I've spent years testing and collecting my favorite Staub and Le Creuset pieces, but I recently discovered that there are many more cast iron cookware uses, that extend well beyond the stovetop. No, I won’t be reaching for the best cast iron cookware to cook with this summer – it’s far too hot to be standing over the stove. But, instead of gathering dust in my cupboards, these pots and pans are taking center stage as the cooling stars of my table decorations for 4th of July.
But it's not just aesthetic – there's a scientific reason for trying this hack, too: high-quality cast iron retains cold just as well as it holds heat. That means your favorite Dutch oven or braiser can double as an elegant ice bucket, oyster platter, or even a chilled punch bowl.
These alternative cast iron cookware uses will not only elevate your summer table decor ideas but also help you repurpose your expensive cookware – saving money and space without sacrificing on style. I've even found some early 4th of July deals, if you're looking to add to your cookware collection, too.
5 alternative cast iron cookware uses for summer
1. Switch your drinks cooler for a cocotte
One of my favorite alternative cast iron cookware uses in summer is to turn a Dutch oven into an unexpectedly chic ice bucket. For the best results, start by chilling your Dutch oven in the refrigerator or freezer (if you have space) for a few hours – enameled cast iron holds cold just as beautifully as it retains heat. Just before your event, fill it with ice cubes, leaving enough room to nestle in your beverage bottles or cans.
I recommend opting for the largest size you have. My 7.5 quart oval cocotte from Staub, offers plenty of space for ice and bottles, and can even roast a turkey in the winter.
2. Use a griddle as a fruit platter
Most people think of their griddle only for searing, but thanks to cast iron's ability to retains cold too, it is ideal for serving a fresh fruit salad on, keeping your fruit juicy and cool on a hot day.
To prepare, simply place your griddle in the refrigerator, freezer, or an ice bath for least an hour before serving. Once thoroughly chilled, arrange your fruit directly onto the plate (try red berries, blueberries, and sliced honeydew melon for 4th of July colors). For extra refined presentation, you could layer in edible flowers, fresh mint, or a few citrus rounds.
3. Use your cast iron for ice cream
Staub's mini cocottes might be one of the most delightful ways to serve ice cream recipes – and they do more than just look sweet. Thanks to their enameled cast iron construction, they help to keep scoops firm and slow down the melting effectively.
To prep, chill your cocottes in the freezer for at least an hour before serving. When you're ready, scoop your ice cream directly into the cold dishes and finish with your frozen toppings. Note that Le Creuset's mini round cocottes are equally adorable, but they are made from stoneware, not cast iron, so you won't get quite the same cooling effect.
If you have the freezer space, you could put your homemade ice cream into a larger cocotte to freeze, then take it straight to the table when you're ready to serve.
4. Keep oysters cool with cast iron
When it comes to serving oysters, presentation and temperature are everything – and cast iron delivers on both. A pre-chilled cast iron surface, like a griddle plate or cocotte makes a stunning and practical piece of serveware.
To prepare, place your cookware in the freezer for at least an hour. Fill with ice crystals or granita, then return to the freezer until ready to serve. Finally, nestle the oysters and a few lemon wedges into the crushed ice to help stabilize them. Again, you could garnish with edible flowers for a touch of elegance.
5. Create a cast iron bowl
First, make sure your Dutch oven is nice and clean. Then, just like for the other alternative cast iron uses, pop it in an ice bath, freezer or refrigerator for a couple of hours to chill. When you're ready to serve, fill it with ice cubes and punch. I suggest using flavored ice cubes (perhaps citrus slices frozen in juice) or even cubes made from the same drink you’re serving, to avoid dilution.
To help retain the chill, pop the lid on between pours, and if you're setting it directly on a table, be sure to place it on a tray or trivet (I like these natural fibre placemats from Amazon) to catch any condensation
My favorite cast iron pieces
I've found the perfect pots at some great prices in the early 4th of July sales. Here are my picks in patriotic red, white, and blue.
This glossy red pot from Staub will be the cherry on top of the 4th of July table. Fill it with homemade punch, then provide a ladle so that your guests can serve themselves. Come Autumn and winter, this pot can be used for warming cassoulets, chillis, and more.
This trio of cocottes are ideal for baking small desserts, French-style eggs, and of course, serving scoops of summer ice cream. Get creative with your flavors, either matching the shade of your cookware or choosing a bold, bright sorbet to contrast with a neutral shade.
A real workhorse, suitable for everything from slow-cooking meat to storing ice. Despite its cast iron construction, this oven is relatively light and easy to lift, with ergonomic knobs and handles. It comes in a huge range of colors, from rich reds and blues to natural, neutral shades.
I hope these five cast iron cookware uses have refreshed your inspiration for any upcoming summer celebrations. If you're looking for more summer-themed hacks, we recently discovered this crucial tip for how to store watermelon, so you can enjoy the sweet, juicy fruit at its best for longer.
