Do you need ideas for The Christmas Holiday Season-Why not BBQ ribs on the grill? Christmas is the exception to staying indoors for the winter. We fry turkeys outdoors, try out new snow toys, play winter football, and go sledding and skiing. There is no reason we have to stop all that fun to go inside to eat. Why not have a BBQ and really enjoy the fun. Another good idea is to make that smoked salmon for your salmon dip right at home while watching the kids play in the hail rain and snow. Not to mention smoked ham for the holidays. Put kabobs on the grill and cheese in the smoker and enjoy the festivities with the rest of the family. There is no set and fast rule that says BBQ's are only for summertime, if you are outdoors then I say go for it. No matter what the season. Here is another great recipe to make with that smoked salmon. It is hot and fresh, perfect for holiday weather.

Almond-Tomato Soup with Smoked Salmon

4 large, fully-ripe tomatoes (about 2 lbs, cored and quartered) 2 Tbs sweet almond oil or olive oil 1 Tbs sherry wine vinegar or red wine vinegar 1/2 tsp sea salt 1/4 tsp ground white pepper 1/3 cup fresh cucumber; peeled, sliced lengthwise, cored and cut into matchstick-size slivers 1/3 cup fresh celery, very thinly sliced (1 small stalk) 1/4 cup jicama, peeled and cut into matchstick-size slivers 1/4 cup red onion, very finely chopped 1/4 cup smoked salmon, thinly sliced into strips 1 Tbs chopped fresh cilantro 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted Put tomatoes into blender or food processor and puree (about 15 sec.). Turn into a fine sieve and force through to remove seeds. Turn into mixing bowl and whisk in oil and vinegar, salt and pepper to taste. Stir in vegetables and salmon; mix well and chill for at least 2 hours. To serve: Spoon 1 cup each into 4 chilled bowls. Sprinkle each bowl with 2Tbs toasted almonds and some of the chopped cilantro. Drizzle with additional oil, if desired. Serves 4 So next time you get the winter blahs, don't get depressed, get out there and have a Thanksgiving or Christmas BBQ and by all means fire up that smoker. After all, smokers are made for winter recipes. If you need a new bbq or smoker, here is the perfect winter accessory. Char-Griller 2222 Pro Deluxe Charcoal Grill & Smoker