Here are some ideas:
1. Cold soups
Cold soups such as gazpacho (a tomato-based soup), cucumber soup, or vichyssoise (a creamy potato and leek soup) are perfect for sweltering summer days. Not only are they soothing to eat, but they also require minimal cooking. Just blend the ingredients and chill for a few hours before serving. You can also add roasted shrimp, croutons, or chopped herbs to make them more substantial.
2. Salads
Salads are excellent summertime foods because they are usually light and refreshing. Instead of using lettuce as a base, try using cucumber, summer squash, or even watermelon for a more visually appealing and refreshing base. For more substantial salads, top with boiled eggs, grilled chicken or tofu, and roasted vegetables.
3. Spring rolls
These are a fun and quick way to make a meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. You can use phyllo pastry, rice paper, or lettuce leaves as a wrap. Fill them with raw or lightly cooked vegetables, such as carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, and avocado. You can also add shrimp, tofu, or chicken as a protein source.
4. Smoothie bowls
Smoothie bowls are not only pretty to look at, but they are also refreshing, filling, and customizable. You can use any frozen fruit you have on hand, such as banana, mango, berries, and pineapple. Blend them with non-dairy milk or yogurt, and top with your favorite granola, nuts, seeds, and fresh fruit.
5. Grilled vegetables and fruit
Grilling is a great way to cook food without heating up your kitchen. You can grill vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, corn, and peppers, or even fruit like pineapple and peaches. Serve them as a side dish or as a burger topping.
6. Ice cream
Who says you can’t have a dessert in the summertime? Homemade ice creams are not only delicious, but they are also a wonderful treat on hot days. You can make them with any fruit you have on hand, such as strawberries, blueberries, peaches, or bananas. Mix them with coconut milk, almond milk, or cream, and process them in an ice cream maker or just freeze them in a container.
7. Iced tea
Drinking tea is a great way to cool down, and iced tea is even better! You can make your own flavored iced tea by brewing tea bags and adding fresh fruit, such as lemon, lime, peach, and berries. You can also add fresh herbs like mint, basil, and thyme for an extra refreshing touch.
In conclusion, there are many foods you can prepare to combat the heat without spending too much time in the kitchen. Just remember to choose light and refreshing ingredients, use minimal cooking methods, and enjoy the summertime!