Every summer, I find myself thrilled at the prospect of seasonal dishes, only to backtrack when my kitchen turns into a sauna. After a long day, the last thing I want is to hover over a hot stove or oven.
This year, I'm taking the initiative to beat the heat with a portable induction cooktop, like the Nuwave Induction Cooktop from Amazon, along with the best induction cookware. This way, I can prepare healthy meals without turning my kitchen into a steam room.
Induction cooking heats the pan directly instead of warming the surrounding air, making it not only more energy-efficient but also safer and cost-effective over time. You can even set it up outside to literally keep the heat out of your kitchen—just grab an extension cord. Here's why this portable upgrade is ideal for summer cooking.

Available in both a single and double induction stovetop, this precise portable cooking surface is NSF-certified, meaning it won't crack, break, or shatter. With user-friendly digital controls and temperature settings from 100°F to 575°F, it's perfect for preparing meals at home during summer.
Keeping your kitchen cool can be quite challenging. Most traditional kitchen appliances are designed to generate heat, which can quickly make the space feel unbearable, especially during the hottest months.
By opting for an induction cooktop instead of a standard electric stove or oven, you minimize the excess heat released into the kitchen. Induction cooking employs electromagnetism to heat your best non-toxic cookware directly, preventing unnecessary warmth from filling the room. The efficiency of this method allows you to touch the surface shortly after cooking without the risk of burns.
Since a full kitchen remodel isn't feasible for me, a portable solution like the Nuwave Induction Cooktop is an excellent alternative. With temperature adjustments ranging from 100°F to 575°F in 5°F increments, it accommodates everything from gently warming sauces to searing steak, all without raising the kitchen temperature. This helps me stay cool and avoid any summer hosting blunders.
Being up to 80% more efficient than conventional gas or electric cooking, this cooktop can also lower energy bills, allowing for more budget flexibility when it comes to summer gatherings. It's a fantastic upgrade, even for a compact kitchen like mine—I can't believe I didn't think of this smart addition sooner.
Essential Items for Summer Cooking
To help you prepare for cooking in the heat, I've put together a collection of summer kitchen essentials that will have you ready when the temperatures soar.
All prices are accurate at the time of publication.
1800 watts
If you're looking for something larger, this double induction stove is perfect for doubling your cooking area while remaining portable for easy off-season storage or outdoor use.
Best induction pans
A favorite of Gordon Ramsay, our expert Lydia Hayman used the induction-safe HexClad pans during her time as a recipe editor to test and shoot various recipes, from sizzling steaks to perfectly seared seafood. The non-stick quality truly lives up to the hype.
Protects cookware
To safeguard your induction-safe pans and seasoned cast-iron skillets, consider using food-grade silicone utensils, which help prevent scratches and maintain non-stick surfaces.
The best fan
This Shark FlexBreeze fan, available as a corded or cordless option and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, delivers impressive airflow and unique features that make it a top choice for keeping cool in the kitchen while cooking in the heat.
Check out our full review of the Shark FlexBreeze for more details.
Avoid the oven
The Typhur Sync is precise, professional, and PFAS-free, complete with a temperature probe for perfectly cooked meats and crispy fries. Its speed, spaciousness, and safety features make it an ideal choice when you want to steer clear of the oven during the summer heat.
Keep guests cool
This Ninja SLUSHi Machine allows you to enjoy frozen drinks and slushies at home without needing ice. Its exclusive RapidChill Technology® ensures perfect frozen beverages every time, making it a fantastic option for smaller households or occasional hosts. It comes in several colors, including 'Stone & Gold', 'Arctic Blue and Gray', and 'Soft Sage'.
To protect your cookware and ensure delicious meals, familiarize yourself with the most common induction hob mistakes before you begin using your new appliance.