25 Summer Recipes You Don’t Have To Turn On The Oven For

There’s nothing quite like summer — whether it’s long days at the beach or stormy summer nights, this season has a flavor all its own. If you’re anything like me (and granted, I am 9 months pregnant as I write this), when the forecast reads mid-eighties or higher for weeks on end, you’ll be drawn to the shade, cold beverages, and air conditioning more often than usual. 

If you want to eat delicious meals, snacks, and desserts that keep the temperature down while celebrating the freshest ingredients of the season, you’ve come to the right place. This list not only avoids recipes that require the oven, and with a few exceptions, the stove, but it also focuses on the seasonal fruits and vegetables that naturally make the most of that summertime feeling. 

These recipes are best enjoyed outside with friends and a glass of something iced. 

Watermelon Pizza

The best of both worlds: fresh watermelon and the feeling of eating pizza without the extra calories. This is a customizable, incredibly easy recipe to pack for picnics or eat on the back porch. 

Cucumber Salad

Looking for the world’s most refreshing yet simple summer side? Try this delicious cucumber salad with dill, chives, and red onion. You’ll love how it tastes on its own or with a fuller plate. 

Peach Tomato Caprese Salad

This fresh take on a classic caprese incorporates a little sweet with your savory. Just add a baguette, and you’ve got yourself the perfect summer lunch. 

No-Bake Protein Balls

My go-to snack for a no-bake summer, these protein balls give you energy and taste like you’re eating raw cookie dough. If you bring these to your block party, we guarantee everyone will be asking you for the recipe. 

Green Goddess Hummus Salad

If you’re someone with a summer herb garden, this is the hummus salad for you. Basil, parsley, and chives give this tasty dip its gorgeous green color, with lemon, chickpeas, and olive oil keeping those classic hummus flavors going all day long. 

Avocado Egg Salad Chopped Sandwich

This recipe combines two of my favorite things – avocados and eggs – for a delicious chopped sandwich. The dill brings out the summertime flavors, making this a great lunch from June through August (and let’s be honest, probably any other month, too).

Summer on a Plate 

Call it “girl dinner” if you want, this gorgeous plate features peaches, strawberries, burrata, prosciutto, olives, and cherry tomatoes. Enjoy with a baguette, fresh herbs, and your favorite sauces. 

Fresh Mango Salsa 

Amazing on its own, with chips, on tacos, or on salads, this fresh mango salsa celebrates the sweet and spicy side of summer. You’ll love how simple and easy it is to make, with only six basic ingredients. 

Gluten-Free Andalusian Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a summer must-eat, and this recipe lives up to the bright flavor and creamy texture you’re seeking. While there is some fried halloumi on top, if you want to avoid using any heat while cooking I’m sure you could skip that part. 

Epic Summer Salad

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, looking for a side for dinner, or want a salad that can stand on its own for a full, healthy meal, this is your recipe. Summer hits like tomatoes, cucumber, mango, and radishes meet black beans, feta, and spinach in this hearty salad.

Best Ever Guacamole 

With a name like this, you can bet this guacamole is packing the punches. It’s a no-frills, back to the basics recipe that focuses on the essentials: avocado, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime. 

Watermelon Salad with Feta

This watermelon salad combines four summer favorites – watermelon, cucumber, basil, and mint – for a perfectly refreshing side or lunch. The salty feta adds a delicious contrast to the sweet, juicy watermelon. 

Easy Pasta Salad

Okay, you do have to cook the noodles! But I promise it’s totally worth it for this hearty picnic-ready pasta salad featuring cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and basil. 

Cucumber Sandwich 

Sometimes the simplest things are the best, like this classic cucumber sandwich. Whether you’re packing lunch for an outdoor event or just want a summery bite at home, this recipe won’t disappoint. 

Fresh Chunky Corn Salsa 

Have you ever tried putting fresh corn in your salsa? For that bright, classic summer flavor, try this recipe that combines fresh corn with cherry tomatoes, mint, and avocado. Don’t forget the chips!

Tuna Salad Sandwich 

Whether you opt for the sandwich or enjoy it on a bed of greens, you’ll love the ease of this timeless tuna salad. Make it once and have it for lunch all week long. 

Chilled Zucchini Soup 

A fresh take on chilled soup, this zucchini treat does require a little time on the stove, but the flavors make it worth that bit of heat. Plus, you can make this smooth and creamy soup in advance to save time if you have a gathering coming up.

Tortilla Pinwheel Sandwiches 

A picnic or potluck go-to, pinwheel sandwiches make a great snack on any summer day. Or, pair them with a salad or chips and salsa for a more complete lunch. 

No-Cook Black Bean Wraps

Avocado, mango, and black beans – what’s not to love? This plant-based recipe is a great no-cook summer lunch or light dinner with no stovetop or oven required.

No-Cook Zucchini Noodles with Pesto 

For hot summer nights, try this super easy zucchini noodle “pasta” with heirloom tomatoes and pesto. It might just become your favorite way to use up all that zucchini from the garden.

Pressed Italian Picnic Sandwiches

The perfect picnic meal, whether you’ve made it to the beach or just to your apartment balcony. These pressed Italian sandwiches are so cute and so delicious. 

White Bean Avocado Lettuce Wraps

Cannellini beans and avocado meet fresh basil and parsley in these anti-inflammatory, tasty wraps. Plus you can easily make one into a sandwich for a fuller meal.

No-Churn Frozen Yogurt Pie 

This one is sure to keep you cool. With Greek yogurt and blackberries, even the crust of this tangy pie is no-bake.

Chocolate Nice Cream

Meet ice cream’s healthy little sister, nice cream. Not only will you feel great about the ingredients, but it’s much easier than making your own ice cream at home.

Chocolate Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies

For when you just need that chocolate peanut butter combo but it’s too hot for the oven. Each bite promises to be moist, chewy, and delicious.

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