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Khichdi For Summer Dinner: With the summer at its peak, the bodies often crave something light, nourishing and easy to digest. Food experts and nutritionists always advise dinners to be light, easily digestible and satisfying. This applies to summer dinner, particularly. Nothing can be better than a comforting, warm bowl of khichdi, which is simple yet nourishing and has been a kitchen staple for generations. Khichdi is traditionally made with rice and lentils, which is gentle on the stomach but also versatile, making it a wholesome summer dinner option. This one-pot dish made with minimal spices is perfect for hot, lazy evenings when you don’t feel like spending too much time in the kitchen. Besides, being light, they keep the stomach full for a long time.

The wholesome khichdi recipes are perfect summer dinner, each offering a unique taste and texture to the classic dish. These dishes can be made with a seasonal twist, including fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and regional flavours. The soothing and nourishing khichdi is perfect for summer dinners. These khichdi recipes are not just easy to cook but also packed with nutrients to keep the body energised throughout the season. Here’s a list of six khichdi recipes that suit every palate and dietary needs.

Khichdi Dishes That Are Perfect For Summer Dinners

Moong Dal Khichdi

This khichdi is light, non-hearty and cooling and is perfect for summer dinners. Moong dal khichdi, as the name suggests, is made with moong dal, that is, green gram. It is rich in protein but gentle on the stomach. With less ghee and spices, it soothes digestion and keeps the body light.

Vegetable Khichdi

Made with summer vegetables like bottle gourd, carrots and peas, this khichdi is water-laden and nutrient-rich. The presence of fibre and vitamins from the vegetables helps in detoxification of the body and aids in digestion. It is a whole one-pot summer meal that maintains energy and prevents overheating.

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Lauki Khichdi

Laudi or bottle gourd has cooling properties and high water content. Adding this vegetable to khichdi makes the dinner meal light and nourishing, owing to its watery texture. Lauki khichdi helps cool down the body, promotes digestion and provides essential nutrition without adding to the calorie or fat values of the meal.

Khichdi For Summer Night Meals

Khichdi For Summer Night Meals (Image Credits: Canva)

Lemon Khichdi

As the name suggests, lemon khichdi is made of lemon and is refreshing and satisfying. Lemon soothes the stomach and provides vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that supports the immune system. It is tangy in flavour and is weightless, making it ideal for dinner that is light on the stomach.

Pongal

Also known as South Indian khichdi, Pongal is light, ghee-tempered and made with moong dal and rice for a warm blend. Spices like cumin and pepper added to Pongal promote digestion, making it a filling, comforting food for hot summer nights.

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Sattu Khichdi

Sattu or roasted gram flour contains protein and provides cooling effects to khichdi. It helps to stabilise body heat and supply long-lasting energy. Blended with rice and a few spices, this khichdi is perfect for individuals who want strength without any heaviness in hot, humid weather.