By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
No boiling. No baking. No fire. No flames. No problem! Absolutely no heat is required in these recipes, which will transport you around the world - without the need to turn on the oven during a sweltering hot Aussie Summer.
Guacamole with Pickled Jalapeño
When the temperature rises, the last thing anyone wants to do is add fuel (or any open flame) to the fire, in the kitchen. That’s why dips are the perfect Summer solution - quick to make and full of refreshing flavours. A classic Mexican guacamole recipe, like this one made with pickled jalapeños, is ideal for lazy days and poolside gatherings.
The creamy avocado is mixed with zesty lime, fresh herbs and punchy peppers, to offer a cooling contrast to the heat of the day. Plus, guacamole pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips or fresh veggies, making it a versatile snack. Without breaking a sweat.
Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls
It’s no surprise that Vietnamese Summer rolls (they’re transformed into Spring versions when they’re fried) are one of the best no-cook foods you can enjoy when the mercury rises. These delicate, fresh rolls are filled with vibrant herbs, crisp veggies and juicy prawns or pork, wrapped in soft rice paper. The beauty of these rolls lies in their simplicity and the fact that they’re incredibly versatile - add whatever fresh ingredients you love and dip them in a tangy peanut sauce or hoisin dressing for that perfect bite - without any heat.
Raw Fish
Light, elegant and full of fresh flavours, raw fish dishes like ceviche, sashimi, crudo and carpaccio are excellent options for no-cook warm-weather meals. Whether you’re serving up tuna ceviche, salmon sashimi or cool-as-a-cucumber crudo, these dishes are cooling, refreshing and perfect for warmer weather. The vibrant acidity of citrus fruits, paired with the delicate texture of raw fish, creates a dish that feels luxurious without any cooking involved. For a taste of Italy, this swordfish carpaccio recipe brings the best of a Euro Summer, Down Under.
Beef Tartare
While raw meat may not be the first thing you think of for a no-cook meal, this classic French-inspired dish is a perfect way to enjoy high-quality beef in a whole new way. The delicate texture of finely chopped beef, seasoned with capers, mustard and raw egg yolk, makes for a dish that’s rich yet light. The best part? It’s served cold, making it the ideal choice for warm evenings when you want something satisfying but not too heavy.
Watermelon and Feta Salad
Salads are the ultimate no-cook, no-fuss Summer meal. They’re light, refreshing and packed with nutrients to keep you feeling energised in the heat. An excellent example is this Eastern-Mediterranean-inspired watermelon and feta version - a wholesome nod to the culinary profiles of Greek and Cypriot cuisine - that takes mere minutes to prepare. The stars of the combination are the fruit and the cheese - crisp, creamy and perfectly sweet and salty with just the right balance of flavours. Paired with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze it is simple yet satisfying and proof you don't need the heat to create a cool meal.
No-Bake Chocolate Cake
When it’s too hot to turn on the oven, no-bake cakes like this Turkish chocolate cake are a sweet solution. Made with layers of biscuit soaked in a rich chocolate mixture, this dessert is indulgent and surprisingly easy to make. No cooking required - just let it set in the fridge and enjoy a cool, chocolatey treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for those days when you want to keep things simple yet decadent.
