A compilation of recipes focused on foods served chilled or at room temperature, this type of culinary resource typically includes salads, appetizers, dips, spreads, and no-cook desserts. Examples might range from a classic Greek salad to a complex terrine, or from a simple fruit platter to an elaborate chilled soup. Such resources often categorize recipes by ingredient, occasion, or culinary tradition.
Collections of these recipes provide valuable resources for entertaining, warm-weather cooking, or situations where minimal cooking equipment is available. Historically, the preservation and consumption of foods without heat have played a crucial role in various cultures, leading to diverse and sophisticated cold cuisine traditions. These culinary guides preserve and transmit this knowledge, contributing to a broader understanding of food history and global culinary practices. They can also offer convenient meal solutions for busy lifestyles and promote healthier eating habits by emphasizing fresh, unprocessed ingredients.