In my home, the only appliance I’m turning on this summer is my air conditioner. It’s hot! So why fire up your oven or stove if you don’t have to? Instead, prep a few batches of no-bake snacks to keep on hand along with refreshing raw dishes come mealtime. The following five recipes are easy to make, take very little time to prepare and require zero cooking.
1. 5-Minute Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls
Peanut butter and chocolate is a mouthwatering pair that often comes with excess sugar and overly processed chocolate. Rest assured that this no-bake version fits into your diet and will satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time. Made with real ingredients, these vegan, bite-sized dessert balls are best served cold.
2. Walnut “Meat” Balls
It’s party season, y’all! That means potlucks, picnics and family gatherings. But going to a cookout doesn’t mean that you’re expected to actually cook! The “uncooked” technique isn’t all about desserts! You can easily prep a savory, raw meal with the right ingredients. So while there will be plenty of ribs and cornbread to spare, guests will surely appreciate fresh options on the buffet table.
These chilled, hand-rolled “meatballs” are made from walnuts, sun-dried tomatoes and plenty of herbs to pack on the flavor. Serve atop a salad or bed of raw, zucchini noodles (zoodles) and homemade marinara sauce for a tasty and nutritious bowl of color.
3. Raw Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
If your go-to summer dessert is ice cream, this recipe may change your mind. From crust to crunchy hazelnuts, you’ll dive into three layers of natural, creamy sweetness resulting in a newfound love for dessert. Decorated with hazelnuts, berries and shredded coconut (rather than sugary sprinkles), this raw vegan cake is great for summer birthdays and beyond.
4. No-Bake Peanut Butter Cereal Bars
Whether you’re embarking on a summer road trip or taking a hike, snack bars can be your savior—especially when it comes to hangry kiddos. Avoid processed bars by making your own beforehand! At just 124 calories each, these bake-free bars are made from rolled oats, whole grain cereal, protein powder and peanut butter and naturally sweetened with coconut nectar.
![Raw Vegan Key Lime Pie Garnished with Coconut Shreds | Vitacost.com/Blog]( "5 Easy No-Bake Recipes for Summer")
5. Raw Vegan Key Lime Pie
Possibly the most popular tropical-flavored pie, key lime pie is a beloved summer sweet. The traditional recipes calls for butter-laced crust and gelatin-infused filling—in other words, a whole bunch of yuck!
In this rendition, the secret to its moist-yet-delicate crust is crushed almonds and hemp seeds blended together with soft, sweet dates. Inside, whipped avocado is combined with lime juice, coconut oil and other plant-based favorites for creamy texture and an irresistible taste.
This healthy version requires zero processed ingredients and practically zero time to make. Seriously, you only need a food processor and a pie plate for this one. Top with homemade coconut milk whipped cream and lime wedges for a tasty garnish.
For even more chilled, “uncooked” meals, check out our 3-day high-raw vegan meal plan.