No-Cook Meals for Summer Days

When temperatures soar, the last thing you want to do is slave over a hot stove. But you don't have to settle for eating a big salad night after night. The abundance of in-season produce available this time of year gives you plenty of other options that require no (or very little) cooking. These five low-calorie menu suggestions will help you stay cool and satisfied.

CHILLED SOUP
You can use fruit or vegetables. One light supper favorite: a creamy peach soup. Blend 2 cups fruit chunks, 1 cup orange juice, and 1 cup lowfat plain yogurt. (This serves two; double the ingredients for four.) Drizzle on a little honey and serve with crusty bread. A savory option is gazpacho. For a filling, low-calorie twist, thicken it with vegetables, not bread (as many traditional recipes do).

DRESSED-UP PASTA
Want a meal on the table in five minutes? Buy a small portion of pasta salad from a high-end deli, then add sliced fresh summer vegetables-like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, chives, red onion, and radishes- and flake in some water-packed canned salmon.