When it’s hot out and your kitchen feels like an oven, turning on the stove isn’t worth it. That’s where no-cook dinners come in. They’re cool, easy to prepare, and way more satisfying than just grabbing takeout.
Here, we’ve rounded up seven no-cook meals that beat delivery and go beyond basic sandwiches. You’ll find simple dinners using ingredients like chickpeas, canned salmon, burrata, and fresh vegetables. These meals are perfect for hot nights when you want something fresh, filling, and quick to prep. Let’s get to it.
7 easy no-cook dinners for the summer
Forget reheating leftovers or ordering in again. Some of these no-cook ideas use pantry staples like canned beans or tuna, while others make the most of summer produce like tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado.
1. Black bean taco salad with lime crema
Instead of heating tortillas, turn your tacos into a layered bowl. Use canned black beans, crunchy lettuce, shredded cabbage, chopped tomatoes, and avocado. A simple lime crema—made with sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a little garlic—brings everything together. You can swap in shredded rotisserie chicken or add a handful of tortilla chips.
2. Zucchini noodles with ginger-soy shrimp
Zucchini noodles (or store-bought zoodles) are the base for this refreshing, Asian-inspired bowl. Toss them with precooked shrimp, scallions, shredded carrot, and a dressing of soy sauce, vinegar, fresh ginger, and lime juice. Let it sit for a few minutes so the flavors absorb. It’s crisp and light, while still packing enough protein to be a full meal.
3. Caprese chickpea salad
This one takes the classic tomato and mozzarella combo and gives it more power. Add canned chickpeas, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. For more flavor, use marinated mozzarella or a splash of pesto. Serve it on its own or over baby spinach.
4. Salmon-stuffed avocado
Scoop canned salmon into halved avocados and top with a squeeze of lemon, a bit of chopped red onion, and a pinch of salt. Add some fresh dill or a dollop of Greek yogurt if you like. Serve it with whole-grain crackers, greens, or even just eat it straight with a spoon. It takes about five minutes to make.
5. Tomato and burrata sandwich
Use a good piece of crusty bread or toasted sourdough and add thick slices of ripe tomato and fresh burrata. A quick relish made with chopped jalapeños and roasted red peppers adds a sweet-spicy contrast. If you’re skipping bread, make it a salad instead.
6. Chopped Italian salad sandwich
Layer classic Italian deli ingredients—like salami, provolone, lettuce, banana peppers, and olives—on a cutting board. Chop everything together into bite-sized pieces, then pile onto a sandwich roll or scoop into lettuce cups. Add a quick red wine vinegar dressing or drizzle of olive oil. It’s like a deli sub, just easier to eat and faster to make.
7. Cucumber-salmon sandwich
Use rye, pumpernickel, or whatever bread you like. Spread with cream cheese, layer on canned salmon, cucumber slices, fresh dill, and a splash of lemon juice. Add cracked black pepper and you’re done. This one tastes with a little tang and a crunch in every bite.
