As the sweltering days of summer roll in, the last thing anyone wants to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice delicious and nutritious meals. These minimal - cook recipes are here to rescue your dinner plans during the hottest times of the year, making meal prep a breeze.

Let's start with a refreshing watermelon and feta salad. Watermelon, with its high water content, is the perfect fruit for summer. It not only hydrates you but also adds a sweet and juicy element to the salad. Feta cheese, on the other hand, brings a tangy and salty flavor. To prepare this salad, simply dice a small watermelon and crumble some feta cheese over it. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves, torn into smaller pieces. A drizzle of balsamic glaze on top will tie all the flavors together. This salad can be made in minutes and can be served as a light starter or a side dish.

Another great option is the cold soba noodle salad. Soba noodles are made from buckwheat and are a healthier alternative to regular wheat noodles. Boil the soba noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and make them more refreshing. For the dressing, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, a bit of honey, and a splash of sesame oil. You can also add some grated ginger and minced garlic for extra flavor. Top the noodles with shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and some sliced scallions. If you like, you can add some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for added protein. This salad can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed throughout the week.

How about a zucchini and tomato frittata that can be eaten hot or cold? Zucchini is a summer vegetable that is abundant and easy to cook. Start by slicing the zucchini into thin rounds and sautéing them in a bit of olive oil until they are tender. Chop some tomatoes and add them to the pan. Crack a few eggs into a bowl, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or thyme. Pour the egg mixture over the zucchini and tomatoes in the pan. Let it cook on low heat until the eggs start to set. Then, transfer the pan to the oven and broil it for a few minutes until the top is golden brown. This frittata can be cut into slices and served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

For a more substantial meal, try making a tuna and quinoa bowl. Quinoa is a complete protein and is very versatile. Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions. Drain a can of tuna and flake it into a bowl. Mix the tuna with some mayonnaise, chopped celery, and a bit of lemon juice. Layer the cooked quinoa in a bowl, top it with the tuna mixture, and add some sliced avocado and cherry tomatoes. This bowl is not only filling but also packed with nutrients.

Lastly, a classic gazpacho is a must - have in the summer. Gazpacho is a cold soup that originated in Spain. To make it, blend together tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, garlic, and a bit of bread. Add some olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. You can adjust the consistency by adding more or less water. Garnish the gazpacho with some diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil. It's a great way to cool down and get your daily dose of vegetables.

With these minimal - cook recipes, you can enjoy delicious meals without having to heat up your kitchen during the hot summer months. So, get creative in the kitchen and make the most of the season's fresh produce!