Chef highlights 3 dishes to beat the summer heat

As heatwaves intensify, chef Caio Fontenelle suggests three light and refreshing dishes perfect for the hottest days of summer.According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, 2025 ranked as the third hottest year on record, after 2023 and 2024. With 2026 continuing the trend of extreme heat, temperatures surpassing 40 °C have become common, driving the demand for lighter and fresher meals that bring comfort without heaviness.

Mediterranean flavors for warm days

To match the season, chef Caio Fontenelle created three summer-perfect recipes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. “Paired with special seasonings and fresh ingredients, these dishes are both light and full of flavor, showing it’s possible to have the best of both worlds,” he notes.The Mediterranean salmon is grilled and served with Greek salad and yogurt dressing, delivering freshness and balanced acidity in every bite.For pasta lovers, the Sicilian capellini with shrimp features thin pasta tossed in creamy lemon sauce, topped with grilled shrimp — aromatic, light, and ideal for sunny days.

A refined and simple starter

The beef carpaccio with toasted mushrooms, Parmesan shavings, lemon emulsion, and honey mustard sauce rounds out the summer trio — an elegant, quick-to-prepare dish with a refreshing citrus touch.

“In summer, the goal is to eat in a way that satisfies hunger without discomfort. Citrus flavors and light sauces help maintain balance and pleasure,” says Fontenelle.

All three creations are available at Oliv Restaurante in Blumenau, Brazil — a place inspired by the coastal cuisines of Italy, Spain, France, Turkey, Greece, and Portugal, blending freshness and cultural richness.Photo: Divulgação