Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh and easy recipes that make the most of the season’s ingredients. We’ve compiled 29 of our favorite summer recipes that are quick to prepare and packed with flavor. From light salads to grilled dishes, these recipes are ideal for warm-weather meals. Enjoy these simple and delicious dishes that will keep you satisfied all summer long.
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Grilled chicken kofta kebab is a quick and flavorful dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. Made with ground chicken, spices, and herbs, it offers a savory and slightly spicy taste. The kebabs are perfect for summer grilling and pair well with fresh salads or pita bread. Enjoy the rich flavors of this Middle Eastern-inspired recipe.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Grilled Scallops with Lemon, Mint, and Pinot Grigio Sauce
Grilled scallops with lemon, mint, and Pinot Grigio sauce is a light and zesty dish ready in just 20 minutes. The main ingredients are fresh scallops, lemon, mint, and white wine, creating a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor. Perfect for summer evenings, this dish is best enjoyed with a side of grilled vegetables or a crisp salad. The sauce adds a delightful touch of elegance to the scallops.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Scallops with Lemon, Mint, and Pinot Grigio Sauce
Fried Marinated Tofu
Fried marinated tofu is a delicious and protein-packed dish that takes around 30 minutes to make. The tofu is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, giving it a savory and slightly tangy taste. This versatile recipe can be enjoyed as a main course or added to salads and stir-fries. It’s a great option for a quick and nutritious summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu
Pepita Salsa Macha
Pepita salsa macha is a bold and spicy condiment that can be prepared in just 10 minutes. Made with pepitas (pumpkin seeds), dried chiles, and garlic, it offers a rich and smoky flavor. This versatile salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or even as a dip for chips. Enjoy the robust taste of this unique Mexican-inspired salsa.
Get the Recipe: Pepita Salsa Macha
Goat Cheese Salad
Goat cheese salad is a fresh and tangy dish that takes only 15 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients include mixed greens, creamy goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette dressing. This salad is perfect for summer, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Serve it as a light lunch or a side dish to complement any meal.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Salad
Easy Garlic Scape Pesto Pizza
Easy garlic scape pesto
Get the Recipe: Easy Garlic Scape Pesto Pizza
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Greek vegetarian moussaka is a hearty and flavorful dish that takes about 1 hour to prepare. Made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce, it offers a satisfying and savory taste. This vegetarian version of the classic Greek dish is perfect for summer dinners. Enjoy it with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Lebanese Baba Ganoush
Lebanese baba ganoush is a creamy and smoky dip that takes around 30 minutes to make. The main ingredients are roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic, creating a rich and flavorful spread. This dip is perfect for summer parties, served with pita bread or fresh vegetables. Enjoy the authentic taste of this Middle Eastern favorite.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Smoky baba ghanoush without tahini is a delicious and creamy dip ready in about 30 minutes. Made with roasted eggplant, olive oil, and garlic, it offers a smoky and rich flavor. This version is perfect for those who prefer a tahini-free option. Serve it with pita bread or fresh veggies for a tasty summer appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Sauteed Swiss Rainbow Chard
Sauteed Swiss rainbow chard is a quick and nutritious dish that takes about 15 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are fresh Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil, creating a simple and tasty side dish. This recipe is perfect for summer meals, offering a vibrant and healthy addition to your plate. Enjoy it with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Swiss Rainbow Chard
Homemade Labneh Cheese Balls
Homemade labneh cheese balls are a creamy and tangy treat that takes around 20 minutes to prepare, plus chilling time. Made with strained yogurt, herbs, and spices, these cheese balls offer a rich and flavorful taste. They are perfect for summer entertaining, served with crackers or fresh bread. Enjoy the Mediterranean flavors of this easy-to-make appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Labneh Cheese Balls
Creamy Broccoli Stems Soup
Creamy broccoli stems soup is a nutritious and comforting dish that takes about 40 minutes to make. The main ingredients are broccoli stems, potatoes, and vegetable broth, creating a smooth and savory soup. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover broccoli stems and enjoying a healthy meal. Serve it with a crunchy salad topper for added texture.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli Stems Soup
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
Sheet pan paprika chicken and veggies is a quick and easy dish ready in about 45 minutes. The main ingredients are chicken thighs, bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with paprika and olive oil. This one-pan meal offers a savory and slightly smoky taste, perfect for summer dinners. Enjoy it with a side of rice or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
Beet Latkes with Poached Egg
Beet latkes with poached egg is a colorful and flavorful dish that takes around 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are grated beets, eggs, and dill, creating a unique twist on traditional latkes. This recipe is perfect for summer brunches, offering a savory and slightly sweet taste. Serve it with a dollop of crème fraîche for added richness.
