There’s something great about cold dinners. Whether it’s hot out or you’re just tired of cooking, these are the meals people can’t stop talking about. They’re quick, they hit the spot, and they make it easy to keep things chill—literally. If you're looking for something that feels fresh without feeling like work, you're in the right place. These cold dinners are hot right now for a reason.
Veggie Taco Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.
Pesto Tortellini Salad
This quick tortellini pasta salad comes together in 20 minutes with fewer than 10 ingredients. It's a great pick when you want something fast, fresh, and made for hot days.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad
Vegan Niçoise Salad
Chickpeas, briny olives, and crisp veggies make this vegan Niçoise a solid no-cook option. It works well when you’re after something fresh that still feels like a real meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Niçoise Salad
Veggie Pinwheels
Veggie pinwheels take minutes to prep and work as an easy lunch or snack. They fit right in when it’s too hot to turn on the stove and you still want something that holds up.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pinwheels
Mediterranean Black Bean Salad
Black bean salad with cilantro lime dressing comes together in just 10 minutes. It’s a smart choice when you want something quick that doesn’t feel thrown together.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Black Bean Salad
Veggie Taco Salad
All the familiar taco flavors, none of the meat—this vegetarian taco salad is quick to prep and full of crunch. It’s a great dinner when you want something filling but light.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Taco Salad
Chickpea Tuna Salad
Chickpea “tuna” salad is ready in 10 minutes and works great for sandwiches or bowls. It’s one of those go-to meals that checks the boxes for fast, simple, and no heat needed.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Tuna Salad
Pimento Cheese Sandwich
This pimento cheese sandwich is ready in five minutes and packs big flavor without much effort. It’s a solid pick when you’re short on time and don’t want to cook.
Get the Recipe: Pimento Cheese Sandwich
Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Vegan Caesar salad with shaved Brussels sprouts and crispy chickpeas is quick to pull together. It’s a weeknight option that feels fresh and doesn't need the oven.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad
Tabbouleh made with hemp seeds is a light, no-cook meal that’s ready fast. It’s great when you want something different but easy to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad
Hot Turkey Sandwich
Leftover turkey gets repurposed into a simple sandwich with gravy and peas. It’s a low-effort way to make dinner without extra cooking.
Get the Recipe: Hot Turkey Sandwich
Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Kale and apple salad with poppy seed dressing is a sharp, crisp combo that’s ready in minutes. It’s great for when basic greens just aren’t cutting it.
Get the Recipe: Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono
This Japanese cucumber salad is crisp, clean, and takes almost no time to make. It works great as a side or light dinner when you want something cool and easy.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono
Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich
Rotisserie chicken salad with almonds has crunch and creamy dressing all in one bite. It’s a no-cook win whether you throw it on a sandwich or eat it straight.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich
Chopped Italian Sandwich
Chopped Italian sandwiches layer meats and cheese on soft rolls for a 10-minute meal. It’s a no-cook classic that fits right into nights when you want it easy.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Italian Sandwich
Tofu Spring Rolls With Apple
Tofu spring rolls are packed with fresh veggies and paired with a spicy peanut sauce. They’re great for days when you want something crisp and quick without cooking.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Spring Rolls With Apple
Sweet Potato Kale Salad
Kale, prunes, feta, and pomegranate get tossed in a punchy vinaigrette for a salad with range. It works whether it’s a regular weeknight or you’re trying to mix it up.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad
Sweet and Creamy Goat Cheese Salad with Fruit and Cranberry
Arugula, cucumber, cranberries, and goat cheese come together in this sharp, fast salad. It’s a quick fix when you want something that feels fresh but not basic.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Creamy Goat Cheese Salad with Fruit and Cranberry
Zesty Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Chickpeas, pickles, and spices mix into a quick, no-cook sandwich filling. It’s a reliable option when you want something simple that still hits the mark.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
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