the cooled soy proteins and mix well.
    • On the serving dish, spread the red salsa as the base. Place the mango soy ceviche on top in the centre. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top. Serve cold.
  • Cucumber Crush Popsicles

    Cucumber Crush Popsicles

    Cool, floral, and utterly refreshing — these Cucumber Crush Popsicles are summer in frozen form. Made with fresh cucumbers, lime, mint, sugar, and edible pansy flowers, every bite is as beautiful as it tastes. If you have ever sipped cucumber water on a hot day and thought “I wish this was a popsicle,” this recipe is for you.

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Love & Harvest!

    Cucumber mint popsicle with a pressed pansy flower on ice

    Step into a world of enchantment with our captivating Cucumber Mint Popsicles, inspired by the timeless tale of “The Secret Garden.” Just like the hidden wonders that come alive within the pages of this cherished book, our popsicles hold a magical surprise within their icy embrace.

    Delicate pansy flowers, with their vibrant hues and delicate petals, are nestled inside these frozen delights, adding a touch of natural beauty that will transport you to a whimsical garden. The refreshing combination of cool cucumber and lime, and invigorating mint awakens the senses, while the unexpected presence of pansy flowers adds an element of wonder and joy.

    With each lick, you’ll experience the refreshing taste and behold the visual allure of the hidden flowers, making these popsicles a true feast for the senses.

    Cucumber popsicles with edible pansies and cucumber slices on ice

    What I Love About Homemade Popsicles

    • Control the sugar content in each lick
    • Great way to use seasonal summer fruits
    • Easy recipe for kids to follow and tons of fun!
    • A great way of making homemade frozen treats
    • An infinite avenue for creativity

    About “Agua de Pepino”

    Have you had the pleasure of trying the delightful Mexican beverage known as “Agua de Pepino”? Translating to “cucumber water,” this refreshing drink is super popular in Mexico.

    While cucumber water may not be widely recognized and prepared in many places, its taste is truly delightful. By infusing a few mint leaves, the flavour becomes even more invigorating. In Mexico, you can easily find “Agua de Pepino” at various juice vendors, and sometimes they even add chia seeds for an extra twist. Drawing inspiration from the fresh cucumbers enjoyed on those sweltering days, we proudly present the Cucumber Crush Popsicle.

    Can You Eat Pansy Flowers?

    You see pansy flowers all over the garden during spring and summer. You may wonder if these flowers are edible — the short answer is yes! I’ve used them in popsicles and spring rolls. They are enchanting to look at and completely safe to eat. Flavour-wise, they are very mild with a faint grassy sweetness, so they add visual drama without overpowering the cucumber and mint.

    Clear cucumber popsicle with a purple and yellow pansy frozen inside

    Ingredients

    Five simple ingredients make these popsicles — and each one plays a clear role.

    Cucumber

    Use a fresh, firm English or Persian cucumber for the best results.

    • Why it matters: Cucumber is mostly water, which is exactly what you want in a popsicle base. It blends into a light, pale green liquid that freezes beautifully without becoming too icy or dense. Remove the seeds for a smoother texture.

    Lime Juice

    Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the entire flavour profile.

    • Why it matters: Without acid, cucumber-flavored anything can taste flat. The lime provides the tartness that wakes up your taste buds and makes each bite pop. Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but fresh is noticeably better.

    Mint

    Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped.

    • Why it matters: Mint adds a cooling menthol effect that amplifies the refreshing quality of cucumber. The key is to add mint after blending and stir it in by hand — blending mint bruises it and turns the popsicle a murky brown-green.

    Pansy Flowers

    Edible pansy flowers — fresh or from a specialty store — pressed into the mold walls before pouring.

    • Why it matters: These are entirely for beauty. Placing them against the mold walls means they freeze visible through the popsicle, creating a stunning garden-in-ice effect. Make sure to use food-grade, pesticide-free flowers only.

    How To Make Cucumber Crush Popsicles

    First, pick fresh cucumbers and wash and rinse them. According to Mexican folklore, rubbing the cut ends of the cucumber together for a few seconds helps reduce bitterness. Everyone here does it — give it a try!

