We all welcome the summer sun, but the rising temperatures do come with one tiny problem: the last thing you want to do is turn on your stove or oven. Instead, turn to these ideas for quick, easy, no-cook meals that you merely throw together.
Start by keeping your pantry and refrigerator stocked with the right items. This will keep you food-preparation-relaxed and keep each no-cook meal from becoming boring. Let go of the idea that every meal has to be “prepped” or planned. Sometimes, it’s just easier to make sure you buy the right foods, have a few things ready to go at the start of the week, and be excited and willing to mix things up and try new things.
- Shop for (or order) your groceries early on the weekend to give yourself time to organize, prep, and plan – but keep it easy!
- Purchase a rotisserie chicken (or two), or pick up some pre-cooked salmon or tri-tip.
- Stock up on other pre-cooked protein options like tuna, chickpeas, and beans.
- Take advantage of the summer abundance of fruits and vegetables – remembering the fact that most summer veggies taste great raw.
- If you do cook anything, make it a big batch of grains or pulses like rice, farro, quinoa, or lentils.
- Make sure you have enough vinaigrettes, spreads, and dips, whether bought or homemade. Hummus, guacamole, and tzatziki are great to add to rice bowls, salads, sandwiches, and for veggie dipping.
- Buy the best bread you can get – ensuring you’re getting maximum nutrition in your meal. Try something new like sourdough with olives or Asiago ciabatta.
- Use plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as your breakfast base. Top with nuts, cooked grains, fresh or dried fruits.
Here are some recipes that make great no-cook meals and should help keep you cool as a cucumber this summer.
No Cook Summer Recipes
Summertime Tip
Using your oven or stove less often during summer can also help you save on energy usage, which can help reduce your utility bill. Check out our infographic, Saving Energy in the Kitchen, for more great tips on creating an energy-efficient home during the warm summer months.
