Small Kitchen Appliances to Use During Hot Weather
Too Hot to Use Your Oven? These Alternative Appliances Will Keep Things Cool
As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
Oh, hey, if you haven't noticed, the world is experiencing a massive heatwave. Not fun, especially when you need to cook — as in, dinner is in an hour and you can't bear to turn the oven on because your place is already roasting. Instead of going full oven, look for alternative kitchen appliances to get you fed without heating up your home. With a little ingenuity, you can eat well without turning the oven or stove on. For the appliances you don't have on hand, look no further than Bed Bath & Beyond for blenders, air fryers, and other small appliances that make summer cooking easy — no sweat. Keep reading to get some ideas for staying cool.
Crux Artisan Series 6 Slice Digital Air Frying Toaster Oven
Can't decide between an air fryer and a toaster oven? You don't need to. This Crux Artisan Series 6 Slice Digital Air Frying Toaster Oven ($126) bakes, browns, crisps, dehydrates, and more — all in one clever device. Roast corn, bake a pizza, or just make toast — it's all possible, all in one (not-so-hot) spot.
Cuisinart Convection Microwave Oven With Grill
You already know what a microwave does, but this Cuisinart Convection Microwave Oven With Grill ($300) takes things a step further. Not only does it quickly heat food, it also serves as a convection oven and grill — without giving off the heat that the traditional versions do.
Cuisinart Griddler
Fancy a panini? How about a grilled cheese, pancakes, or even some flawlessly cooked burgers? The Cuisinart Griddler ($120) can handle it all. The five-in-one appliance incorporates a contact grill, a panini press, a full grill, a full griddle, and a griddle/grill combo. So whether you're cooking breakfast or veggie dogs, you can get it done with this compact appliance.
Ninja Professional XL Food Processor
This Ninja Professional XL Food Processor ($160) is useful for prep work, but it can also be used to create no-cook foods like baba ghanoush and hummus. Add pita and veggies and you've got a Mediterranean feast.
Instant Pot 9-in-1 Duo Plus
Often thought of when it comes to wintry dishes like soups and stews, the Instant Pot 9-in-1 Duo Plus ($130) is a secret MVP of the summer kitchen as well. Plug it in, choose your recipe, and cook your dinner just by pressing a few buttons. Seriously, if you want a delicious dinner without heating up the kitchen, the Instant Pot is it.
Black & Decker 16-Cup Rice Cooker
Not only does this Black & Decker 16-Cup Rice Cooker ($35) create fluffy rice every time, it also comes with a steaming basket. That means you can steam veggies, fish, and more — all without turning a knob on the stove.
Ninja Foodi
Oven-roasted vegetables taste delicious, but who wants to run an oven at 425°F in July? Good thing this Ninja Foodi ($180) air fryer can get the job done without roasting your kitchen at the same time. The dual-basket design has separate temperature controls, so you can choose your foods — anything from carrots to potatoes — and cook them perfectly in no time.
Oster 10-Speed Blender
When the weather is sweltering, put gazpacho on the menu. This chilled tomato-based soup is ridiculously quick to make, especially when you're using this classic Oster 10-Speed Blender ($60). Drop in your veggies, blend until smooth, and sip your way to feeling cooler.
