Who likes cooking inside during the Summer? If you are anything like me the answer is “not me”! If I can prepare my meals in the wee hours of the quiet morning bliss and find any recipe to “grill it, I will!” So, naturally we thought, some of you may also want to escape the heat of the oven, the fire on the cooktop and the warmer temperatures already inside our homes. Hopefully, you too will relish in these 5 quick and delicious “Beat the Heat” recipes. Where’s the E A S Y button?!

1. Salmon Burgers

   Let’s start with the Grill. Of course, you can throw on a burger or a few steaks, but did you ever think you could make your own salmon burgers in a flash? Now you can! These Asian inspired Salmon patties have ginger, garlic, green onions, cilantro, soya sauce, etc. Make these with the green onion soy mayonnaise to really showcase your culinary skills and they will be gobbled up in no time. Click here for the full recipe.

2. Blackened Beer-brined Grilled Chicken

   Keeping it on the Grill with this “Blackened Beer-brined Grilled Chicken” recipe! Yum. The smoky flavours will emerge when using apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cinnamon, etc. Just add a cold potato/pasta salad and you are ready for the crowds. The creator of this recipe recommends using bone in chicken over chicken breasts, as the bones will keep the meat moist and stop it from drying out. If you are using chicken breasts just cut down on your grilling time. Find the recipe here

3. Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad

   If you haven’t tried this scrumptious and refreshing Summer salad, then you HAVE TO make this! It really is that simple…watermelon, feta cheese and fresh mint. The sweetness of the watermelon, the tartness of the feta and the surprise taste of mint accompany each other perfectly not to mention that it only takes 5 minutes to prepare. This salad will no doubt become your “go to” for any Summer party or get together. Click here

4. Mexican Corn Salad

   Over the years, I have made different versions of this salad and it’s always a winner! With ingredients like fresh corn on the cob, avocado, lime, cilantro and coconut oil it’s like having a party in your mouth. You may choose to grill the corn on the BBQ a day or two ahead (or use leftover cobs) to make this delicious salad. Use your own creativity by adding some grilled Chicken or prawns for some extra protein. Recipe courtesy of Oregon Live here

5. Tuna Tartare

   This hearty fish tastes great when fresh and has excellent nutritional value including Omega 3’s and powerful anti-oxidants. You will need a bit of soya sauce, fresh lime, shallots, sesame oil, cilantro…plus more. The key to making this recipe is using “sushi grade” tuna and ensuring it is finely chopped. If you have any sushi lovers, they will appreciate this one! Click here for the full recipe