Plus, recipes from Misfits Market to keep you cool
When temperatures soar, staying hydrated isn’t just about drinking water—it’s also about eating the right foods. At Misfits Market, we believe food should work harder for you: nourishing your body, exciting your palate, and even helping you cool down.
That’s why we’re highlighting some of the most hydrating, refreshing foods to keep on hand during a heatwave—plus some of our favorite Misfits Market recipes to make them shine.
Keep reading: Fruits and Veggies That Taste Better at Room Temperature
Cucumbers: Nature’s Water Bottles
With a water content of over 95%, cucumbers are one of the most hydrating veggies around. Crisp, cooling, and perfect raw or pickled, they’re also high in potassium and antioxidants—ideal for replenishing what the heat zaps from your system.
Try this: Cucumber Celery Slushie
This chilled beverage is herbaceous, sweet, and refreshing enough to bring your internal temp down by a few degrees.
Watermelon: Juicy, Sweet, and 90% Water
It’s no surprise this summer staple makes the list. Watermelon is packed with water and natural sugars to help keep energy up when the heat drains you.
Try this: Tomato-Watermelon Gazpacho
A chilled summer classic that takes five minutes to make and is endlessly refreshing.
Leafy Greens: Sneaky Hydrators
Think romaine, spinach, and butter lettuce—these greens are not only fiber-rich, but also surprisingly water-dense.
Try this: Veggie-Filled Green Goddess Sandwich
This sando is loaded with hydrating greens, fresh herbs, and a cooling dressing.
Berries: Bite-Sized Bursts of Hydration
Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries—all of them offer hydration, fiber, and antioxidants in one juicy little package.
Try this: Strawberry Yogurt Bites
Make it ahead and keep it in the freezer for a cold (and chocolatey) snack when you need a fruity cool-down. (Keep reading for 8 more frozen desserts perfect for summer.)
Tomatoes: More Than Just Sauce
Tomatoes are about 94% water, making them perfect for both snacking and cooling summer dishes.
Try this: Easy Tomato Vinaigrette
Full of summery tomato flavor, perfect for topping cool salads.
Citrus: Zesty and Refreshing
Lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits all add brightness to dishes while helping replenish vitamin C and electrolytes.
Try this: Easy Lemon Pudding
This light and zippy dessert is great served cold—and customizable no matter what citrus you’re working with.
Pro Tip: Pair with Cold Dishes and Ice-Box Meals
Sometimes the best way to beat the heat is to stay far away from your stove. Think smoothies, salads, chilled soups, and anything that lets your fridge do the heavy lifting.
Try this: No-Cook Tomato Sauce
Full of summery tomato flavor, no heat required.
Should You Eat Spicy Food in a Heatwave?
Surprisingly—yes! Spicy food might make you sweat, but that’s exactly the point. In many hot climates around the world (think India, Thailand, Mexico), spicy dishes are the norm. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chiles their kick, triggers your body’s natural cooling system: sweat. As it evaporates, it helps bring your body temperature down.
That said, spicy food isn’t for everyone—especially in extreme heat or if you’re already dehydrated. If you’re craving a little heat, pair it with high-water-content foods and plenty of hydration.
Try this: Chili Crisp Noodles
A little spicy, a lot refreshing—these cold noodles bring bold flavor without turning up the kitchen heat.