During the summer months, the temperatures in Japan can soar well into the nineties, with heavy humidity making it feel even hotter. When you consider the sometimes-scorching summertime weather, it makes sense that so many of the best Japanese dishes for summer feature refreshing, cool, and light ingredients. Whether you consider yourself a Japanese cuisine connoisseur or are simply interested in broadening your mealtime horizons, summertime Japanese dishes offer a plethora of new flavors to savor.

From soba noodles to cold sake, here are some of the most delicious Japanese dishes and beverages you’ll want to enjoy this summer:

Zaru Udon

Udon noodles are a famous Japanese dish, but zaru udon takes the classic concept and turns it into a summer-friendly dish. The chilled noodles are typically served alongside a soy-based dipping sauce, letting the diner control the preferred distribution of flavors. Udon noodles are soft, thick, and have a neutral flavor that makes them an excellent complementary ingredient in a variety of dishes.

Sushi Rolls

Perhaps one of the most obvious Japanese dishes to enjoy during the summer, sushi rolls combine fresh, premium seafood with an array of other ingredients for a flavor-packed, bite-sized treat. Every piece of a well-made sushi roll is a symphony of flavors, and there’s no shortage of fresh varieties that are perfectly suited for summertime. Try a classic California roll or switch things up with rolls that incorporate seasonal produce like avocado and asparagus – there’s virtually no end to the creativity of talented sushi chefs.

Zaru Soba

Zaru soba, often simply referred to as chilled soba noodles, is another classic Japanese noodle dish adapted for the warm summer temperatures. Often made with buckwheat flour and served with tsuyu dipping sauce, zaru soba is a light but satisfying entrée that’s perfect for both lunch and dinner. Many Japanese restaurants serve zaru soba with shrimp and vegetable tempura, adding even more flavor and texture to this delicious meal.

Mochi Ice Cream

Ice cream is the unofficial dessert of summer, and Japanese mochi ice cream proves that this unspoken tradition isn’t limited by geographical boundaries. This cool Japanese dessert combines sticky mochi rice with creamy ice cream for a unique, delicious sweet treat offered in an array of flavors. The most popular varieties of mochi ice cream feature fruit-inspired flavors, with options to satisfy nearly any palate.

Perfect Pairing Beverage for Summer: Cold Sake

Warm sake may be a long-held Japanese tradition, but enjoying this favorite beverage chilled is a must during the heat of summer. There are a variety of sakes to enjoy, each one offering a one-of-a-kind flavor profile and distinct aroma. Many sake lovers take great pleasure in the experience of sampling new sakes, and ordering a bottle to share with the table can be a wonderful way to enjoy an authentic Japanese-style meal with friends or family.

Matsuhisa: Serving Unparalleled Japanese Cuisine for Every Season

If you’re searching for a welcoming, upscale restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Japanese flavors without traveling across the globe, look no further than Matsuhisa. With three locations in Colorado (Denver, Vail, and Aspen, and several international restaurants – not to mention Chef Nobu’s original restaurant in Beverly Hills – Matsuhisa has become well-known for our distinct new-style Japanese cuisine, contemporary spaces, and impeccable service. Here, you can enjoy the best Japanese food for summer and beyond, discovering new flavors and ingredients through the culinary creativity of Chef Nobu.

Make the most of your summertime dining and reserve your table at the Matsuhisa in your area today.

Image Credit: 7grwb