Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and a desire for lighter, fresher meals.
But when the temperature rises, the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove.
This collection of 25 easy summer recipes offers something for everyone – from fun and interactive meals for kids to delicious and healthy options for adults (that even picky eaters will devour!).
Light and Refreshing Salads
Caprese Salad Skewers:
Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers for a fun, finger-food take on the classic Caprese salad. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple yet flavorful dressing.
Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad:
This vibrant salad is bursting with summer flavors. Combine cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle with a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Cucumber Noodle Salad:
Using a spiralizer, turn cucumbers into healthy noodles. Toss them with chopped red onion, chopped bell pepper, and a light sesame dressing. Add protein like shredded chicken or tofu for a more filling option.
Pasta Salad Primavera:
Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. While it cools, combine chopped vegetables like cherry tomatoes, peas, corn, and chopped bell peppers. Toss with cooked pasta, a light vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad:
Marinate boneless, skinless chicken breasts in Italian dressing. Grill the chicken until cooked through, then slice it and add it to a bed of romaine lettuce. Top with croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a creamy Caesar dressing.
Quick and Easy Grill Masters
Grilled Veggie Burgers:
These vegetarian burgers are a crowd-pleaser. Mash together black beans, quinoa, corn, and your favorite spices. Form into patties and grill until slightly crispy on each side. Serve on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.
Grilled Kabobs:
Thread chunks of chicken, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Marinate in your favorite marinade (Italian, teriyaki, or simply olive oil and herbs) for at least 30 minutes. Grill until cooked through, turning occasionally.
Grilled Shrimp Fajitas:
Marinate large shrimp in fajita seasoning for at least 30 minutes. Grill for a few minutes per side until cooked through. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, shredded cheese, and your favorite fajita toppings.
Grilled Pizza:
Brush store-bought pizza dough with olive oil. Top with your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings. Grill the pizza over medium heat until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
There’s nothing quite like fresh summer corn on the cob. Simply peel back the husks, leaving a few layers intact. Soak the corn in water for 10 minutes. Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and golden brown. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper for an extra touch.
Cool and Creamy Treats
Homemade Popsicles:
Puree your favorite fruits like watermelon, mango, or berries. Add a splash of lime juice or honey for extra flavor. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for at least 6 hours.
No-Churn Ice Cream:
This recipe is a lifesaver on a hot day! Simply whip heavy cream, condensed milk, and your favorite flavorings (vanilla extract, cocoa powder, fruit puree) until stiff peaks form. Pour the mixture into a loaf pan and freeze for at least 6 hours.
Fruit Yogurt Parfait:
Layer granola, yogurt, and your favorite chopped fruits in a parfait glass. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Frozen Yogurt Bites:
Spoon dollops of Greek yogurt onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top with chopped fruit, granola, or sprinkles. Freeze for at least 2 hours.
Smoothies:
A quick and healthy way to beat the heat! Combine your favorite fruits, yogurt, milk, and a splash of honey or maple syrup in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Get creative with different flavor combinations!
Easy One-Pan Wonders
Sheet Pan Fajitas:
Toss sliced chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions with fajita seasoning and olive oil. Spread on a sheet pan and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, shredded cheese, and your favorite fajita toppings.
Salmon with Roasted Vegetables:
Place salmon fillets on a sheet pan. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (dill, rosemary, thyme). Surround the salmon with chopped vegetables like broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus. Drizzle everything with olive oil and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Chicken Sausage and Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner:
Toss sliced chicken sausage, chopped bell peppers, onions, and zucchini with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Spread on a sheet pan and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Serve with brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Sheet Pan Nachos:
Spread tortilla chips on a sheet pan. Top with shredded cheese, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapenos (optional). Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately with your favorite nacho toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Breakfast for Dinner:
Who says you can’t enjoy breakfast for dinner on a hot summer night? Scramble eggs with chopped vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Serve with sausage links, pancakes, or waffles.
Kid-Tested and Approved Fun
Ants on a Log:
Spread peanut butter or cream cheese in celery sticks. Top with raisins for a fun and healthy snack.
Pizza Bagels:
Spread pizza sauce on halved bagels. Top with shredded cheese and your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, vegetables). Toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Fruit and Yogurt Kabobs:
Thread chunks of fruit like strawberries, grapes, and melon onto skewers. Alternate with cubes of cheese for a protein boost. Serve with yogurt for dipping.
DIY Waffle Sundaes:
Make your favorite waffles or use pre-made waffles. Let the kids pile on their favorite toppings like ice cream, whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate sauce, and fruit.
Rainbow Veggie Wraps:
Spread hummus or cream cheese on whole wheat tortillas. Let the kids add their favorite colorful vegetables like shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and spinach. Roll up the tortillas and enjoy!
With these 25 easy summer recipes, you’re sure to find something delicious and satisfying for everyone at the table. So fire up the grill, preheat the oven, or grab a blender – it’s time to enjoy the flavors of summer!
