It’s summertime in Texas, again. The days are long and hot but your dinner prep doesn’t have to be! This summer, skip the oven and keep cool with these tips.
Cooking in Texas during the summer takes a little strategy to stay cool. Instead of relying on your oven or stovetop, lean on tools that do the heavy lifting without raising the indoor temperature.
- Slow Cooker: A slow cooker is a set-it-and-forget-it solution that keeps heat contained. Toss in proteins, veggies, and seasoning in the morning and come home to a warm meal.
- Outdoor Grill: Take the heat outside. Grilling keeps your kitchen cool and adds incredible flavor. Start with a protein, add some vegetables for the side, and you have a balanced dinner.
- Air Fryer: An air fryer is perfect when you’re short on time but still want something warm and crispy. It produces far less heat than a traditional oven and cooks quickly. Many recipes and pre-packaged meals even offer air fryer instructions alongside the oven options.
- Toaster Oven: For smaller meals, a toaster oven is a smart alternative. It uses less energy, emits less heat, and works well for reheating leftovers, baking small portions, or making flatbreads and toasted sandwiches.