It’s hot — like, really hot. And humid. And it’s time for dinner. The oven? Out of the question. In fact, eating doesn’t even seem that appealing. Cheese and crackers — again? Forget it.
Instead, here are seven light and simple suppers you can seek out when it’s just too warm to fuss.
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Moules Provencal at Brasserie 292 in Poughkeepsie
Let’s face it, the French are more or less the kings and queens of unfussy eating. That’s why you should probably head over to this Main Street brasserie, our own little French bistro here in the Hudson Valley. Sit in — elegant — air conditioned comfort and graze on a plate of Moules Provencal, mussels gently cooked in white wine, garlic, fresh herbs, tomato, and butter, served with perfectly crisp frites. You’ll feel fancy-pants, even if your true prerogative is to beat the heat.
Related: The Hudson Valley Wins at Summertime Ingredients
Rosemary Garlic Fries at Newburgh Brewing Company in Newburgh
That’s right, a plate of fries for dinner. Because you’re an adult. And you deserve it. But really though, these Rosemary Garlic fries are next level, crisped up with just the right amount of spices and served with house-made mayo. Plus, you would be at one of the best breweries around, and a cold one on a sweaty day is a no-brainer.
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Sylvia’s Garden Pizza at Oak Pizzeria Napoletana in Hudson
Was there a question whether pizza would make this list? This new-ish Hudson standout serves up authentic wood-fired crusts prepared right in front of you. The Sylvia’s Garden pie is the perfect pair for an overheated August evening, topped with ultra-fresh and seasonal summer squash, spring onions, and basil pesto. It’s served individual (12-inch) style, so you won’t feel groggy or over-full. Plus, ordering this particular pie comes with an extra benefit: All of the profits are donated to The Sylvia Center, a non-profit organization with a mission to inspire youth to eat well by getting hands-on at a farm and in the kitchen.
Related: All the Pizza, All the Time
Summer Spinach Salad at Kovo Rotisserie in Kingston
We know the high temperatures can be distracting, but don’t forget that these dog days are good for something: absolutely outstanding produce. And the Greek-influenced Kovo knows how to make the most of it. Order the summer spinach salad and you’ll get a flavor and textural collage of baby spinach, berries, pickled red onion, almonds, feta, and fresh mint tossed through a greek honey and citrus vinaigrette. This is absolutely season-approved on its own, but if you happen to whet your appetite enough, you do have the option to add a protein of your choice (it could be hard to pass up a deep-fried poached egg, after all).
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Bruschetta at Redoubt Cafe and Wine Bar in Garrison
Like pizza, toast is another light meal go-to we adore (And crave. And want to eat all the time.). The chefs at this Putnam County find kick it up a notch by offering, not plain toast, but the much more fun to say, bruschetta. The menu currently features two different types, neither of which are what you expect. You can enjoy the Farm Egg option, with asparagus, Fontina, and truffle oil, which is prepared on buttery brioche, or go a simpler — albeit, just as delicious — route, and order the balsamic and garlic white bean bruschetta, served on baguette. The extra cool thing about these items though, is that you have several different size (and price) options. Pretty cool for a hot night.
Falafel and Hummus at Sixty 5 on Main, Nyack
Finally, falafel, a.k.a a fried, chickpea-based mixture that’s practically made for steamy nights. At this Nyack hotspot, it’s authentic as can be, and served with creamy hummus (another warm-weather winner), a palate-cleansing Israeli Salad, and fresh pita points. ‘Nuff said.
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A Spread of Snacks and Small Plates at The Amsterdam in Rhinebeck
Okay, this is the ultimate summer evening jackpot: The menu is divided into sections prime for this type of eating — snacks, cheeses, charcuterie, and small plates (plus main entrees, but will talk about those another day) — that are perfect for warm weather (or anytime) dining. Try the House Terrine, made with pistachio and bourbon-soaked cherries and plated with perfectly grilled bread, Warm St. Albans Cheese, with radishes and Maldon sea salt, or confit chicken wings with local sriracha-honey and white barbeque sauce. Anything you order is guaranteed to be made with care, and, you know, the highest quality local fare available. And, you can go ahead and play a game of bocce ball in their backyard patio area while you mull over your choices. You, my friend, are winning.
