When the temps are high, the last thing anyone feels like doing is turning on the stove. And while I’m pretty sure I could make a meal out of chips and salsa, my husband and daughter require a little more substance to their dinners. So what is a (literal) hot mom to do? Try one of these no-cook dinners that are easy to throw together but still manages to pack plenty of flavor.
Here are a few of our favorites.
Pickled Tuna Salad Sandwich
Who says sandwiches are strictly a lunch food? A classic like tuna packs a ton of protein and can easily be mixed and matched with chips, fruit or salad to make a complete meal. Kids not into fish? A build-your-own sandwich bar featuring different cheeses, meats, veggies and condiments is easy to throw together, too.
Get the recipe at Real Simple.
BBQ Chicken Salad
Most of the ingredients for this meal are probably already in your fridge and pantry (minus the jicama, which can easily be omitted). Grab pre-cooked chicken from the market and get to assembling this ultra easy and tasty summer salad.
Get the recipe at Dinner at the Zoo.
Caprese Zoodles
I know that most kids aren’t fooled into thinking “zoodles” are the real deal, but they’re still pretty tasty nonetheless. Don’t own a spiralizer? Many grocery stores sell pre-cut zucchini, squash and carrot noodles, making the dish even easier to assemble. If you’re missing the carbs, add some fresh Italian bread on the side to bulk up the meal a bit.
Get the recipe at Delish.
Summer Rolls
The name is in the recipe! These easy rice paper wraps are full of veggies and color, meaning they have all the vitamins your family needs to fuel their summer fun. For more protein, add in pre-cooked chicken or shrimp.
Get the recipe at Food with Feeling.
Mediterranean Chicken Pitas
Mediterranean food just hits different in the summer. Using pre-cooked or leftover chicken, stuff pitas with chicken, feta cheese and your choice of fresh veggies. We love red bell pepper slices, diced cucumber, chopped spinach or even marinated artichokes. For extra fiber, use whole wheat pita pockets.
Get the recipe at Allrecipes.
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