Top 5 Summer Recipes to Stay Cool and Keep Calories Low

The challenge of cooking during the scorching summer months can make the kitchen the least appealing room in your home, especially when you aim to maintain a light and healthy diet. Fortunately, an assortment of delicious low-calorie recipes tailored for summer is available, perfect for keeping you refreshed without the weight concerns. These recipes are ideal whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a lively barbecue, or a serene evening at home, ensuring each meal helps you stay cool and keeps calorie intake minimal.

1. Fresh Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint

Watermelon epitomizes summer, its hydrating properties and low calorie content making it an excellent choice for a summer salad. This recipe harmoniously brings together the lush sweetness of watermelon, the rich creaminess of feta cheese, and the brisk freshness of mint, creating a vibrant dish that is as nutritious as it is enjoyable.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup of cucumber, sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• A handful of fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, and feta cheese.
2. Chop the mint leaves finely and add them to the bowl.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix.
5. Serve immediately and savor the fresh, juicy flavors.

This exquisite salad stands out among low calorie summer recipes for its bursting flavors and effective management of calorie intake.

2. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

The summertime brings about the peak season for grilling, and these lemon herb chicken skewers fit the bill perfectly. They are simple to make, wonderfully flavorful, and low in calories, which makes them an excellent choice for any family barbecue or weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken cubes in the mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the prepared skewers.
5. Grill the skewers for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden brown exterior.
6. Accompany with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

These skewers are a highlight among low calorie summer recipes, offering a mouthwatering taste without the guilt.

3. Chilled Avocado and Cucumber Soup

On a simmering day, a bowl of cold soup can be just the right remedy. This chilled soup made of avocado and cucumber is not only creamy and cooling but also simple to prepare, offering a fulfilling low calorie treat that satisfies your hunger effectively.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• A handful of cilantro leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend avocados, cucumber, yogurt, vegetable broth, lime juice, and cilantro in a blender until smooth.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
4. Serve the soup in bowls, garnishing with cilantro leaves or an extra dollop of yogurt if desired.

This chilled soup exemplifies low calorie summer recipes that cater to both the palate and nutritional needs.

4. Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

For those craving pasta but not the calories that often come with it, zucchini noodles present a fabulous alternative. Dubbed “zoodles”, these are tossed with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a light and flavorful dish that satisfies the pasta cravings without the caloric overload.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Increase heat to medium-high, add zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and continue to cook until they begin to soften, another 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the basil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Plate the noodles, topping with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Zucchini noodles with cherry tomatoes and basil are superb low calorie summer recipes that bring a touch of freshness and zest to your dining table.

5. Fruit-Infused Iced Green Tea

A rejuvenating drink is as essential as the meal itself in the summer. This iced green tea, infused with fresh fruits, is a brilliant low-calorie beverage that hydrates and refreshes, all while offering a plethora of health benefits.

Ingredients:

• 4 green tea bags
• 1/2 cup fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Brew green tea according to package directions and allow to cool to room temperature.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea with fresh berries and lemon slices.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to infuse the flavors.
4. Stir in honey or agave nectar if using, before serving over ice.

This iced green tea stands out among low calorie summer recipes as a delightful and invigorating drink option, ensuring you stay cool and hydrated. By incorporating these low calorie summer recipes into your diet, you not only enjoy a range of delicious and refreshing meals but also manage your health and weight effectively during the hot summer days. Embrace the seasonal flavors and keep your meals light yet satisfying!