Summer is in full swing — and that means sun-soaked days, backyard hangouts, and hopefully less time sweating it out in a hot kitchen. Whether you're craving a break from your usual meal routine or looking to skip cooking altogether (no judgment!), we've got you covered with tasty, simple ideas that celebrate the best of summer produce.
Coach’s Tip of the Week: Beat the Heat with Smart Timing
As temps climb, the idea of cooking a full meal mid-afternoon sounds… not ideal. Try prepping oven or stove-top meals early in the morning or after sunset to keep your kitchen (and you) cool and collected.
Stock Up, Slim Down Your Effort
Want to keep your meals healthy and stress-free? Give your pantry a warm-weather refresh. Think local, in-season, and vibrant. Local summer produce is picked at its peak, which means more flavor, better nutrition, and fewer mystery miles traveled. Bonus: It’s often easier on your budget and better for the planet, too.
Here’s a tasty roundup of what’s in season and how to make the most of it without breaking a sweat:
Summer Veggies & Easy Ideas
Broccoli: Steam and stuff in a wrap with BBQ onions, avocado, and sprouts — picnic-perfect.
Cauliflower: Keep it simple with a steam, a little butter, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Celery: Classic PB + “ants on a log” (raisins) for a snack even adults love.
Cucumbers: Stack ‘em with tomato, basil, and mozzarella for no-cook party bites. Or blend into a chilled cucumber soup!
Green Beans: Steam and toss with sautéed onions and olive oil. Add salt, pepper, done!
New Potatoes: Boil till tender, then top with cheese, yogurt, and green onions.
Summer Squash: Quick sauté in olive oil, splash of soy sauce, then toss with pasta and parmesan.
Tomatoes: Caprese-style is the way to go — fresh tomato slices with basil, olive oil, and mozzarella.
Summer Fruits & Sweet Treats
Apples: Bake with sweet potatoes and raisins for a warm-weather twist on comfort food.
Melons: Melon balls = instant salad upgrade.
Peaches: Make a better-for-you cobbler with whole grain crust — or just grill and drizzle with honey.
Pears: Grill and top with a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
Plums: Rinse and enjoy fresh — summer’s candy.
Raspberries: Toss into salads, pancakes, smoothies, or yogurt. Try them with balsamic for a gourmet flair.
Strawberries: Freeze a stash now for winter smoothies — or blend into a spinach, banana, and yogurt breakfast treat.
Summer Herbs That Make Every Meal Better
Add a sprinkle of fresh flavor to everything from grilled veggies to chilled pasta salads with these seasonal favorites: Basil, Cilantro, Dill, Garlic, Marjoram, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, Sage, Tarragon, Savory
Bottom Line
Summer cooking should be light, bright, and doable. So hit up your local farmer’s market, stock your fridge with in-season goodness, and enjoy delicious meals — no oven marathon required.
Stay cool, eat fresh, and make this your most flavorful summer yet!
