Too hot in the kitchen? Try one of these hot weather recipes

Hot weather can sap anyone’s interest in cooking if it means heating up the kitchen. But summertime offers so many fresh fruits and veggies to savor. Of course, fresh summer salads are a common go-to for hot days.

Here are some healthy ideas to try if you want to beat the heat.

Summertime grilling recipes

Outdoor grilling is an obvious way to avoid heating up the kitchen. Look beyond burgers and hot dogs — grilled vegetables are delicious, with more fiber and less saturated fat. Portobello mushrooms, corn, bell peppers, and zucchini are all great for the grill. Try this grilled zucchini, tomato, and mozzarella wrap.

Grain bowls and pasta salad ideas

True, pastas and grains need heat for cooking, but you can cook them early in the day before it gets too hot. Or you can use leftovers from a previous meal. You can also find precooked quinoa or brown rice in many grocery stores. Precooked quinoa is a great shortcut for this quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and tomatoes.

Salads or grain bowls made with whole grains such as farro, quinoa, or bulgur can be surprisingly hearty due to their high fiber content. Add in veggies, dressing, and additional protein of your choice for a simple, complete hot weather dinner idea.

Pasta salads are a timeless summer dish. This summer garden pasta features summer veggies at their peak and makes for excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.

Stovetop cooking

You don’t have to turn on the oven to make this eggplant sandwich. Searing the eggplant on the stovetop gives it lots of flavor without generating much heat. Pair with watermelon granita for a cool and light dessert.

Cooking in the air fryer

Air fryers offer a way to cook healthy recipes without having to turn on the oven. They’re especially useful in hot weather when you want to keep your kitchen cool. Many oven recipes can also be adapted for the air fryer, just reduce the cooking time slightly and keep an eye on portion size to make sure it cooks evenly.

Try air fryer-style zucchini fritters for a light and crispy snack or meal. Instead of heating up the stove top, lightly oil the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 375 degrees. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until golden brown and firm. You may need to adjust the time slightly depending on your air fryer model.

Don’t let the heat force you into a take-out habit. With these recipes, you can enjoy the flavors and nutrition that come from summer produce.