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21 easy recipes to make your summer a lot more chill

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By Lisa MarcAurele

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Summer is the perfect time to keep things simple and relaxed, and that’s exactly what these easy recipes offer. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just looking for quick meal ideas, these dishes are designed to make your summer a lot more chill. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll be able to enjoy your downtime without spending hours in the kitchen.

A fresh strawberry lemonade served on a wooden coaster, garnished with a whole strawberry, with lemons and strawberries in the background.
Strawberry Lemonade. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Coconut Shake

Two coconut milkshakes topped with whipped cream, served in tall glasses with colorful straws, on a wooden table.
Coconut Shake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Coconut Shake is the ultimate cool-down drink for hot summer days. This creamy treat is quick to blend and perfect for a refreshing break. Its tropical flavor makes it a go-to choice for those lazy afternoons when you want to chill. Enjoy a frosty sip without any fuss or lengthy prep time.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Shake

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli salad with bacon bits on a white oval plate, accompanied by a wooden serving spoon on a linen napkin.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a fantastic addition to any summer meal. It combines crisp vegetables with a smoky touch from bacon, making it a flavorful and easy choice for side dishes. Perfect for potlucks or a simple lunch that doesn’t require much cooking.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Marshmallow Fruit Salad with Cool Whip.
Marshmallow Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Marshmallow Fruit Salad is a sweet and simple dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. With a blend of fresh fruits and fluffy marshmallows, it’s a treat that doesn’t take much time to prepare. This salad is a great way to cool down and enjoy the season’s best fruits.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Easy Radish Salad

A plate of radish salad with diced celery and a creamy dressing, accompanied by a glass of water and salt and pepper shakers.
Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Easy Radish Salad offers a crisp and refreshing option that’s a breeze to whip up. The sharp flavor of radishes combined with simple ingredients makes it a go-to side for any summer meal. It’s light, flavorful, and requires minimal effort—ideal for those hot days.
Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

Pineapple Banana Smoothie

A close-up of a pineapple banana smoothie in a glass with a straw, surrounded by a white napkin with pineapple and banana in the background.
Pineapple Banana Smoothie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pineapple Banana Smoothie is a tropical escape in a glass that’s easy to make and enjoy. This smoothie blends the sweetness of pineapple with creamy banana for a refreshing drink. It’s perfect for a quick, cooling treat during those hot summer days.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Banana Smoothie

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand holding a tortilla chip dipped in creamy Buffalo chicken dip, garnished with slices of green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Buffalo Chicken Dip delivers a bold flavor that’s easy to prepare and perfect for summer get-togethers. This creamy dip pairs well with chips or veggies and is a great option for casual snacking. It’s a crowd-pleaser that won’t add extra stress to your summer menu.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Seafood Pasta Salad

Close-up of a spoon holding seafood pasta salad garnished with parsley, with more salad in the background.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Seafood Pasta Salad combines fresh seafood with pasta for a light and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for summer picnics or casual dinners and doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s a great way to enjoy a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Red Skin Potato Salad

Bowl of potato salad garnished with fresh herbs and bacon on a white background.
Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Red Skin Potato Salad is a classic side that’s perfect for summer. With its creamy dressing and tender potatoes, it’s a simple dish that complements any barbecue or picnic. It’s easy to make ahead and always a hit at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans tossed with cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, accompanied by a fork, on a white surface.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green Bean Tomato Salad is a fresh and easy choice that brightens up any summer meal. The crisp green beans and juicy tomatoes create a light yet flavorful salad that requires minimal prep. It’s a great side dish for hot days when you want something quick and refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Strawberry Lemonade

A refreshing glass of strawberry lemonade on a wooden coaster, surrounded by fresh strawberries and lemons, on a light-textured surface.
Strawberry Lemonade. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Strawberry Lemonade is a refreshing drink that’s both easy to make and enjoy. The combination of strawberries and lemons provides a sweet and tangy flavor perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. It’s a simple and satisfying way to stay refreshed.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lemonade

Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino

