The Heat is On!

Here in my corner of the world, the temperature is expected to reach the mid-80s for the next several days. While evenings and nights are comfortable, it's still hot at dinner time. Here are a few easy ideas to help you stay cool on hot summer days:

• Cook in quantity and use over several meals. It takes about the same amount of time/heat to cook two roasts, two chickens, two pork loins, etc. If you have a smaller family, divide a single cut of meat in half, or roast a chicken with a pork loin. Keep up with cooking times and be sure to season pieces differently to add variety.

• Plan meals that require little cooking. Opt for a quick stir-fry or light pasta sauce.

• Cook on the grill to keep the heat outside. (Consider eating out there, too. Take advantage of shade and cool breezes.)

• Use your microwave, crockpot, rice cooker and indoor grill to prepare meals without turning on the stove. They require less energy and create less heat.

• Watch the weather and choose the hottest day of the week to serve a no-cook meal. Toss up a dinner-size salad with garden greens and leftover chicken. Finish off with a popsicle to tickle your inner child!

• Practice good timing. If time permits, eat dinner an hour later. (Be sure to leave ample time between dinner and bed, tho.) Or cook dinner early in the morning before it gets hot.

• "Swap" meals. Have your cooked meal at lunch and sandwiches at dinner.

Any one of these choices will help put a chill on your desire to hit the drive-thru. Stay cool!

***Coming soon I'll offer some specific recipes using these ideas. If you'd like to share some of your own, you can do that right here at the Frugal Finesse Yahoo Group.***