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Refreshing Summer Recipes for Hot Weather: No-Cook Meals to Keep You Cool

As temperatures soar across Britain, reaching above 35°C last week, the idea of cooking on a hot stove becomes unappealing and impractical. For those without a fully equipped kitchen or simply seeking quick, cooling meal options, this article summarizes a series of no-cook recipes perfect for hot weather. These recipes meld fresh ingredients with bold flavors, providing nourishing and refreshing alternatives to traditional cooking.

Summer Favorite: Cabbage Salad with Peanut and Hoisin Sauce

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The first dish is a vibrant, crunchy cabbage salad dressed with a creamy peanut and hoisin sauce. To prepare, start by soaking brown rice noodles and green soybeans in boiling water until tender — approximately 15 minutes for the noodles. The soybeans serve as an excellent protein source, making this dish both light and filling.

The dressing is straightforward: combine 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1/4 cup of hoisin sauce (which includes ingredients like sweet potato, rice flour, soy, and sesame), and add the juice of half a lemon. Blend well, thinning with water if needed to achieve a desired consistency.

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Next, prepare the vegetable toppings: thinly sliced red and yellow peppers, cucumber, and carrot using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife for uniform, delicate slices. Avocado chunks add creaminess and richness. Once the noodles and soybeans have cooled, assemble the salad by soaking rice paper leaves briefly in warm water until softened.

Lay out the rice paper, then layer the noodles, vegetables, and avocado, wrapping the papers snugly into rolls. These can be eaten whole or sliced with a sharp knife, revealing the colorful interior — perfect for a light, delicious summer meal. The rolls can be dipped in the peanut-hoisin sauce for extra flavor.

Hummus and Dill Sandwich: A Protein-Packed Snack

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The second recipe is a delightful hummus and dill sandwich, ideal for a quick lunch or snack. Begin by draining cooked chickpeas and mashing them with a fork until smooth. Mix in 1/4 cup of vegan mayonnaise (or a preferred alternative) and 1/4 cup of toasted sunflower seeds to add crunch.

Chop half an onion and a bell pepper into small pieces, then incorporate them into the mixture. For added flavor, include fresh chopped dill and sliced green onions or chives. The mixture can be spread over whole-grain bread or used as a filling for wraps with fresh tomato and lettuce, or enjoyed as a dip with crispy vegetables or crackers.

Hearty Lentil and Nut Salad with Spiced Croutons

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The third dish, a robust lentil salad, combines multiple layers of flavor and texture, making it highly satisfying. Create a spice blend by mixing one teaspoon each of garlic powder, sweet paprika, ground cumin, hot pepper powder, onion powder, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper.

Cooked lentils are drained and placed in a large bowl, then drizzled with olive oil, tossing to coat thoroughly. Add crushed roasted sunflower seeds and half a cup of cashews, then mix in the spice blend for added depth. Fresh coriander leaves give a fresh lift, and crispy toasted tortilla chips add crunch.

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The base of the salad includes chopped lettuce, green cabbage, diced red pepper, cucumber, tomato, and half a cup of fresh corn. For toppings and garnishes, prepare cashew cream — blend half a cup of soaked cashews with hot water and lemon juice until smooth — and a quick guacamole made from ripe avocados, garlic, red onion, lemon juice, cumin, and salt.

Layer the lentil mixture on a plate, top with crispy tortillas, olives, spicy sauce, cashew cream, and guacamole, then garnish with chili slices and fresh cilantro for a colorful presentation. This dish is both filling and rich in plant-based proteins, perfect for hot days when comfort food calls for lightness and freshness.

Final Thoughts

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These three recipes exemplify how to stay nourished while keeping things light and no-cook during intense summer heat. They are easy to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and bursting with flavors that invigorate the senses. Whether you’re in the UK or somewhere hotter, these meals are an excellent way to beat the heat and enjoy wholesome, tasty food.

If you enjoyed these recipes or found the ideas inspiring, don’t forget to like the video or article. For questions or suggestions about future recipes, leave a comment below. Thanks for reading, and see you in the next culinary adventure!