How to Make a No-Cook Appetizer Board Perfect for Easy Summer Dinners

When the summer heat gets too unbearable, the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove or oven. Instead, opt for an appetizer board for an easy, no-cook dinner. An appetizer board, especially one with a riot of textures, flavors and colors, can serve as a delightful (if unconventional) dinner. There'll be something for everyone to enjoy!

Before you can pile on the ingredients, you'll need a board. While you could keep it simple and use a cutting board, we love these gorgeous platters and boards below. Plus, don't forget the bowls you'll need to hold your various dips and spreads!

Arrange at least one item from each of the following categories to make a well rounded and tasty meal on a board.

Go simple with anything from rotisserie chicken to cheese and deli meats or up the ante with your best tinned fish, cooked shrimp or chickpeas tossed in vinaigrette. (We love this seasonal Basil Vinaigrette!)

Related: 3 Tips for Buying the Healthiest Canned Tuna and Salmon

Any crudités will do the trick—broccoli, green beans, radishes, carrots, celery—you get it.

You need a creamy dip (or two!) to swipe through. Try mustard, bean dip, hummus (like this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus), spreadable cheese, guacamole or even sour cream and onion dip.

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Try toasted bread slices, crackers, crispbreads or torn pita.

A pile of berries provides a bright contrast. Other options: dried fruit, chocolate or spiced nuts.

Related: Health Benefits of Blueberries

Throw on bold ingredients that'll pop, like olives, pickled vegetables, corn nuts, caper berries or marinated artichoke hearts.