$ummer $aving$-Recipe$ for a cooler Kitchen

Your AC is already working overtime when the heat is on and the humidity is high.  And the hottest room in your house is usually the kitchen.  I know mine is and the last thing I want to do after a long hot ride home from the office is stand in front of the stove preparing the evening meal...

Here are a few easy tips for lowering the temperature while not having to go hungry

1)  Don't use the oven or range top.  Summer is a great time to grill burgers, chicken or chops, keeping the heat outside.  And don't forget your slow cooker, toaster oven or electric skillet for meal prep.

2)  Cover your post when cooking to keep more of the heat in the pan.  This reduces cooking time and keeps the kitchen cooler.

3)  Serve a cold meal.  Salad suppers, chilled soups, even cold grilled meats and marinated vegetables make a delicious summer meal.

4)  Keep the air moving with a ceiling fan.  It allows your body to cool down and doesn't use much electricity.

5)  Air dry your dishes instead of using the heat dry cycle on the dishwasher.

6)  Clean the refrigerator coils on the back of your fridge to get the best cooling power for your money.

7)  Let someone else do the cooking!