    Chop the mint leaves into small pieces. Then cut the cucumber in half, deseed it, and chop it into small chunks. Blend the cucumber chunks with lime juice, sugar, and water. Stir in the mint leaves.

    Finally, rinse the pansy flowers to remove dirt. Fill popsicle molds with the cucumber mixture, leaving 1 inch of space at the top. Add 2-3 flowers to each mold and gently submerge them using a chopstick or skewer. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for 6 hours or overnight.

    What Do You Need to Make Homemade Popsicles?

    Firstly, you will need a silicone popsicle mold. The silicone version is best because you can stretch and pull to get the popsicles out without breaking them. It is also easier to store in cabinets.

    Another thing I like about silicone molds is that I can use wooden sticks — no more playing hide-and-seek with missing plastic sticks around the kitchen!

    If you have kids and want a smaller size, you can buy a 6-cavity silicone mold that makes about 3.3oz each — perfect for children.

    Cucumber crush popsicles laid on ice with mint and cucumber slices

    Create a Memorable Family Moment!

    This recipe is so simple and delicious that asking the kids to join in can create a fantastic summer memory for them. Engaging kids in the process of making popsicles can be a wonderfully enjoyable and educational experience. They can learn about flavours, textures, measuring, and the science of freezing — all while having a great time.

    Looking for more frozen popsicle ideas? Try our Matcha Green Tea Popsicles or the vibrant Blueberry Lemonade Popsicles. Both are just as easy and kid-approved.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I skip the pansy flowers?

    Yes, absolutely. The pansy flowers are purely decorative and do not affect the flavour. These popsicles taste just as delicious without them. If you want to add a floral element, edible violets or lavender buds also work beautifully.

    Why is my cucumber popsicle icy instead of smooth?

    An icy texture usually means there is too much water and not enough dissolved sugar or fat in the mixture. Make sure to measure the sugar accurately and blend thoroughly. Adding a small amount of xanthan gum (1/4 tsp) can also help prevent large ice crystals from forming.

    How do I get the flowers to stay pressed against the side of the mold?

    Fill the mold about halfway with the cucumber mixture first. Press the flowers gently against the inside walls, then slowly fill the rest of the mold. The liquid holds them in place as it freezes. A chopstick or skewer helps position them precisely.

    Can I use a blender instead of a juicer?

    Yes, a blender works perfectly for this recipe. Blend on high for about 15 seconds until completely smooth. If you prefer a pulp-free popsicle, strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve before pouring into the molds.

    How long do cucumber popsicles last?

    Stored in an airtight container or individually wrapped in plastic wrap, these popsicles keep well in the freezer for up to 6 weeks. After that, the flowers may start to discolour and the flavour will begin to fade.

    Can I substitute something for sugar?

    Yes. Agave nectar dissolves easily and works very well in cold preparations like this. Honey also works but adds a slight honey flavour that competes with the cucumber. Use the same quantity as the sugar called for in the recipe.

    Cucumber crush popsicles laid on ice with mint and cucumber slices

    Cucumber Crush Popsicles

    Experience the cool, refreshing Cucumber Crush Popsicles made with fresh cucumbers, lime, mint, sugar, and pansy flowers, it is absolutely gorgeous and refreshing. 
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    6 hours
    Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
    Servings: 10 popsicles
    Course: Dessert
    Calories: 55
    Ingredients Equipment Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cucumber
    • ¼ cup lime juice
    • ⅓ cup sugar
    • 15-20 pedals pansy flower
    • 2 cups water

    Equipment

    • high speed blender

    Method
     

    1. Cut the ends of the cucumber. Split it in half and take the seeds out.
    2. Finely chopped the mint and set aside.
    3. Add the cucumber, lime juice, sugar and water. Blend on high for 15 seconds. Stir the mint leaves into the mixture.
    4. Pour the mixture into your popsicle moulds and freeze until solid for 6 hours or overnight.
  • 15 Family Summer Fun Ideas

    15 Family Summer Fun Ideas

    Summer feels endless when you’re in it — but you only get 18 of them with your kids before they leave the nest. These 15 family summer fun ideas are tried, tested, and family-approved, so you can stop scrolling and start making memories that your kids will still talk about years from now.

