25 Cold Dinner Ideas When It's Too Hot to Cook
All ready to tote out to the potluck.
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Just the mere thought of having a hot plate of food in front of you on an even hotter day is enough to make anyone sweat. Yes, the classic burger and fries combo is an absolute summer staple. But on days when the temperature outside is unbearable, the idea of consuming anything other than a light and refreshing meal is simply unthinkable. So, when you're feeling a bit hungry, but would rather not turn on the oven, the next best option is to think of some easy-to-make cold dinner ideas.
Of course, you can expect a variety of salad recipes and pasta salads to make this list. (They can double as cold lunch ideas, too.) But there are also some other quick dinner options included for when you're in a pinch. Just look at the buffalo chicken wraps, the make-ahead Caprese frittata, or the lobster and shrimp meals for when you're feeling extra fancy. Many of these recipes can be served chilled or at room temperature, and some don't require turning on the oven at all!
Summer is all about being creative, but when the sun is scorching and the heat makes things difficult, this list of cold dinner recipes is here to save the day. Take advantage of all the summer veggies and fresh herbs, and these ideas will save your appetite, too. So keep your cool and carry on. Your dinner awaits!
Chickpea Salad
Chickpeas may be the source of protein in this salad, but the bowl is also bursting with chopped veggies and creamy avocado. A little feta is sprinkled in, making it both a healthy and tasty option.
Get the Chickpea Salad recipe.
Asparagus Salad
Make a side veggie the main course. Toss asparagus with bacon, parmesan, walnuts, radishes, fresh herbs, and a lemony vinaigrette. You can even add white beans for extra protein. It will keep fresh for days!
Get the Asparagus Salad recipe.
Tortellini Pasta Salad
Proof you can eat pasta cold! This salad is full of bold Italian flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, savory salami, and briny pepperoncini peppers. The only thing you have to cook is the tortellini.
Get the Tortellini Pasta Salad recipe.
Antipasti Chopped Salad
Speaking of bold Italian flavors, this idea has no cooking at all! Combine everything you love about the classic Italian appetizer (meats, cheeses, marinated artichoke hearts) and toss them into a flavorful salad.
Get Ree's Antipasti Chopped Salad recipe.
Spring Rolls
Get rolling with these fresh shrimp spring rolls. 🤪 Yes, they contain shrimp at the core, but mangos and some light veggies also make an appearance. A few of these will make your belly feel full while keeping you cool.
Get the Spring Rolls recipe.
Southwestern Pasta Salad
Looking for the potluck salad of your dreams? It's right here: You'll love the smoky chipotle peppers, crispy corn kernels, creamy avocado, and refreshing cilantro.
Get the Southwestern Pasta Salad recipe.
Ramen Noodle Salad
Don't let the intricate presentation of this delightful bowl surprise you... ramen noodle salad is pretty darn easy to make! It does require some brief baking, but once that part is done, you'll toss the instant noodles, cashews, and sesame seeds together with some coleslaw and mandarin oranges. Doesn't that sound sweet?
Get the Ramen Noodle Salad recipe.
Shrimp Pasta Salad
Anyone looking for a picnic-perfect meal should look no further than this shrimp pasta salad. The seafood is tossed in the ultimate dressing, backed up with some Old Bay seasoning and crunchy veggies for some added flare. Though, each spoonful is made complete with the perfectly cooked pasta.
Get the Shrimp Pasta Salad recipe.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Ree's Mediterranean salad is light, fresh, and filled with pretty much any ingredient you can think of. Chickpeas make this an appetizing plate, but the cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives transform it into a complete winner.
Get the Mediterranean Orzo Salad recipe.
Buffalo Chicken Wraps
A quick wrap for dinner doesn't sound like a bad idea at all, especially when you throw some buffalo chicken into the mix. The only thing "hot" in this meal is the sauce, which can be cooled down with creamy ranch dressing, crunchy veggies, and blue cheese.
Get the Buffalo Chicken Wraps recipe.
Lobster Rolls
It's not everyday you get to have lobster. So, when you're feeling especially creative, you can make waves with these epic roles. Add some potato chips on the side, and you'll be licking your fingers after you're done.
Get the Lobster Rolls recipe.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Sure, you may like your typical chicken Caesar salad, but this recipe is so much more than that. It's heartier (hello, pasta!), filling you up without too much effort.
Get the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe.
Caprese Frittata
Mozzarella, pesto, eggs, oh my! This savory frittata includes all of the ingredients in a classic Caprese salad. It's just as delish served cold as it is warm.
Get the Caprese Frittata recipe.
Couscous Salad
Fresh herbs have a way of transforming things for the better, such is the case with this couscous salad. This is truly a Mediterranean bowl of bliss, especially with the refreshing cucumbers, toasted walnuts, and fresh dill.
Get the Couscous Salad recipe.
Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This bow tie pasta salad is dressed to impress through and through. It's full of peas, ham, and cheddar cheese. It sounds simple, but oh, is it good!
Get the Bow Tie Pasta Salad recipe.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Any time crispy bacon is involved, you know it's about to be life changing. The combo of creamy ranch and cheddar cheese just makes it all the more heavenly.
Get the Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad recipe.
Shrimp Salad Rolls
Shrimp salad rolls just scream "summer," which is kind of perfect when those hot days come at you stronger than ever. Also, what's better than some buttery rolls filled with creamy shrimp?
Get the Shrimp Salad Rolls recipe.
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
This dish is comprised of everyone's favorite Southern potato salad and loaded baked potato toppings. The best part is you can let it chill in the fridge overnight, and the flavors will blend naturally.
Get the Loaded Baked Potato Salad recipe.
Burrata Salad
This colorful dish is as good as it looks. The juicy tomatoes pair perfectly with the creamy burrata cheese and the tangy balsamic glaze really ties the recipe all together, allowing for each bite to be as flavorful as the last.
Get the Burrata Salad recipe.
Taco Salad
When it comes to taco salad, it's all about the toppings! While you can get creative and put your own spin to it, adding jalapeños, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips over some seasoned beef is always a safe bet.
Get the Taco Salad recipe.
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