I agree with the 'cold salad' idea for all the reasons already mentioned.. Here are a few of my favorites for you to consider
Broccoli pasta salad - you can never go wrong with anything bacon!
https://spicysouthernkitchen.com/bro...d-pasta-salad/
Cranberry almond broccoli salad (a family favorite)
https://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/cra...vefyre-ratings
Spicy Cilantro Slaw - this has a very distinct (but I think good) flavor if you want something a bit different
http://kalynsprintablerecipes.blogsp...anut-slaw.html
Anything in the Crock pot is a good alternative too
I'm getting hungry!