Summertime is crunch time.

It’s hot as hell and you’re hungry but don’t have the energy nor the desire to pound down a heavy meal. A salad is just the thing, no? But, they can be so flat-out boring. Especially if you don’t have much in the fridge other than a wilted head of lettuce.

Here’s a salad that’s to die for. Guaranteed. I first saw the recipe in the New York Times, years ago and I’ve made it ever since. It hits every note: Sweet, crunchy, tangy, and refreshing. And, the colors!

All you need are bagged grated carrots, fresh blueberries, sunflower seeds, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice.

Dump the carrots and blueberries in a bowl, drizzle on olive oil and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste and finish with a liberal sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds. I nuke them in the microwave.

Enjoy!