Much as I love winter I look forward to warmer days and the chance to eat some lighter meals again. Summer brings with it visions of long lazy vacation days filled with goodies and cool drinks but before that many of us have to get through some trying examination times! So before we get into holiday mode let us focus on healthy food that will keep our kids alert and active during those days. Once we’ve got through the exams we can turn our attention to…

Mangoes! I can’t imagine the summer without my favourite fruit and I am sure neither can most of you. Our article on the king of fruit features recipes for a variety of mango-based delights that are sure to perk up mealtimes. Summer also means it’s time to make pickles – so bring out those jars and fill them up with a range of exciting achaars.

Cool off with luscious fruit sorbets, a wonderful dessert idea for days when the temperature rises to uncomfortable levels. There’s nothing like a refreshing sorbet on days when you are too hot to bother with a heavy meal or dessert. Kids will enjoy the feature on making orange juice with their friend Golgappu, who is back with his usual enthusiasm in this issue.

Talking of fruit reminds me of grapes, available in plenty as I write this. Not only are grapes irresistible to the palate, they are also a storehouse of nutrients, so make it a point to add them your fruit basket.

Before I bring your attention to the health related articles in this issue, I must mention my week in Singapore where I presented a range of authentic Indian menus at the Rang Mahal Pavilion in the first ever 'Asian Masters', a gastronomy and lifestyle event organised by Singapore Press Holdings, Singapore's largest publishing house. It was a great experience to witness the response of Singaporeans to traditional Gujarati and Rajasthani cuisine! Read more about it in this issue.

I leave you with a reminder to read our informative article on trans fatty acids; Dr. Nupur Krishnan’s feature on how to prevent kidney stones; and Dr. Usha Sariya’s article on fibroids.

Stay healthy. And remember to take time off to celebrate Holi with an unusual combination of dishes this year!