Cook Outside to Keep Your Home Cool

Amanda Peterson

July 5, 2024  •  2 Minute Read

Money Saving Tips

Summer is the perfect time to take your cooking outdoors, not just for fun but also to save on energy costs and keep your home cooler. Using the oven or stove generates heat, raising your home's temperature and making your AC work harder. CreditSoup's Frugal Friday tip this week discusses the importance of cooking outside. It keeps your home cooler and lowers your energy bills. Grilling outside also allows you to enjoy the fresh air and the great outdoors, turning meal prep into a fun and social activity with family or friends. And, grilling adds unique flavors to your food and offers a wide variety of cooking options, from meats and veggies to fruits and desserts.

Picking the Right Grill For You

Choose a grill that suits your needs, whether it’s gas, charcoal, or electric. Think beyond burgers and hot dogs — grilled vegetables, pizzas, and foil packet meals are delicious and easy to prepare. In addition to grilling, consider no-cook meals like salads, sandwiches, and cold soups. These are refreshing and keep your kitchen cool. Equip your outdoor kitchen with grilling utensils, a cooler for keeping ingredients fresh, and a portable prep station for convenience. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, never leave the grill unattended, and ensure your grill is set up safely away from flammable materials.

Try a Smoker

Maybe you have a bit more time on your hands, and can prep something sooner in the day. The flavorful taste of freshly smoked meat is another option. There are several styles out there ranging from pellet to wood chip smokers. If you love rich, smoky flavors, consider investing in a smoker grill. Smoking your food not only enhances the taste but also offers a slow-cooking method perfect for tender meats.

What To Cook?

Combine your favorite proteins and vegetables on skewers, season, and grill for a quick and balanced meal. Wrap ingredients in foil packets and place them on the grill for simple cooking and easy cleanup. Try combinations like chicken with veggies or shrimp with potatoes and corn. Don't forget grilled desserts such as fruits, like peaches, pineapples, or bananas become sweet and smoky treats when grilled and served with ice cream or honey.

Affording A Grill

I totally understand that maybe some of you have never owned a grill before. Well, let me tell you first hand, it's not as big of a hassle as you think. The largest part of your investment is probably going to be the initial purchase. Secondhand grills are great, but if you're looking to use it a lot, then it's probably best to buy new. Don't have the money? Take a look at your credit cards. Opt for the one with the largest cash back rewards. And sometimes, depending on the time of year, your card may offer larger rewards at certain stores.

Wrapping It Up

Let's be honest, it's a scorcher out there and what better way to keep your home cool than cooking outside. Embrace outdoor cooking and enjoy the flavors of summer while keeping your home cool and energy bills in check. Fire up the grill or smoker and savor the season! Keep following us here at CreditSoup.com for more Frugal Friday tips on saving money at home.