Don’t get me wrong—I love summer. Give me beach days, picnics, and long sunny afternoons. What I don’t love? That sticky summer heat that makes me want to stay indoors with the AC on full blast.
Since we’re in the middle of one of those heat waves, I thought it would be the perfect time to share a few of my favorite ways to beat the heat. From refreshing recipes that won’t leave you standing over a hot stove to simple kitchen tricks and a few products to help you cool down, these ideas can help make those extra-hot days a little more comfortable.
So, until we feel that first crisp fall breeze, let’s embrace summer—and stay as cool as possible while we’re at it!
Recipes to Beat the Heat
When it’s hot outside, the last thing I want to do is turn on the oven and make the kitchen even warmer. These recipes are perfect for hot summer days, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a refreshing side, or a sweet treat that doesn’t require much effort.
Classic Macaroni Salad
A classic summer side for a reason! This macaroni pasta salad is creamy, flavorful, and makes for the best leftovers. Serve it at your next picnic, bring it along to a barbecue, or keep a bowl in the fridge for an easy lunch throughout the week.
No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert
Cool, creamy and deliciously easy, this no-bake cherry cheesecake dessert is another great option for those days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. The cherry topping adds the perfect pop of summer sweetness, and it can be prepared ahead of time and chilled until you’re ready to serve.
Lemon Orzo Salad
Bright, fresh and packed with summery flavor, this lemon orzo salad is just the kind of recipe I crave when it’s hot outside. The lemon adds a refreshing zing, while the orzo makes it satisfying enough to serve as a light meal or side dish.
No-Bake Oatmeal PB Cookies
Need a sweet treat without heating up the kitchen? These no-bake cookies are the answer! Chocolate and peanut butter make for an irresistible combination, and because they don’t require an oven, they’re especially perfect for those hot summer afternoons.
Crockpot Shredded Chicken
Let your slow cooker do the work while you stay cool! This crockpot shredded chicken is an easy summer staple that can be used in so many ways—from tacos and sandwiches to salads and wraps. Best of all, you don’t have to stand over a hot stove to get a delicious dinner started.
(don’t forget to try my taco soup, too!)
No-Bake Lemon Blueberry Pie
There’s something extra wonderful about a dessert that requires absolutely no oven time in the middle of summer! This no-bake lemon blueberry pie is cool, creamy, and bursting with refreshing flavor.
Kitchen Tips to Keep Your Cool
It’s not just the recipes that can help you beat the heat. These small kitchen changes can make a surprisingly big difference when temperatures start to climb!
1. Embrace No-Bake Recipes
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating (like the recs I gave above)! Summer is the perfect time to lean into no-bake recipes. From chilled desserts to salads and sandwiches, there are plenty of delicious options that won’t heat your kitchen.
2. Use a Slow Cooker
One of my favorite summer kitchen shortcuts is the slow cooker. Instead of turning on the oven or standing over the stove, let your slow cooker handle dinner for you. It’s especially handy for shredded chicken, pulled pork, soups, and easy summer dinners.
3. Make Use of an Outdoor Grill
If you have a grill, summer is the perfect time to use it! Moving your cooking outdoors keeps the heat out of the kitchen and gives you an excuse to enjoy some fresh air while dinner cooks.
4. Cooking Time Matters!
If you do need to use the oven or stove top, try whipping up your recipe earlier in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures have started to drop. You can even prep several meals at once so you don’t have to turn on your appliances every day.
5. Keep Your Fridge and Freezer Stocked
Having plenty of cold ingredients and refreshing snacks on hand makes hot days so much easier. Keep fresh fruit, chilled drinks, yogurt, popsicles, and other grab-and-go favorites ready to enjoy. And don’t forget to make extra portions of your favorite salads so you have an easy, cool meal waiting in the fridge!
Products to Help You Beat the Heat
Sometimes the little things can make a big difference. If you’re looking for a few simple ways to stay more comfortable during the hottest days, these are the products I recommend keeping on hand.
These nugget ice makers are super popular these days. They ensure you’ll always have ice on hand, and they make that satisfying “crunchy ice” you can often only get in the drive-thru!
If you’re grilling outside, try out one of these neck fans that will allow you to stay cool hands free. This one has multiple settings!
Reaching for fruits and veggies this time of the year? These produce containers will keep them fresher for longer.
And if you love smoothies as much as I do, snag this Ninja blender system that will help you make cool, refreshing drinks all season long. It’s even great for soups!
Summer heat may be unavoidable, but that doesn’t mean you have to let it stop you from enjoying the season! With a few easy recipes, some smart kitchen tricks, and the right tools, you can keep things cool.
From my kitchen to yours,
Jill
