Summer Survival: 9 "Too Hot to Cook" Dinner Ideas
Whether you're enduring a sweltering 90-degree day or a 100-degree scorcher, the last thing you want to do is prepare dinner when it's too hot to cook. Staying cool and comfortable while enjoying a satisfying meal is essential. Survive those "too hot to cook" evenings with these refreshing, minimal-effort dinner ideas.
1. Shrimp and Avocado Nachos
Take your taste buds on a trip to Flavor Town with zesty shrimp and avocado nachos. Layer succulent shrimp, creamy avocado slices, zesty lime juice, and a sprinkle of cilantro onto a bed of crunchy tortilla chips. Finish with a drizzle of sour cream or a dollop of fresh salsa for a dish that's as refreshing as it is satisfying.
2. Avocado Egg Salad on Toast
Harness the power of creamy avocado and protein-rich eggs by mashing ripe avocados with chopped hard-boiled eggs, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread it generously on toasted bread for a refreshing twist on the traditional egg salad sandwich. This nutritious, too-hot-to-cook meal is quick to prepare and perfect for hot summer nights.
3. Cool, Crisp Salad
Enjoy a refreshing salad bowl without turning on the stove. Combine pre-washed salad greens with ready-to-eat toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, croutons, and pre-cooked grilled chicken. Toss with your favorite dressing or a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
4. Chilled Wraps
Make delicious wraps or rolls using pre-cooked ingredients. Fill soft tortillas or large lettuce leaves with cold cuts or canned tuna mixed with mayo. Then, add sliced avocado, crisp lettuce, canned beans, fresh onions, and a drizzle of your favorite dressing or sauce. Roll them up and enjoy a handheld meal that's satisfying and easy to fix.
5. Chicken Salad Burgers
For a protein-packed dinner without heating the grill, try chicken salad burgers. Start with your favorite burger buns, or lettuce wraps for a lighter touch. Fill them with pre-made chicken salad—think tender chicken chunks mixed with crisp celery, sweet grapes, and a creamy dressing. Add a slice of cheese or crunchy lettuce for extra texture.
6. Tasty Tacos
Embrace the ease and versatility of the classic taco, where minimal cooking meets maximum flavor. Opt for pre-cooked meats and vegetables that just need a quick steam or microwave. Fill soft or hard taco shells with seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or even sautéed veggies. For a cool finish, top with fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
7. Caprese Pasta Salad
Combine cooked pasta (pre-cooked and chilled for minimal effort) with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing pasta salad perfect for summer evenings.
8. Refreshing Gazpacho Soup
Embrace the chilled goodness of gazpacho, a classic Spanish soup made for hot summer nights. Blend ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and garlic with olive oil and a splash of vinegar—season with salt, pepper, and a hint of cayenne for a refreshing kick! Chill thoroughly and serve with warm, toasty bread or a light salad.
9. Order Mexican Food Take-Out
When cooking is out of the question — minimal or otherwise — treat yourself to a delicious meal from Burracho's. With our mouthwatering selection of Mexican dishes and sides, Burracho's is the go-to choice for a hot-weather dinner treat.
Our burrito bowls are a particularly great option. They offer a satisfying mix of rice, beans, fresh salsa, fajita veggies, and delicious protein options like chicken, carnitas, barbacoa, steak, and ground beef — all without any cooking on your part. Just place your order, sit back, and enjoy a flavorful meal that puts the heat on your tongue and not in your kitchen.
Burrachos The Best Takeout for Hot Weather
Want a fresh-cooked meal but can't stand the thought of turning on the stove or oven? Burrachos has you covered with one of the best too-hot-to-cook dinner ideas: Mexican food! We'll handle the heat for you so you can enjoy delicious tacos and burritos without raising the temperatures inside your home. Head to your nearest Burrachos tonight or place an online order for pick up.