Instructions: Blackouts are best in bingo, not in a long, hot summer.

This summer, Californians face a rendezvous with inconvenience, economic fallout and ... well, cold food.

Power-crisis blackouts should result in culinary concoctions made without heat of any kind to save energy. No simmering, no sauteing, no sizzling. That part could be fun.

Why not plan blackout parties with the neighbors? Every household could bring a cold dish, an ice chest and a candle or two. Numerous ice chests will let you keep your refrigerator closed up tight to keep in the cold. Also, make sure those candles have sturdy bases; position them out of reach of children and pets.

Instead of blackout blues, we can embrace the spirit of innovation. Not everyone can plant a victory garden, but we can pack our pantries with luscious cold-dish provisions. The possibilities go way beyond eating sardines from a tin.

Olive oil-packed tuna mixed with diced green olives and lemon juice makes a delectable spread.

Mixing canned cannellini beans with minced mint or basil, extra-virgin olive oil, salt and pepper makes a quick bean salad.

Marinated artichokes or mushrooms, olives and roasted peppers served with rustic bread make instant antipasto.

Prepared sun-dried tomato pesto atop a cracker along with a slice of cheese or salami makes a luscious mini-sandwich.

Assorted nuts and dried apricots make a dandy dessert. OK, maybe a chocolate bar would make a tempting addition.

No-cook cooking presents some scrumptious choices. Here are some made-without-heat recipes that are sure to please. Years from now, folks will remember energy-crisis camaraderie - and how good the cold concoctions tasted.

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