June 28, 2025, 6:42 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Summer is here—and with it, the craving for light, fresh cuisine. On hot days, when you want to avoid turning on the stove or oven, the air fryer is your best bet. It’s quick, low-fat, and doesn’t generate much heat, providing exactly what our bodies need at 86 degrees Fahrenheit: healthy, balanced meals that are still filling—and most importantly, taste really good!
What I’ve noticed: Air fryer recipes must definitely be practical, healthy, and simple. When it’s warm outside, the motivation to spend extra time in the kitchen cooking elaborate meals is often lacking. Greasy sauces? No, thank you. Dishes that sit heavy in the stomach? Please, no! So here are my absolute three summer must-have recipes.
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Overview
Why Air Fryer Recipes Are Ideal for Summer
In summer, the body doesn’t need heavy cream sauces or greasy roasts – instead, fresh vegetables, plant-based proteins, vitamins, and healthy fats are in demand. This is where the air fryer shines: With little oil, it creates crispy yet light dishes without overheating the kitchen. Particularly interesting: Ingredients we usually eat cold (such as summer rolls or fruit) can be enhanced warm – for more flavor without compromise.
Also interesting: “I love my air fryer and these are my recipe recommendations”
Air Fryer Recipe: Zucchini Falafel with Mint Yogurt
When you want it crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, I reach for this air fryer recipe in the summer: Protein-rich and delicious, it’s perfect for a light meal. Chickpeas play the starring role – and for good reason: Like beans, peas, and lentils, they are legumes whose seeds mature in a pod. These pods are packed with nutrients: Chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc, calcium, and selenium – and they also contain secondary plant compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. A true multitasker!1
Ingredients (for 2 servings):
- 1 small zucchini, grated & squeezed
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 tbsp oats
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Cumin, parsley, salt, pepper
Preparation:
Process zucchini, chickpeas, garlic, oats, lemon juice, and spices into a dough in a blender. Shape the mixture into small balls, brush with a little oil, and place in the air fryer. Cook at 356°F for about 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown. Mix yogurt with chopped mint and lemon.Yogurt with chopped mint and lemon juice.
Secret tip: Serve with leafy greens and fresh watermelon – guaranteed to refresh you from the inside!
Summer Rolls from the Air Fryer
Yes, I know – it sounds crazy at first, but rice paper rolls can actually be eaten warm. In the air fryer, they can be enjoyed warm – for more flavor without compromise.
Especially clever: The combination of avocado, carrots, herbs, and tofu provides valuable nutrients that the body can use well on hot days. Avocado is full of unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E, carrots bring plenty of beta-carotene, and tofu offers plant-based protein and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc, calcium, and selenium – ideal for a nutritious and satisfying meal.2 – perfect for a mix of crunch and summer freshness.3
Ingredients (for 2 servings):
- 1 avocado
- 1 carrot
- 100 g tofu (optional: fried or plain)
- ¼ cucumber
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Preparation:
Cut carrot, cucumber, and avocado into thin strips. Soak rice paper briefly, fill with vegetables, herbs, and tofu, and roll tightly. Brush rolls with sesame oil and place in the air fryer. Cook at 356°F until golden brown. Mix lime juice and ginger for the dip.
Secret tip: Serve warm – with the dip, it tastes like street food from Southeast Asia!
My 3 Favorite Summer Recipes – Healthy and Refreshing from the Air Fryer
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Warm Pineapple with Coconut Yogurt
Yes, I know – it sounds crazy at first, but rice paper rolls can actually be eaten warm. In the air fryer, they can be enjoyed warm – for more flavor without compromise.
What many don’t know: Pineapple not only provides a good dose of vitamin C but also contains the enzyme bromelain, which aids digestion.4 The coconut yogurt used is usually lactose-free and contains – just like classic yogurt – beneficial probiotics. Mint has a cooling effect, and lime provides additional antioxidants.5
Ingredients (for 2 servings):
½ fresh pineapple, cut into wedges or cubes
1 pinch of cinnamon
2 tbsp coconut yogurt (or other yogurt)
Mint, chopped
A little lime juice
Preparation:
Coat pineapple pieces with cinnamon and place in the air fryer. Cook at 356°F until golden brown. Serve warm with coconut yogurt, mint, and a little lime juice.
Secret tip: Serve warm – it tastes almost like a healthy piña colada dessert – just without the alcohol and sugar!