There aren’t many of us that haven’t heard someone reference the fact that the oven “heats up the house.” This is particularly true when RVing. The smaller the space, the less effort it takes to alter the temperature. This means that using the RV oven is an important consideration. The need to avoid oven use depends upon the situation at hand. Some have no problem using the energy necessary to cool the recreational vehicle after the oven heats it up. Others aren’t traveling in areas where it is a problem. But for those who are RVing in popular summer hot spots where the RV needs to be kept as cool and comfortable as possible, summer recipes for the road that don’t involve the use of the RV oven can be a very important.

Consider these recommendations for summer recipes while RVing:

Chips and salsa is a classic appetizer option. It’s popular, and easy. It also requires no cooking. Mix it up a little bit by throwing together a quick Avocado Salsa recipe.

Avocado Salsa:

1 bunch green onions, chopped

6 Roma Tomatoes, chopped

1 Avocado, chopped

1 Jar Green Chile Salsa

1 can El Pato

1 Tsp. Ground Cumin

1 Tsp. Oregano

¼ Tsp. Garlic Powder

-Salt to Taste

-Fresh Cilantro, to taste

Chop all the ingredients up and toss them in a bowl together. This salsa is an amazing snack that also offers the chance to have a lot of fresh, healthy ingredients. For an even healthier option, substitute Pita chips for the traditional tortilla chips for dipping.

When looking for a more filling meal, RVers can turn to something along the lines of this next recommended summer recipe. It avoids the use of the oven and turns instead to the crockpot which is an inexpensive addition to any RV that provides an alternative for enjoying a “home cooked” meal on the road.

Shredded Beef Sandwiches:

1 c. white vinegar

1 ½ t. salt

¾ t ground cloves

½ t. garlic powder

2 large onions cut up

3-6 bay leaves (optional)

1 roast

Put all ingredients in a crockpot and cook on low for 12 hours. Take out roast and shred with fork. Place the shredded beef on a bun and add lettuce. Strain the juices and use as a dip for the shredded beef sandwiches.

The RV is the most versatile mode of travel. For many, this versatility is simply due to the fact that the RV provides mobile accommodations, but the fact that these accommodations also come with the basic kitchen necessities drastically increases the versatility for the majority of travelers. Not only can access to the home cooked meals on the road greatly decrease the overall travel expenses, but it can also increase the traveler’s ability to access healthy, light meals while away from home. It’s a situation in which everyone benefits and everyone wins.