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Love & Harvest!

    family summer fun ideas

    You think you only have 18 years with your kids before they grow up. But in reality, you only have 18 summers with them.

    Bam! Did it hit you yet? Summer is a time for families to connect. With only 18 summers, creating memories that will last a lifetime can feel intimidating. Don’t worry though — we’ve got you covered with some amazing family activities for the summer!

    summer activities list

    These 15 family summer fun ideas are tried, tested, and true! We got all our kids involved in previous summers and some of the memories we created are things they still talk about to this day. Each year that passes they become more of their little human self — constantly as parents we are playing catch up to their yearly transformation. So put the phones away, keep it inexpensive, and let’s explore all 15 ideas!

    1. Simple Meal Preparation

    A fun summer activity at home! Getting the kids more involved with their food is great fun for them. They learn how to read instructions and use their math skills to convert measurements. It’s a proud experience when they cook to feed the family. While I get my kids involved in the kitchen, I love talking to them about the food we cook — where it comes from, how it grows, and what it tastes like. Today, they love to learn about all sorts of food.

    An easy recipe to start with is our Blender Oatmeal Pancakes. Just throw everything in the blender — minimal cleanup and maximum deliciousness!

    2. Reading Projects

    Learning how to read plays a major impact on education. Summer is a great time to review everything learned in school and give kids the leg up on their reading skills. Great places to find books:

    • Visit your local library — a vast collection of books your kids can choose from. Let them choose what they want to read to encourage interest in books.
    • Reading apps — we love using the reading app called Epic! It has a large library with 40,000+ books, read-along options, and is perfect for kids just starting to learn.

    activities for hot summer days

    3. Outdoor Walks

    Walking in the morning encourages a great habit for kids. For us, we enjoy our first walk before breakfast. The kids always bring a bag for treasure hunting — leaves, flowers, branches — to make art pieces later in the day.

    • Cover conversational topics about the earth, environment, recycling, weather, seasons, and biodiversity.
    • Walk with your pets — dog walking subconsciously teaches empathy and responsibility.
    • Bring a bag — let their creative mind go free with what they find.

    summer vacation ideas

    4. Camping

    Great fun for both kids and parents. Camping is a great opportunity for skill-building, following instructions, and interacting with nature. This is by far our favourite thing to do in the summer! My best memories as a child are always camping and outdoor-related. Beyond the fun and fresh air, camping teaches kids valuable life lessons about taking risks, respecting nature, and being active.

    family trip in summer

    5. Visit a Local Museum

    Museums are always open in summer with special exhibits and shows catered to children. Visit your local museum website to see what special events are happening. In Puebla, our two favourites are the natural history museum and the space museum.

    6. Hike

    Another great family summer idea! Hiking gets the kids moving, and it’s one of our favourite ways to spend a summer day together. In Vancouver there are tons of trails to hike with family. My favourite family-friendly trails:

    unique family vacations

    7. Picnic

    Always a great family bonding moment — no computers, no housework, just focus on the kids. Pack up a spray bottle for hot days and head outdoors! Some easy picnic meal ideas from our kitchen:

    8. Road Trip

    After COVID, traveling by plane has gotten expensive and chaotic. Why not do a road trip? It’s affordable for the whole family and you can stop anytime you see something cool. Let the kids help plan the destination — they’ll learn how to execute a plan and how to be flexible when things don’t go exactly as expected. No road trip ever goes exactly to plan, and that’s the beauty of it.

    9. Entrepreneur Project

    Teaching the kids how to make money is a great way to get them thinking about money management. Once they make money, don’t stop there — teach them how to reinvest in their business. At the lemonade stand, they can reinvest in a professional lemon juicer to improve customer service!

