Carolina Living

No-Cook Meals for Summer Heat

When your kitchen feels more like an oven than a place to cook, simple meals can be a lifesaver. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction just to stay cool.

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Build no-cook bowls

Easy, flexible and endlessly customizable. Combine a base of greens or pre-cooked grains with a protein like beans, tuna or rotisserie chicken, then add fresh toppings. Try a Mediterranean bowl with cucumbers, tomatoes, hummus and feta, or a taco salad with black beans, corn and avocado.

Fill up on pasta and grain dishes

For something heartier, turn to cold pasta and grains. Prep them ahead and chill for later. Pasta salads or quinoa bowls with fresh vegetables and light dressings taste even better after time in the fridge.

Utilize shortcuts

Make life easier by pre-cutting vegetables and buying store-bought dips and rotisserie chicken. These help you build meals quickly without the extra effort.

Consider wraps, sandwiches and snack plates

Wraps and sandwiches are quick, familiar and require zero heat. A hummus veggie wrap, a deli sandwich or a simple snack plate with crackers, cheese, fruit and nuts can feel both effortless and complete.

Try refreshing salads that fill you up

Salads can absolutely be a full meal — the trick is adding protein and bold flavor. Toss in grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas or cheese. For sauce enthusiasts, finish with a flavorful dressing like vinaigrette, pesto or ranch to add a pop with every bite.

Eating well in the hot sun is a breeze with fresh, easy options. Just keep it cool and simple.

About the Author

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country.

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