Summer is upon us, and it’s time to enjoy pool days, beach trips, boat rides, and all kinds of summer fun! However, one aspect of the season that’s not quite as delightful is the summer heat. Here at our headquarters in Pelion, SC, the average heat index in June is 101.3°F. With high temperatures like that, it feels as if you’re immediately dripping in sweat once you step outside the comfort of your air-conditioned home.
Since most people are doing everything they can to cool off during this time of year, turning on the oven or working over the stove to make a meal is not ideal. There’s no need to add even more heat to your home! So, what’s our solution? Stick to light, refreshing meals that require minimal heat and will help you keep cool. Read on to get the recipes for the dishes we’ll be savoring all summer long!
PB Banana Kale Smoothie
Of course, we had to start off with a smoothie! Made with frozen bananas, your milk of choice, coconut water, greens, protein powder, chocolate chips, peanut butter, and ice all blended together, it’s both filling and refreshing. The frozen banana and ice will cool you off quickly, while the coconut water contains electrolytes for rehydration after sweating in the heat. And with the protein powder and peanut butter, this smoothie is basically a full-on meal in a cup!
Strawberries & Greens Smoothie Bowl
If you prefer to eat your smoothies with fun toppings rather than drink them from a glass, this recipe may be the perfect fit. All you need to do to make this smoothie bowl is blend kale, frozen cauliflower, banana, peaches, and pineapple with cashew milk until smooth and creamy. Pour it into a bowl, then garnish with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, coconut flakes, chia seeds, and banana slices are all great options!
Protein Collard Wraps
For a light and fresh lunch, try collard wraps. Replacing the traditional tortilla with a collard leaf will not only cut out some calories but also adds essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and iron. This simple recipe just calls for spreading chicken salad over collard leaves, rolling them up, and chilling in the refrigerator before enjoying. You can make your own chicken salad, or pick up a premade package at your local grocery store to make it even easier!
Turkey Avocado Roll-Ups
These turkey avocado roll-ups make another easy, low-carb wrap alternative! Just lay slices of deli turkey on your plate, place collard greens, avocado, and strawberries on top, and roll them up. You’re getting protein from the turkey and healthy fats from the avocado, both of which will aid in keeping you satiated until your next meal. Delicious, filling, healthy, and no cooking required…it’s a winning combination!
Summer Grapefruit & Avocado Kale Salad
Tangy grapefruit, smooth avocado, salty feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans come together to form a delectable combination in this summery salad. Set atop a bed of kale and drizzled with a homemade dressing made from ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, getting your veggies in doesn’t get any better than this! Pro tip: massage your chopped kale with olive oil to add some extra healthy fats and make the greens easier to chew and digest.
Cool Fruit & Veggie Pops
Our list wouldn’t be complete without a dessert recipe, would it? These refreshing popsicles make the perfect finale. To create this healthy summer treat, just purée watermelon, strawberries, and kale in your blender, stir in blueberries and lime juice, and freeze in popsicle molds. After a few hours, your fruity frozen dessert will be ready to enjoy!
Beating the heat each summer can be difficult, especially for those of us living in the South. However, no-cook recipes like these can make that challenge a little bit easier. Cool smoothies, fresh wraps, crisp salads, and frozen popsicles are just the right thing to satisfy your cravings in the midst of the scorching heat. And as a bonus, they are all filled with plenty of fruits and veggies to keep you healthy and energized as you enjoy the sun this season. Happy summer, and stay cool!