Chickpeas (Photo: Mink/Flickr)

Now that the heat of summer is again upon us, it’s tempting to simply give up and get out of the kitchen. But don’t give in too easily. A little something you can make ahead, when the sun isn’t blazing, will help you keep your cool, while eating well.

The Small Boston Kitchen has a recipe for a Roasted and Chilled Chickpea and Herb Salad that fits the bill oh-so nicely. Yes, there’s a little bit of oven time involved, but it’s minimal. And roasted chickpeas are one of life’s simple, and oft-overlooked, pleasures. Honestly, I could eat them on their own, but served cold with fresh herbs, a little feta, olive citrus, and citrus, they are an extra-special — yet  healthy and virtuous — hot weather treat.