Scorching afternoon temperatures can make many hot and heavy meals less appetizing. If you’re still craving Italian food, there are a variety of light dishes to explore. They’re easy on the stomach, and you may even find a new favorite meal that you can continue enjoying throughout the summer. Below, find easy meal ideas for those long sunny days.

3 Perfect Meals for Hot Summer Days

1. Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad is light on the stomach and a great meal if you’re hungry on a hot afternoon. Italian food offers a lot of customization. Try a basic garden salad with a honey poppy seed or vinaigrette dressing. A crisp Caesar salad is another long-time favorite that you can add our diablo chicken or shrimp to. If you have a bigger appetite, an antipasto salad with cheese and meats is filling. For the hotter days, try a chilled pasta salad. You can throw in garden veggies, a protein, and a light mayo dressing. These options are also great if you’re trying to watch what you’re eating. 

2. Cold Sandwiches

Sandwiches can be light if you stack them accordingly. Try a slice of roast beef with horseradish and muenster cheese. A traditional turkey and cheddar sandwich is a favorite for picnics. If you want something more traditional of Italian food, go with a Genoa salami or Cappicola sandwich with provolone and roasted peppers. You can always share with a friend or save half to eat later. If you have a larger appetite, pair a sandwich with a small green salad or pasta salad.

3. Eat Out 

In the end, if you don’t feel like cooking and are craving Italian food, stop by your favorite restaurant and eat what you want. Nothing can replace a heaping plate of spaghetti and meatballs, Fettuccine Alfredo, or Chicken Alfredo. If your taste buds are telling you to go for that eggplant Parmigiano or lobster ravioli, do it. Come to Paul’s Pasta with a strong air conditioner, hunker down, and enjoy the meal you’ve been craving all day.

If you’re in the mood for mouthwatering Italian food, stop by Paul’s Pasta Shop. This Groton, CT favorite features a diverse menu of cold and hot Italian dishes and has served the area since 1988. They maintain a family-friendly atmosphere, and are the perfect place if you need a quick meal or want to sit down with the family. They also offer catering services, which you can learn more about on their website. Call (860) 445-5276 to speak with their staff and connect on Facebook for news and updates.