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No-Sweat Cooking

By Meghan McAndrews
Created January 10, 2017
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Tried-and-true cooking techniques and recipes for surviving sweltering summer days.

Introduction

It’s no secret that a steamy kitchen is a less-than-desirable place to be once summer’s in full swing. The mere thought of turning on the stove can cause me to break out into a not-so-cold sweat! That’s why during those lazy, hazy days I rely on these four beat-the-heat cooking tricks.

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Avoid the Oven

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And the stovetop, for that matter! Why add extra heat to an already-sweltering situation when you can contain it with the magic of a slow cooker? Think of your slow cooker as a cool little lifesaver. There’s almost nothing you can’t make in them (Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Chex Mix, anyone?). Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting, leaving you more time to float in the pool. (For 20 of Betty’s Best Slow Cooker recipes, download our handy new e-book—it’s just 99 cents!)

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Skip the Dishes

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Just like hot ovens are out of the question during the dog days of summer, so are dirty dishes. My No. 2 trick? Avoid them altogether! Serving as a mixing bowl, baking dish and serving tray all in one, foil packs are simply genius! (These Grilled Salmon Paella Packs are an excellent example of how foil packs make a solid stand-in for the stovetop.) Just grab some foil, mix up your favorite ingredients, fold, grill, then eat and relax.

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Chill Out

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Chilling out is easier said than done on a 90-degree day. Unless you’ve got a freezer full of creamy treats, that is! Sticky-sweet sundaes, ice cream sandwiches and freezer cakes all make excellent distractions from soaring temperatures. Until chill-pills become a real thing, I’m relying on frosty treats as my third trick to beat the heat. (For more fun ideas for staying cool with your kiddos, don’t miss Camp Betty’s No-Heat Week, debuting July 9!)

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Drink Up

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Yes, yes, staying hydrated is a common-sense tip you probably already know. But what you might not know is how delicious and refreshing it can be. From water infused with fruits to sangria slushies, there are infinite ways to drink up and stay cool. (Just be sure to double-up on water when consuming alcohol.)

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