When the high temperature for the day is well above 90, and the humidity is so palpable you can almost swim to work, the last thing you want to do is spend the day with the oven on. This is not the time for boeuf bourguignonne or molten lava cakes; a time like this calls for fresh seafood and in-season produce. You can have both a cool house and throw a successful soirée—just serve your guests this light-yet-satisfying menu, without turning on the oven or stove.
Photo: Matt Duckor
South Side
A darling of the country club set, fizzy and floral South Sides deliver welcome refreshment with a lemony hint on a hot summer’s day.
If citrus and gin aren’t really your cup of tea (or, uh, highball glass of booze), we’ve still got you covered.
Photo: Peden + Munk
Sweet and Tangy Hummus
The secret ingredient to this garlic-free number is red pepper; smoky-sweet, it also introduces a rich ochre color to the dip.
Photo: Marshall Troy
Cantaloupe Gazpacho
Gazpacho is the OG summertime dish. In this recipe, cantaloupe’s sweetness is complemented by the bite of red onion, and garnished with mint leaves.
Photo: Shantanu Starick
Sea Bass and Tomato Ceviche
Ceviche is the ideal light-yet-satisfying main for a summer dinner. And for all its complex flavor, it’s actually fairly simple to make.
Photo: Michael Graydon Nikole Herriott
Snap Pea Salad with Burrata
If you’re into creative additions, toss some in-season black mint into the salad for a more complex taste.
Photo: Marcus Nilsson
Watermelon Granita
This granita may not even need any added sugar if the watermelon is truly ripe and sweet. Just be sure to sprinkle on some ground chile before serving to add balance.