Get the Recipe: Beet Latkes with Poached Egg
Black Sesame Sourdough Buns
Black sesame sourdough buns are a delicious and unique bread option that takes about 4 hours to make, including rising time. The main ingredients are sourdough starter, black sesame seeds, and flour, creating a slightly nutty and tangy flavor. These buns are perfect for summer barbecues, enjoyed with burgers or as a side. The black sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Sourdough Buns
Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa
Black bean tacos with sweet pepper salsa is a quick and tasty dish ready in about 20 minutes. The main ingredients are black beans, sweet peppers, and corn tortillas, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. These tacos are perfect for summer nights, offering a combination of savory and slightly sweet tastes. Enjoy them with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa
Salmon Salad with Bagel
Salmon salad with bagel is a fresh and hearty dish that takes about 15 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are smoked salmon, cream cheese, and mixed greens, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. This salad is perfect for summer lunches, offering a balance of savory and creamy flavors. Serve it with a toasted bagel for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad with Bagel
Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad
Moroccan pearl couscous salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish that takes around 30 minutes to make. The main ingredients are pearl couscous, chickpeas, and fresh vegetables, creating a vibrant and satisfying salad. This recipe is perfect for summer picnics, offering a mix of savory and slightly tangy tastes. Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad
Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema
Peach salmon skewers with peach jalapeno crema is a delightful and vibrant dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are fresh salmon, peaches, and a creamy jalapeno sauce, creating a sweet and spicy flavor combination. These skewers are perfect for summer grilling, offering a unique twist on traditional seafood dishes. Enjoy them with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema
Spicy Tofu Tacos
Spicy tofu tacos are a quick and flavorful dish ready in about 20 minutes. The main ingredients are marinated tofu, corn tortillas, and a spicy sauce, creating a savory and slightly spicy taste. These tacos are perfect for summer meals, offering a plant-based option that’s both satisfying and delicious. Serve them with fresh salsa and avocado for added flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tofu Tacos
Fresh Pico De Gallo
Fresh pico de gallo is a simple and zesty condiment that takes only 10 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, creating a fresh and tangy salsa. This recipe is perfect for summer, offering a versatile topping for tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip for chips. Enjoy the bright and refreshing flavors of this classic Mexican salsa.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Pico De Gallo
Roasted Eggplant Soup
Roasted eggplant soup is a rich and flavorful dish that takes about 1 hour to make. The main ingredients are roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and garlic, creating a smooth and savory soup. This recipe is perfect for summer evenings, offering a comforting and healthy meal. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Eggplant Soup
No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake
No-bake chocolate pistachio cake is a decadent and easy dessert that takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus chilling time. The main ingredients are chocolate, pistachios, and biscuits, creating a rich and nutty flavor. This cake is perfect for summer, offering a sweet treat without the need for an oven. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake
Tropical Overnight Oats
Tropical overnight oats is a nutritious and refreshing breakfast that takes just 10 minutes to prepare, plus overnight chilling. The main ingredients are oats, coconut milk, and tropical fruits, creating a creamy and fruity flavor. This recipe is perfect for summer mornings, offering a quick and healthy start to your day. Enjoy it cold for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Tropical Overnight Oats
Eggplant Grilled Cheese with Green Hot Sauce
Eggplant grilled cheese with green hot sauce is a unique and flavorful sandwich that takes about 20 minutes to make. The main ingredients are eggplant, cheese, and a spicy green sauce, creating a savory and slightly spicy taste. This recipe is perfect for summer lunches, offering a delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese. Serve it with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Grilled Cheese with Green Hot Sauce
Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce
Classic white fish in white wine sauce is a light and elegant dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are white fish fillets, white wine, and lemon, creating a delicate and flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for summer dinners, offering a sophisticated yet simple meal. Enjoy it with a side of steamed vegetables or rice.
Get the Recipe: Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce
Spicy Homemade Green Hot Sauce
Spicy homemade green hot sauce is a bold and zesty condiment that takes about 15 minutes to make. The main ingredients are green chiles, garlic, and cilantro, creating a spicy and tangy flavor. This sauce is perfect for adding a kick to your summer dishes, from tacos to grilled meats. Enjoy the vibrant taste of this homemade hot sauce.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Homemade Green Hot Sauce
Baked Brie with Peaches, Pecans, Herbs, and Honey
Baked brie with peaches, pecans, herbs, and honey is a delightful and elegant appetizer that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are brie cheese, fresh peaches, and pecans, creating a sweet and savory flavor combination. This recipe is perfect for summer entertaining, offering a sophisticated yet simple dish. Serve it with crackers or fresh bread for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie with Peaches, Pecans, Herbs, and Honey
Indian-Style Okra Curry (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Indian-style okra curry, also known as bhindi masala gravy, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients are fresh okra, tomatoes, and a blend of Indian spices, creating a rich and savory curry. This recipe is perfect for summer meals, offering a delicious and vegetarian option. Enjoy it with rice or naan for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Indian-Style Okra Curry (Bhindi Masala Gravy)