Cold dinner recipes are perfect for those hot summer nights when the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove. These meals are not just cool; they're a refreshing break from the usual dinner grind. Think crisp, vibrant dishes that are quick to whip up and won't heat up your kitchen. Whether you're hosting friends or just want something light and easy after a long day, these cold meals are exactly what you need.
![Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Bacon-Ranch-Chicken-Salad-Cucumber-Boats-rotated-1.jpg)
Roasted Cauliflower Soup
![An image of roasted cauliflower soup in a white bowl, with fresh thyme on the side.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Roasted-Cauliflower-Soup.jpg)
Creamy roasted cauliflower soup with hints of garlic, thyme, and cumin provides comfort any time of year. It's a delightful choice for a light, cold dinner.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Pesto Tortellini Salad
![A close up view of cooked tortellini pasta salad in a white bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Tortellini-Pasta-Salad.jpg)
A tortellini pasta salad that's quick and easy to prepare with fewer than ten ingredients. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's an excellent side dish for a cool summer evening.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad
Light Summer Gazpacho (No Bread!)
![An overhead image of two gazpacho dish in a white bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Gazpacho.jpg)
Enjoy this summer gazpacho, crafted with fresh ingredients, as a refreshing cold soup on warm days. It's a fantastic addition to any BBQ spread.
Get the Recipe: The Best Vegan, Gluten-Free Summer Gazpacho
Instant Pot Minestrone
![A close-up image of a ladle filled with Instant Pot minestrone soup, with the pot in the background.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Instant-Pot-Minestrone-1.jpg)
This vegetable soup, made in the Instant Pot, combines fresh vegetables and beans for a wholesome meal. It's ready in under 30 minutes, making it great for a quick, cold dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Minestrone
Chicken Lime Soup
![Spicy chicken lime soup in bowls.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/chicken-lime-soup-1.jpg)
Spicy chicken lime soup, a fusion of chicken noodle and tortilla soup, is a warming, noodle-less option for a cozy winter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lime Soup
Stuffed Tomatoes
![Stuffed Tomatoes inside white casserole.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Stuffed-Tomatoes-7-1-1.jpg)
Baked Stuffed Tomatoes with Bolognese sauce offer a versatile grilling option for BBQs. Serve them hot or cold for a nutritious and flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Tomatoes
Watermelon Rind Gazpacho
![A bowl with watermelon rind gazpacho topped with red onion, fresh herbs, and diced avocado.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Watermelon-Rind-Gazpacho.jpg)
Refresh with a unique gazpacho made from watermelon rind. This cold soup is both tasty and eco-friendly, making it a smart choice for hot days.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Rind Gazpacho
Ramen Noodles Cold Salad
![A bowl of food on a cutting board.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ramen-Noodles-Cold-Salad.jpg)
Ramen Noodle Salad offers a crunchy and vibrant take on pasta salads. With fresh veggies and a tangy dressing, it's an appealing choice for a light, cool dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodles Cold Salad
Seafood Pasta Salad
![Seafood pasta salad in white serving bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/seafood-pasta-salad-l.jpg)
Combine shrimp, crab, and pasta in a creamy dressing for a seafood pasta salad that’s perfect for a cool summer dinner. It’s both refreshing and light.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
![Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Bacon-Ranch-Chicken-Salad-Cucumber-Boats-rotated-1.jpg)
These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a speedy and straightforward snack or lunch option. They feature a chicken salad blend with ingredients like canned chicken, bacon, and cheese, nestled into hollowed-out cucumber halves.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats
Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings
![A bowl of chicken and dumplings with a spoon and parsley.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Cracker-Barrel-chicken-and-dumplings-copycat.jpg)
Cracker Barrel's chicken and dumplings, with tender chicken and soft dumplings, bring comfort on cold winter days. This copycat recipe makes it easy to enjoy at home.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
![Broccoli Salad with Bacon inside wooden bowl.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Broccoli-Salad-29.jpg)
This classic Broccoli Salad, with bacon and blueberries, is a nutrient-packed, cold dish perfect for summer gatherings. Great for picnics and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Low Carb Sushi Rolls
![Keto Friendly Sushi Rolls served on a black board.](https://parallelplates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Sushi21-1.jpg)
Enjoy fresh, low-carb sushi rolls made with cauliflower rice. These easy-to-make rolls are perfect for a cool dinner when you want something light yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Sushi Rolls
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