    • Lemonade stand
    • Making and selling cookies
    • Washing cars for neighbours
    • Walking dogs for friends and family
    • Collecting recyclables

    10. Art Projects

    Art stimulates creativity and problem-solving. It helps with self-esteem, self-expression, and fine motor skill development. A great activity for hot summer days staying indoors with the AC. Family craft ideas:

    • Build a family picture frame together
    • Paint a large canvas using only fingerprints
    • Assemble easy DIY planters and paint them together

    best family vacations on a budget

    11. Planting and Gardening

    Every kid secretly loves gardening. Learning to plant seeds teaches responsibility (caring for plants) and understanding the cause and effect of watering. We love growing plants from seeds — once the vegetables are ready, I let my kids harvest and cook them. We’ve grown green peas, lettuce, and okra, and they ate everything! Buy seeds online at Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds — free shipping to the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

    summer ideas giveback

    12. Giving Back

    Teaching kids kindness early on is essential. Here are some examples of what giving back can look like:

    • Participate in a senior home
    • Randomly gifting something at a grocery store
    • Helping grandparents without being asked
    • Baking a cake for a family member
    • Releasing insects or animals back into the wild
    • Planting a tree
    • Donating to a cause they care about

    13. Board Game Night

    We are a board game family. Board game night is always paired with tons of snacks and drinks. We learn to laugh at ourselves and each other — teaching ourselves not to take things too seriously. Board games we love:

    14. Movie with the Family

    Cuddling is probably one of my favourite things to do with the kids. It’s such a cozy feeling getting to watch a movie while holding them and enjoying some popcorn. We treat screen time as a prize for the kids — they’ve earned it by behaving well during the day. Some streaming services we love: Netflix, HBO Max, Prime Video, Disney Plus.

    summer ideas with friends

    15. Enjoy the Simple Moments

    All the summer ideas we recommend are meant to be enjoyed, so remember to actually enjoy them. It’s really the small and insignificant moments in our lives that make the difference — watching those small lips curve into a smile, or the quirky way your little one dances. Embrace it and enjoy it. After all, we only have 18 summers with them, or maybe even less.

    For more summer food inspiration, check out our Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork for the perfect outdoor barbecue crowd-pleaser, and our Blender Oatmeal Pancakes for a fun morning cooking project with the kids.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the best free summer activities for families?

    Outdoor walks, library visits, hiking local trails, and gardening are all free or very low-cost summer activities that kids love. Many local museums also offer free days during the summer. The library is especially great because kids can choose their own books, which builds excitement around reading.

    How do I keep my kids entertained all summer without screens?

    Structure helps. Start mornings with an outdoor walk, follow up with a reading block, then move to a hands-on project like art or gardening. Save screens (movie night, reading apps) as intentional rewards rather than defaults. With variety and a loose routine, kids stay engaged without reaching for devices.

    What summer activities help kids learn real-life skills?

    Simple meal preparation teaches math, reading, and following instructions. Entrepreneur projects (lemonade stands, car washing) teach money management and customer service. Gardening teaches responsibility and cause-and-effect. Camping teaches risk-taking, problem-solving, and respecting nature.

    How do you make summer fun on a budget?

    Most of these 15 ideas cost very little. Walks, art projects, board games, and reading are essentially free. Gardening seeds are a few dollars. Picnics are cheaper than restaurants. Focus on time and creativity, not spending — the memories your kids will cherish most are the ones where you were fully present, not the expensive ones.

    How do I get my kids excited about summer activities?

    Let them choose. Give them two or three options and let them pick. Kids are much more enthusiastic about activities they feel ownership over. Also, do it alongside them — kids feed off your energy. If you’re genuinely excited about the walk or the picnic, they will be too.

    What are some meaningful summer activities that go beyond just having fun?

    Giving back is the most meaningful activity on this list. Whether it’s donating to a local SPCA, helping grandparents, or planting a tree, these experiences shape who your kids become. Combine it with an entrepreneur project and they learn both generosity and financial wisdom at the same time.