Who would have thought that cold soups could jump-start your metabolism AND prevent your cravings?

Pro chefs spoon up two healthy dishes of chilled recipes that beat the heat- and leave you feeling fabulous!

Almond-Grape Soup - JUMP-STARTS METABOLISM:

"Although this soup is made with grapes, it's definitely not too sweet," says chef Mary Sue Milliken, co-owner of Ciudad restaurant in Los Angeles and coauthor of Mexican Cooking for Dummies (Wiley). "Toasted almonds give it a hearty flavor while the garlic provides some savory oomph."

How To Make: In bowl of food processor, pured 1 and a half cups roasted almonds and 2 cloves garlic, peeled, 45 sec., or until finely ground. In large bowl or pie plate, soak four 1 and half-thick slices statel country bread, crusts removed, in cold water 15 minutes. Remove bread from bowl and squeeze out excess water. Add bread to almond mixture in food processor; pulse until smooth. With processor running, graually add half cup olive oil in thin stream and 4 Tbs. sherry vinegar. Scrape down sides. With processor running, add 1 cup white grape juice, 6 cups halved seedless white grapes (1 cup at a time) and 1 cup ice water. Pulse mixture until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill soup 6 hours. Garnish with grape halves, almond slices and fresh mint sprig, if desired.

Slimming Bonus: Grapes are rich in cyanidin and kaempferol, phytochemicals that spur the body's output of leptin. According to research at Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University in Japan, increased production of this hormone accelerates metabolism for speedier fat burn.

Pro Tip: "try making this soup a day in advance - the different flavors are even better when they mingle overnight."

Is this why the Japanese are so skinny?!