15 summer dishes you need to try

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Get ready to spice up your summer meals! This list of 15 must-try dishes brings something new and exciting to the table. From cool and refreshing to bold and hearty, these dishes are perfect for those long, sunny days. Whether you want something quick to whip up or a dish to impress your friends at a cookout, these options cover all bases. Summer just got a lot more delicious and fun.

Metal baking pan with elote, Mexican grilled corn cobs with mayonnaise, spices, and cheese.
Elote. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cucumber Kimchi

Cucumber kimchi on a white plate with a pair of chopsticks lifting a slice of cucumber.
Cucumber Kimchi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Kimchi fans will appreciate a twist with crisp, cool cucumbers. Ideal for hot days, this version of Cucumber Kimchi packs a punch without being overwhelming. It pairs well with almost any grilled entrée, adding a fresh crunch. Perfect for your next summer barbecue, it’s sure to impress. The cucumbers soak up the spices, making every bite burst with flavor. Enjoy a new take on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Kimchi

Kachumber Salad

Kachumber salad in a white bowl with fancy silver spoons on the side.
Kachumber Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Fresh and vibrant, this Kachumber Salad brings together a mix of textures and flavors. Its refreshing nature makes it a great addition to your summer meal lineup. It’s light yet satisfying and complements grilled meats or stands alone as a refreshing snack. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a real treat. This salad is quick to prepare, making it perfect for any summer gathering. A truly refreshing dish for those warm days.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber Salad

Incredibly Easy Tomato Soup

A pot of tomato soup with a ladle.
Incredibly Easy Tomato Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Great for any meal, Incredibly Easy Tomato Soup is perfect for summer. Enjoy a bowl whether it’s hot or cool outside as it’s pleasantly light. The rich flavor comes from ripe tomatoes, lending a depth you’ll love. It can be served chilled or warm, making it versatile for any weather. Pair it with a crisp salad or a sandwich for a complete meal. Easy to whip up, this soup is perfect for those moments when simplicity hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Incredibly Easy Tomato Soup

Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Low angle shot of vietnamese summer rolls with edible flowers.
Vietnamese Summer Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Light and refreshing, Vietnamese Summer Rolls are perfect for a hot day. These rolls pack a mix of textures and flavors that are truly enjoyable. Ideal for a refreshing meal or snack, they are great for quick lunches or casual dinners. Pair them with a delicious sauce for the best experience. Their ease of preparation makes them a favorite. A burst of freshness in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Zucchini fries on a plate with spicy ketchup for dipping.
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a healthier take on fries, try Air Fryer Zucchini Fries. They offer a satisfying crunch with every bite and are a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a side dish, they don’t lose their charm. Easy to make, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat. A guilt-free fry experience that everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Green Chili Chicken Soup

Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.
Green Chili Chicken Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for something hearty, Green Chili Chicken Soup delivers. This dish offers just the right amount of spice and warmth, making it enjoyable year-round. The robust flavors blend well, leading to a bowl full of comfort. Just the solution for cool summer nights when you need something filling. Pair it with crispy bread or a salad for a complete meal. It’s a flavor-packed option you’ll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Green Chili Chicken Soup

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Overhead shot of spicy cucumber salad in a black bowl with a fancy serving spoon on the side.
Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cool and invigorating, Spicy Cucumber Salad brings a bit of heat to your table. It’s a wonderful side dish or snack for those who enjoy a little spice. Easy to make, it’s an excellent choice for days when you want something quick and refreshing. Its crisp texture contrasts nicely with the spiciness. A versatile salad that fits well with a variety of main dishes. Expect a memorable experience with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Corn and Tomato Chowder

a bowl of corn and tomato soup with fresh basil.
Corn and Tomato Chowder. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Those who love hearty soups will appreciate Corn and Tomato Chowder. Offering a balance of sweetness from the corn and the rich taste of tomatoes, it’s perfect for any summer meal. Enjoy it as a main dish or a delicious starter. Pair it with a salad for a flavorful combination. Ideal for those days when you want something warm but not too heavy. A bowl of comfort you’ll surely enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Corn and Tomato Chowder

Triple Berry Hand Pies

Closeup of a broken open triple berry hand pie.
Triple Berry Hand Pies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with Triple Berry Hand Pies. These little treats are packed with juicy berries and perfect for a summer dessert. Easy to grab and go, they’re ideal for picnics or outdoor events. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent experience. With their flavorful filling and flaky crust, they’re sure to be a favorite. A portable dessert that’s both fun and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Triple Berry Hand Pies

Japanese Cucumber Salad

A black bowl of Japanese cucumber salad garnished with sesame seeds.
Japanese Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Perfect for hot days, Japanese Cucumber Salad offers a refreshing crispness. The simplicity of this dish makes it an excellent addition to any summer table. It’s light but still interesting enough to hold its own as a great appetizer or side. The cucumbers are thinly sliced and mixed with a tangy dressing, providing a flavorful crunch. Quick to prepare and even quicker to enjoy, it’s a go-to for busy summer nights.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cucumber Salad

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites

Bowl of jalapeno popper bites.
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice lovers will find Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites irresistible. These poppers have a crunchy exterior and a creamy, spicy inside that makes them perfect for an exciting appetizer. Great for sharing at parties or enjoying at home, they’re easy to prepare and hard to stop eating. The air fryer gives them a fantastic texture without excess oil. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick. A fun and spicy treat that adds excitement to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites

Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican corn salad in bowls, garnished with parmesan cheese and lime wedges, with forks on the side.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a twist on traditional sides, try Mexican Corn Salad. This dish is full of flavors that complement grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. The corn provides a sweet crunch, balanced by other ingredients that add both texture and taste. It’s quick to make and a hit at any gathering, adding variety to your summer menu. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, whatever suits your preference. A colorful, flavorful dish everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Mini Blueberry Pies

Mini blueberry pies in tins.
Mini Blueberry Pies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a fun and easy dessert, Mini Blueberry Pies hit the spot. These little bites are packed with juicy blueberries, offering a sweet treat for any occasion. Perfectly sized for individual servings, they’re ideal for parties or barbecues. You’ll love how simple they are to make, and they disappear quickly once served. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream for an extra bit of fun. A summertime favorite everyone will adore.
Get the Recipe: Mini Blueberry Pies

Elote

Metal baking pan with elote, Mexican grilled corn cobs with mayonnaise, spices, and cheese.
Elote. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Street food lovers, try Elote as a new addition to your summer menu. This grilled corn dish is covered with various flavors that make it irresistible. A favorite among many, it’s perfect for barbecues or casual get-togethers. Enjoy it straight off the grill for the best experience. Easy to make and even easier to eat, this dish is always a hit. Summer gatherings aren’t complete without it.
Get the Recipe: Elote

Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Hand dipping a fried pickle into dipping sauce with a platter of fried pickle slices.
Air Fryer Fried Pickles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crunchy and tangy, Air Fryer Fried Pickles make for a fun and unique snack. These pickles are easy to prepare and come out perfectly crisp. They’re great for casual get-togethers or as an appetizer for any meal. The air fryer makes them healthier without sacrificing taste. Pair them with a dipping sauce for added flavor. A crowd-pleasing option that adds a twist to traditional fried snacks.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Pickles

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