Keep Your Cool This Summer!

Ovens and air conditioners do not mix if your goal is to stay cool.  You can have tasty summer meals and keep the cooling bill under control at the same time with a few simple hints.  Rethink your cooking appliances.  Meals can be easily prepared on or in the following appliances:

 

 

• Grills
• Toaster oven
• Side burners on the grill
• Bread machine
• Slow cookers
• Outdoor fire rings
• Crock pots
• Camp stoves
• Electric roasters
• Pressure cookers

Most of these appliances can easily be plugged in on a rain-safe patio.  Use caution around small children.

Rethink your idea of a meal.  Try eating pancakes for dinner, or having a picnic inside with sandwiches and fruit.  Try hearty salads with meat or fish purchased from the store.  Fajitas on the grill are yummy—as are frozen pizzas.  Try chili in a crock pot, and serve over hot dogs for dinner.  A protein (like hummus or beans/cheese) and vegetables wrapped in a tortilla or in a pita makes a wonderful cool meal.  This keeps the kitchen cool and makes prep a snap!

If you must use the oven, try preparing more than one meal at a time.  Finally, try to avoid using your oven during the heat of the day to maximize your air conditioning.

Summer Vegetable Salad with Grilled Bread
Cooking Light  – recipe –