17 effortless summer dishes that your family will devour

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Think about those lazy summer evenings or lively weekend gatherings, where you want to serve something that appeals to both kids and adults. This selection of 17 ideal summer dishes is tailored to be crowd-pleasers without requiring complex cooking skills or obscure tools. These recipes provide a great way to keep meals light, healthy, and appealing, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy and no one is spending too much time cooking.

Grilled pork chops with pineapple salsa on a white plate.
Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa. Photo credit: Grill what You Love.

Tomato Bruschetta

Tomato Bruschetta on a platter.
Tomato Bruschetta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re after something that truly says summer, look no further. Bursting with fresh flavors, tomato bruschetta is easy to whip up and ideal for those warm evenings you don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. It’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering, keeping everyone reaching for more. It’s that go-to quick fix that beautifully begins any meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta

Tomatillo Pico de Gallo

Tomatillo pico de gallo in a black dish surrounded by tortilla chips.
Tomatillo Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fresh and lively, this dish offers a quick way to add a punch of flavor to your meals. Tomatillo Pico de Gallo is your answer to what goes perfectly with your chips or grilled dishes. Simple to prepare, its freshness compliments just about any summer dish, making it a versatile addition to your meal plans. Such an easy, refreshing choice can quickly become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tomatillo Pico de Gallo

Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble in cast iron with vanilla ice cream on top.
Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a sweet end to your summer meals, Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble never disappoints. It combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, topped with a crumble that crisps up beautifully. No summer gathering is complete without a dessert that gets everyone talking, and this is one that’ll do just that. Plus, it’s hassle-free to make, which means more time to enjoy those long summer evenings.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa in a black pan with tortilla chips in a second pan.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring a little excitement to the table with roasted tomatillo salsa, a recipe that packs a flavorful punch. Its preparation is as straightforward as it gets, but the result is anything but simple in taste. Roested Tomatillo Salsa is perfect for those who love a blend of roasted goodness in their condiments. Absolutely a summer staple, it’s a game-changer for meals needing that extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Herbed potato salad on a white platter.
Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine a side dish that brings the freshness of the garden right onto your plate. Potato salad with herbs & green garlic is just that—a refreshing take on a classic favorite. This version mixes in an array of herbs and green garlic to elevate the humble potato into a flavorful concoction. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any summer meal, especially when you’re craving something light yet fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Corn on the cob with garlic parmesan on a black plate.
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who knew that corn could be this exciting? Parmesan garlic corn ribs are here to change your summer barbecue game. With minimal prep, these become a must-have at any outdoor cookout, bringing together flavors that everyone, from kids to adults, will love. It’s a side dish that often steals the show, proving that simple ingredients can indeed create something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

German Yellow Beans

A bowl of German yellow beans on a wooden table.
German Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When summer hits, you’ll want dishes that keep things light and easy. German yellow beans are exactly that—a side dish that’s both uncomplicated and utterly satisfying. This classic recipe lets the natural flavors of the beans shine, making it a refreshing addition to any summer meal. Plus, it’s so straightforward; it leaves you plenty of time to enjoy the sunny outdoors.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan

A plate of roasted kohlrabi with parmesan cheese on a wooden table.
Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever wanted to try something different but didn’t know where to start? Roasted kohlrabi with Parmesan might just be your next favorite. This dish brings out the best of kohlrabi, making it tender and flavorful with a cheese-induced crispiness that’s hard to resist. It’s a fantastic way to introduce a new vegetable to your table in a way that’s both easy and incredibly tasty.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Yellow Beans

Lemon pepper yellow beans on a black plate with lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Seeking a crispy, flavorful side that’s both quick and easy? Air fryer lemon pepper yellow beans come to the rescue. Using just your air fryer, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, proving that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s the perfect way to enjoy your veggies, offering a tempting crunch that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Yellow Beans

Pineapple Salsa

Pineapple salsa in a skillet with tortilla chips.
Pineapple Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Why not add a tropical twist to your next dish with pineapple salsa? This sweet and tangy Pineapple Salsa is a breeze to put together and pairs wonderfully with just about everything—be it grilled meats or a bowl of chips. It’s that burst of sunshine on your plate, making each bite an exciting mix of flavors. A surefire way to bring a bit of the exotic into your regular summer spread.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Salsa

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

A bowl of yellow bean and potato salad.
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a combination that’s bound to delight—yellow bean and potato salad. TYello Bean & Potato Salad takes the classic potato salad and infuses it with the crunchiness of yellow beans, creating a textural sensation. It’s a refreshing take on a beloved classic, proving that sometimes, a small twist can bring about a whole new level of enjoyment. Trust this to become a new staple at your summer feasts.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

Smoked New York Strip Roast

A piece of smoked New York strip roast meat on a cutting board next to a knife.
Smoked New York Strip Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re aiming to impress at your next summer gathering, Smoked New York strip roast has got you covered. This main dish is straightforward, letting the rich flavors of the meat shine through without needing a plethora of seasonings. It’s for those days you want something special without the intricate fuss, leaving everyone around the table more than satisfied. The simplicity in preparation belies the complexity in taste, making it a memorable part of any meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip Roast

Pickled Yellow Beans

Pickled yellow beans in a jar on a wooden table.
Pickled Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine a side dish that brings a dash of zing to your meals. Pickled yellow beans are just the thing for those who love a bit of tang alongside their main dishes. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these beans add a refreshing contrast to any plate. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying a family meal, they’re a delightful addition you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Yellow Beans

Montreal Smoked Meat Hash

A white plate with Montreal smoked meat hash on it.
Montreal Smoked Meat Hash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Breakfast or brunch doesn’t get much better than with Montreal Smoked Meat Hash. This hearty dish brings comfort and flavor in spades, making it a great start to any summer day. It’s not only filling but also packs a punch that wakes up all your senses. Perfect for those mornings when you need something robust to kickstart a day of activities.
Get the Recipe: Montreal Smoked Meat Hash

Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled pork chops with pineapple salsa on a white plate.
Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa. Photo credit: Grill what You Love.

Mix up your grill game with grilled pork chops accompanied by pineapple salsa. This pairing strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, providing a tropical flair to your usual barbecue lineup. It’s an effortless way to elevate your grilling with a recipe that’s as delicious as it is simple to make. Get ready for it to be the highlight of your next outdoor meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Ukrainian Potatoes

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Ukrainian Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dig into the world of comforting classics with Ukrainian potatoes. This dish is all about bringing simple ingredients together in a way that feels both heartwarming and utterly delicious. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds you of home, offering a satisfying experience with every spoonful. Whether as a side or a main, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Three pieces of grilled cauliflower steaks on a black plate.
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a veggie-centric dish that impresses both in taste and presentation, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks are the answer. They turn a humble vegetable into a standout dish that even meat lovers can appreciate. With edges that crisp up perfectly on the grill and a hearty texture, it’s a fulfilling plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This dish is a testament to the power of simple cooking and fresh ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

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