Summer is the perfect season to spend time outdoors and take advantage of the warm weather and long days. But because of the increased temperature and amount a daylight, it can be challenging to want to cook meals inside your home when you could be out enjoying the sunshine and staying cool by the water. So to help make your summer more fun and keep you eating great food throughout these next few months, here are three tips for staying cool while cooking this summer.

Keep Your Food At Safe, Cool Temperatures

When you’re having a BBQ or simply eating a meal set at a table, it’s easy for the time to get away from you. When this happens, many people forget about putting away their food immediately. However, this can be a huge mistake that could cost you your health. According to FoodSafety.gov.mo, food shouldn’t be left out at room temperature for more than two hours without being refrigerated. Because bacteria can begin to grow on food that’s left at room temperature, it’s vital that you store your food properly and at appropriate temperatures during the summer to ensure you don’t wind up with food poisoning.

Doing Summer Picnics Right

Picnics are a must during the summer months. But if you plan to cook raw meat at your picnic, you’re going to want to ensure you’re storing and transporting that food correctly. Toby Amidor, a contributor to FoodNetwork.com, reminds us that food kept in a cooler, especially raw meats, should be surrounded by ice until the time comes to cook them. This will ensure the meat doesn’t grow any unwanted bacteria before it’s cooked. Also, if you’re going to be driving for a while with food in a cooler, try to find room for it in the main cabin of the car where there’s air conditioning rather than putting it in the trunk where it could get too hot and be bad for the food.

Take Advantage Of Healthy Summer Foods

Turning on the stove or oven during the summer is something many people shy away from because of those appliances’ abilities to heat up your home. Even if you have air conditioning in your house, you may not want to spend the money on utilities to use your appliances and have your a/c running extra. Luckily, Brierley Wright, a contributor to EatingWell.com, shares some great ideas for healthy summer foods that require little to no cooking at all. Some of the foods you should take advantage of when you’re wanting to stay cool are watermelon, barbecued corn on the cob, cherries, tomatoes, raspberries and blueberries, along with a big glass of iced tea. These delicious and healthy treats will help you feel full while simultaneously keeping the heat down around you.

If you’re looking for ways to have safe, healthy food this summer, use the tips mentioned above to ensure your food stays fresh and cool during the hottest time of the year.

Anna Jones
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