Too Hot To Cook!

    Too Hot to Cook!
    By: Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA

    Summer is here and it’s hot! The last thing I want to do is fire up the stove during another heat wave, so I go for meals that require minimal prep and little to no cooking.

    Here are a few of my favorite Too Hot to Cook options:

    Summer Soups:
    Cold soups such as gazpacho, cucumber, and even strawberry are light, refreshing, and hydrating—perfect for hot weather!

    Simple Summer Salads:
    Variety is key. Combine crisp vegetables, seasonal fruits, and a protein source like grilled chicken (pre-cooked), canned beans, or hard-boiled eggs. Dress it all with a light oil-based vinaigrette for a quick and nourishing meal.

    Summer Sandwiches:
    Keep it exciting by swapping your usual sandwich bread for a pita pocket or whole grain wrap. Fill with your favorite lean meat, cheese, and plenty of veggies. Skip the high-fat mayo and top it off with creamy mashed avocado or fresh salsa.

    Eat More Seafood:
    Canned tuna, sardines, and salmon are flavorful, protein-packed options that don’t require any cooking. Toss them into salads, grain bowls, or lettuce wraps for a quick meal rich in omega-3s.

    Greek Yogurt Power Bowls:
    For a refreshing, no-cook protein option, Greek yogurt is a star! With up to 17g of protein per serving, it’s a versatile base for sweet or savory meals. Try topping it with berries, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for breakfast—or mix with cucumbers, lemon, and herbs for a savory snack or dip.

    Stay cool, stay nourished—and keep cooking to a minimum!

    Smoked Salmon Tartine with Lemon-Dill Yogurt Sauce

    smoked salmon tartine

    Prep: 5 minutes

    Makes: 2 Servings

    Ingredients:

    Lemon-Dill Yogurt Spread:

    • ½ cup FAGE Total 5%, 2%, or 0%
    • Finely grated zest of 1 small lemon
    • 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
    • 1 tbsp minced fresh dill
    • Fine sea salt and black pepper

    Serving:

    • 1 small baguette, cut in half lengthwise and lightly toasted
    • 4 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon
    • ¼ red onion, very thinly sliced
    • ½ seedless cucumber, thinly shaved lengthwise with a vegetable peeler
    • 2 Tbsp small capers
    • Fresh cracked black pepper
    • Dill Springs

    Directions:

    1. Lemon-Dill Yogurt Spread: In a small bowl, whisk together FAGE Total, lemon zest, lemon juice, and dill until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
    2. To Serve: Let toasted baguette cool completely. Spread the yogurt-dill mixture on each half of the baguette. Top with smoked salmon, onion, and cucumber. Sprinkle with capers, pepper, and dill sprigs.
    3. Serve immediately.