10 Refreshing Summer Recipes

The dog days of summer are here and if you’re like me, you’re craving cool food, ice-cold drinks and trying to avoid using the oven and stove every night. So apart from throwing together the same boring salad or living on a liquid diet of smoothies, what is there to eat when the temps are nearing triple digits?

From salad to dessert to cocktails, here are 10 refreshing recipes to help you cool off while enjoying the best of seasonal produce this summer:

Mango Cucumber Salad with Jicama from Grateful Grazer

Go back to basics with a zesty blend of fruits, veggies and fresh herbs. This zippy salad is great on it’s own, as a side dish or even as a topper for burgers, tacos and rice!

Simple Vegan Caprese Salad from This Savory Vegan

Is there anything better than a vine-ripened tomato? It’s one of my favorite parts of summer. Head to your local farmers market (or your own backyard garden if you have one!) and load up on fresh tomatoes and basil to make this classic salad. Try swapping avocado or even vegan mozzarella for the tofu if it suits your fancy.

Chickpea Caesar Pasta Salad from Emilie Eats

When a steaming hot bowl of pasta sounds miserable in the summer, opt for veggie-loaded pasta salad instead! This recipe does involve the oven, but only for 15 minutes.

Rainbow Raw-Maine Taco Boats from Minimalist Baker

Raw veggies are the ultimate refreshing food on a hot + humid day and these colorful raw taco boats are loaded with crunch, flavor and nutrition.

Fattoush Nachos with Crispy Za’atar Roasted Chickpeas from The Full Helping

Fattoush (Lebanese salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, spices and fresh herbs) is one of my favorite salads and serving it atop pita triangles is pure genius. If you don’t want to heat up the oven to roast the chickpeas, try using rinsed and drained chickpeas from the can.

Tempeh Sandwich with Chipotle Cashew Aioli from Nutritious Vida

A delicious spin on the BLT, the only heat this recipe requires is a few quick minutes in the pan to cook the tempeh. Stuff this sandwich with your favorite seasonal veggies for a crisp and filling lunch or dinner.

Grilled Tofu Shawarma Skewers from Vegan Yack Attack

I’m jealous of everyone who has a grill and can make this delicious recipe outdoors (that is one major downfall of living in a city apartment sans outdoor space)! The trick to getting firm and spongy tofu is to freeze and thaw it before marinating it.