The heat in our area has been rough, with everyone stating how hot it is. We have yet to acquire an a/c hoping that we will be able to make it through the summer without one. School has started again and often that means that summer will be ending soon. All I know is that the heat did not get the memo. That leaves the desire for cool meals and easy lunchbox meals.

The heat in our area has been rough, with everyone stating how hot it is. We have yet to acquire an a/c hoping that we will be able to make it through the summer without one. School has started again and often that means that summer will be ending soon. All I know is that the heat did not get the memo. That leaves the desire for cool meals and easy lunchbox meals. 

Individual Seven-Layer Dips

Makes about 8 individual dips

1 (16 ounce) can refried beans

1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning

1 cup guacamole

1 (8 ounce) container sour cream

1 cup chunky salsa or pico de gallo

1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

2 Roma tomatoes, diced

1/2 bunch of green onions, sliced

1 (2.25 ounce) can of sliced olives, drained

9 ounce plastic tumblers

tortilla chips

In a small bowl mix taco seasoning with refried beans. Some people prefer to mix their taco seasoning with the sour cream layer but I wanted a bright white layer so I did it with the beans.

Here's how the layers are assembled:

Layer 1: beans and taco seasoning

Layer 2: sour cream

Layer 3: guacamole

Layer 4: salsa or pico de gallo

Layer 5: cheese

Layer 6: tomatoes

Layer 7: green onions and olives

In each plastic glass, layer about 2 Tablespoons of the beans, followed by 2 Tablespoons of sour cream, 2 Tablespoons of guacamole, 2 Tablespoons of salsa or pico de gallo, and 2 Tablespoons of cheese. Make sure you drain your salsa or pico to get the excess liquid out before you pour it on. Then top with about 1-2 teaspoons of tomatoes, olives, and green onion (If making ahead of time, wait to add these toppings until shortly before serving).

Garnish with one tortilla chip. Store in the refrigerator until serving and serve with chips. Makes around 8 individual dips.