Too hot in the kitchen?

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.

Grilling

Outdoor grilling is an obvious way to avoid heating the kitchen. Look beyond burgers and hot dogs — grilled vegetables are delicious. 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 salads

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 to make a simple, complete meal.

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.

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.