15 Quick and Easy Cold Dinner Recipes for a Hot Day

As the summer heat continues to blaze, it’s essential to have a repertoire of cold dinner options to help beat the heat. These refreshing dishes are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, taking 20 minutes or less to make. From vegan superfood grain bowls to raw vegan zoodles with romesco, these cold dinners are perfect for a hot summer day.

One of the standout dishes to try is the Vegan Superfood Grain Bowls. This nutrient-packed recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, thanks to convenient shortcuts like prewashed baby kale, microwavable quinoa, and precooked beets. These grain bowls are perfect for meal-prep lunches or quick dinners on busy nights.

For those looking for a raw vegan option, the Raw Vegan Zoodles with Romesco is a must-try. This spiralized zucchini noodle dish with red pepper sauce is not only refreshing and satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. With just five ingredients, you can whip up the sauce in a food processor or blender, toss it with the zoodles, and serve for a delicious and healthy meal.

If you’re a fan of classic grain bowls, the Chickpea & Quinoa Grain Bowl is a simple yet flavorful option. Packed with hummus, quinoa, avocado, and loads of veggies, this dish is a satisfying and nutritious choice for a summer dinner.

For those who prefer a heartier meal, the Meal-Prep Curried Chicken Bowls are a great option. With the help of sheet-pan meal-prep chicken and cooked whole grains, you can create these flavorful bowls in just a few minutes. Keep them in the fridge for an easy dinner on a busy weeknight or for healthy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

If you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad, the Quinoa Avocado Salad is a perfect choice. This protein-packed salad pairs quinoa with creamy avocado for a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a side, for a picnic, or as a light dinner.

These are just a few of the cold dinner options to help you cool down during the summer heat. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a nutrient-packed grain bowl, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you cool and refreshed. Try them out and enjoy a delicious and healthy summer dinner!