Summer is a time for light, refreshing meals that don’t require extensive cooking or heating up the kitchen. Small appliances like slow cookers, Instant Pots, air fryers and microwaves can be absolute game changers when it comes to creating delicious summer dishes without breaking a sweat. By leveraging these kitchen gadgets for summer cooking strategically, you can enjoy delicious homemade meals this summer while keeping your kitchen cool and comfortable.
Set it and forget it meals
Slow cookers are perfect for preparing hands-off meals like pulled pork or chili while keeping your kitchen cool. The beauty of these set-it-and-forget-it meals lies in their convenience. You simply throw your ingredients into the crock, select your desired setting, and let the dish cook while you go about your day. Whether you’re working from home or out enjoying the sunshine, coming back to a delicious meal ready to be enjoyed makes for a stress-free dining experience.
Slow cookers are not only great for traditional stews and soups but can also be used to create a variety of dishes like chicken tacos, BBQ pork chops and even desserts like bread pudding or apple crisp.
Their low-and-slow cooking method allows flavors to meld while keeping meats tender and juicy. Plus, with minimal cleanup required since they use only one pot, slow cookers are attractive options for busy summer days when spending time laboring in the kitchen isn’t high on anyone’s list.
Quick one-pot meals
If you’re looking to whip up quick, flavorful meals without breaking a sweat in the kitchen this summer, the Instant Pot is your best friend. This versatile device is perfect for creating delicious one-pot meals in no time. With its pressure cooking function, you can cook ingredients like beans, vegetables and meats much faster than traditional methods.
One of the great advantages of using an electric pressure cooker for summer cooking is how it keeps your kitchen cool. Instead of keeping the oven or stovetop on for hours, the Instant Pot generates minimal heat while cooking your favorite dishes efficiently.
Whether you’re craving a hearty stew, tender pulled pork or flavorful risotto, this handy appliance can do it all with ease. Plus, its multifunctional capabilities make meal prep and cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for those busy summer days when you’d rather be relaxing and enjoying the sunshine than toiling in a hot kitchen.
Crispy dishes without heating the kitchen
An air fryer is a modern kitchen marvel that promises crispy dishes without the need to heat up your entire kitchen. With its rapid air technology, this compact appliance can transform your favorite foods into crunchy delights with just a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying methods.
Imagine enjoying perfectly golden french fries, crispy chicken wings or crunchy vegetables without feeling like you’re trapped in a sauna. An air fryer not only keeps your kitchen cool during these sweltering summer days but also cuts down on cooking time, making it an efficient option for quick and tasty meals.
By harnessing the power of high speed hot air circulation, an air fryer achieves that coveted crispiness that usually requires deep frying. Say goodbye to greasy splatters and hello to guilt-free indulgence with this innovative tool that will revolutionize your summer cooking experience.
Fast minimal-heat cooking
Microwaves are often underestimated in cooking because they are viewed as mere devices for reheating leftovers or popping popcorn. However, microwaves are powerful tools for minimal-heat cooking especially during the hot summer months when turning on the oven feels like an unbearable task. With their ability to cook food quickly and efficiently using electromagnetic waves, microwaves offer some great cooking shortcuts.
Microwaves have speedy cooking capabilities and you can whip up delicious meals without breaking a sweat. From steaming vegetables to preparing quick apple mug cakes or even cooking fish filets with minimal fuss, they offer endless possibilities for creating tasty dishes while keeping your kitchen cool and comfortable. So next time you’re faced with sweltering temperatures but still craving a home-cooked meal, microwaves are your efficient allies for low-heat cooking endeavors.
Appliance tips for summer
When using small appliances like slow cookers, Instant Pots, air fryers and microwaves in the hot summer months, take advantage of timer settings if your device has this feature. Set timers to avoid overcooking and minimize the heat in your kitchen. This is not only energy efficient but will also maintain a low temperature in your cooking area.
Proper ventilation is crucial when using multiple appliances simultaneously to prevent the accumulation of heat and steam in your kitchen. Open windows or turn on exhaust fans to promote airflow and improve overall air quality. This simple step can create a comfortable cooking environment and prevent odors from lingering in your living spaces. Your meal preparation will be much more pleasant during hot summer days if you ventilate properly.
Staying cool while preparing summer meals
It’s important to remember that staying cool in the summer doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of delicious meals. By utilizing small appliances like slow cookers, Instant Pots, air fryers and microwaves, you can create flavorful dishes without breaking a sweat. These handy tools not only help keep your kitchen temperature down but also save you time and energy.
So next time you’re craving a hearty meal or a sweet treat on a sweltering day, don’t hesitate to turn to your trusty kitchen companions. From tender slow-cooked meats to crispy air-fried snacks, the possibilities are endless when it comes to enjoying summer meals while staying cool. These small appliances are your secret weapons for effortlessly cooking your summer meals sweat-free.
Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author based in Connecticut. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa enjoys hiking and taking scenic day trips around New England.