As summer unfolds, many people are seizing the opportunity to escape their daily routines. Whether heading to the beach, mountains, or a new city, the choice often involves renting a vacation home with a kitchen that may be less than familiar. Cooking in such spaces can be a challenge, but it also presents a unique opportunity to embrace creativity and simplicity in meal preparation.
When stepping into a rental property, the absence of familiar cooking tools can be daunting. You might find yourself wondering where to store your groceries or how to create a meal that meets your usual standards. Instead of succumbing to frustration, consider a more relaxed approach to cooking. For instance, if you come across an abundance of cherry tomatoes at a local farmstand, a cherry tomato antipasti salad can be a delightful and easy option. This dish can include canned artichoke hearts, olives, onions, and a quick vinaigrette, with the addition of cubed provolone or diced salami for extra flavor.
Before your trip, preparing a “kitchen survival kit” can make a significant difference. Essential items may include a sharp knife, cutting board, salt, pepper, and pantry staples that you know you’ll need. For example, packing olive oil, vinegar, lemons, and some favorite herbs can provide a solid foundation for various dishes. Having zipper-top bags and small containers handy will also help with storing leftovers or taking food on the go.
Maximize Ingredients with Versatile Dishes
Consider meals that allow for ingredient flexibility. A big grain salad made with rice, quinoa, or couscous can be endlessly customized and served cold or at room temperature—ideal for a picnic by the lake or a casual meal in the backyard. Focus on stovetop recipes, as rental kitchens may have unreliable ovens. A simple pasta dish sautéed with garlic and olive oil can be a winning choice, especially when topped with red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan.
Grilling is another option that vacation cooks can capitalize on, provided there is sufficient fuel available. Grilled chicken breasts or New York Strip steaks can serve as a hearty dinner, and cooking extra portions means you’ll have leftovers for sandwiches, quesadillas, or salads. Even leftover grilled corn can transition into a corn soup, chowder, or stir-fry ingredient.
Salads are another versatile option, enabling improvisation with farmers market ingredients. For a refreshing summer dish, try a melon and cucumber salad with feta and lime juice, or a chopped vegetable salad enhanced with protein-rich chickpeas.
Embrace Creativity and Local Ingredients
As your vacation comes to an end, it’s time to get inventive with any remaining ingredients. That half jar of pickles can add a briny kick to potato salad, while leftover cheese and spinach can be mixed into scrambled eggs or a frittata. The key is to cook what feels manageable and to use local produce that allows for more time spent enjoying your surroundings.
Cooking in a vacation rental kitchen may come with its quirks. You might find yourself slicing vegetables with a steak knife or discovering a bit of sand in your pasta salad after a day at the beach. Embracing these imperfections can lead to some of the most memorable meals. A past experience of creating a delightful dinner from fresh scallops, pasta, olive oil, and margarita mix from twenty years ago remains a cherished memory.
Smoothies also offer a great alternative for breakfast or snacks during your stay. A basic smoothie template can include various fruits, yogurt, and sweeteners. If you plan ahead, freezing fruits beforehand can yield a thicker texture, or you can simply add ice. Fresh mint can also enhance the flavor profile.
As you prepare for your next getaway, remember that cooking in a vacation rental doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few essential tools and an open mind, you can create delicious meals that are both simple and satisfying, making your trip all the more enjoyable.
