21 cold dinners that make you forget about cooking
Hot weather calls for dinners that don’t require heating up the kitchen. These cold meals are refreshing and still feel like a proper dinner. They work well any time you want something lighter but still filling.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
This tasty recipe hits all the right spots. Creamy, sweet, crunchy, and super tasty, this flavorful Greek yogurt chicken salad is an all-time fave. Get the recipe: Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Cold Cut Sub Sandwich
This cold-cut sub is loaded with meats, cheese, and all your favorite toppings on a fresh bakery loaf. Just slice it up for an easy picnic, weeknight dinner, or game day snack. Get the recipe: Cold Cut Sub Sandwich
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This chicken Caesar pasta salad takes the classic Caesar to the next level with chopped chicken and tender pasta. Packed with all the classic flavors, it’s ideal for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a main meal. Get the recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Salmon Crudo with Asian Dressing
Raw salmon isn’t just for sushi. This salmon crudo is a simple, elegant way to enjoy it at home, with fresh ingredients that make it a light but satisfying meal. Get the recipe: Salmon Crudo with Asian Dressing
Mediterranean Salmon Avocado Salad
This easy salmon avocado salad is a protein-packed, nutritious meal with a delicious mix of flavors and textures. It’s a go-to favorite that’s both satisfying and simple to make. Get the recipe: Mediterranean Salmon Avocado Salad
Instant Pot Chicken Salad
Instant Pot chicken salad keeps it simple with chicken breast, celery, bell pepper, green onion, mayo, and Greek yogurt. Perfect for meal prep and easy to switch up with different mix-ins. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Salad
How to Make a Cheese Plate
A simple cheese plate makes an easy no-cook dinner that feels a little special. Just pair your favorite cheeses with fruit, crackers, and a few extras for a meal you can put together in minutes. Get the recipe: How to Make a Cheese Plate
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
This cranberry pecan chicken salad brings the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Scoop it onto a sandwich, wrap, or lettuce cups for a leisurely meal, no picnic or potluck required. Get the recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Easy Salmon Chopped Salad
This summer salmon chopped salad is loaded with juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and your favorite dressing, vinaigrette or creamy, both work. Serve it over arugula and don’t skip the crumbled feta on top. Get the recipe: Easy Salmon Chopped Salad
Lemon Basil Chicken and Rice Salad
Such a fresh and tasty way to use a bounty of fresh basil. This salad features cooked and cooled rice, fresh lemon and tender chicken, and it totally eats like a meal. Get the recipe: Lemon Basil Chicken Rice Salad
Watermelon Gazpacho
Watermelon gazpacho is a chilled soup that blends sweet watermelon with tomato, cucumber, and fresh mint. Topped with avocado and microgreens, it makes a refreshing and easy no-cook dinner for warm days. Get the recipe: Watermelon Gazpacho
Waldorf Chicken Salad
This Waldorf chicken salad comes together in no time, with juicy chicken, crisp apples, celery, and sweet grapes. A perfect balance of fresh, sweet, and savory flavors. Get the recipe: Waldorf Chicken Salad
Tuna Poke Bowl
This tuna poke bowl is made with sushi-grade fish, crisp veggies, and a savory poke sauce. It’s a fresh, colorful meal that comes together without turning on the stove. Get the recipe: Tuna Poke Bowl
Buffalo Chicken Salad
This Buffalo chicken salad brings restaurant-quality flavor with crunchy veggies, avocado, chopped chicken, and crumbled bleu cheese. Topped with creamy buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, it’s perfect as a main dish or game-day side. Get the recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad
Panera Green Goddess Salad
Panera’s green goddess salad is a vibrant, crunchy cobb salad topped with chicken and bacon, all brought together with a creamy dressing. Why pay more when you can easily make this tasty copycat version at home? Get the recipe: Panera Green Goddess Salad
Fig, Prosciutto and Brie Open-Faced Sandwich
Sweet figs, salty prosciutto, creamy brie, and peppery arugula come together on crusty sourdough for a sandwich that feels a little fancy. Serve it for lunch, brunch, cold dinner, or as an appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress. Get the recipe: Fig, Prosciutto and Brie Open-Faced Sandwich
Coronation Chicken Salad
Originally served to the Queen, this flavorful chicken salad lets you eat like the royals. With its golden dressing with balanced flavors of creamy mayo, sweet preserves, and spicy curry, you will be feeling like a true aristocrat. Get the recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad
Avocado Tuna Salad
The fun thing about this protein-heavy tuna salad is ditching the mayo and using creamy avocado instead. It is super easy, delicious, and a fun twist on an old-school classic. Get the recipe: Avocado Tuna Salad
Easy Gazpacho Recipe
This chilled Spanish tomato soup is made with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, and onion for peak summer vibes. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for keeping cool all season. Get the recipe: Easy Gazpacho Recipe
Curry Chicken Salad
Rich and creamy with hints of sweetness and spice. This curry chicken salad is packed with flavor and protein. Get the recipe: Curry Chicken Salad
Salmon Poke Bowl
This salmon poke bowl is fresh, flavorful, and ready in minutes. It’s an easy no-cook meal that’s perfect for a light but satisfying dinner. Get the recipe: Salmon Poke Bowl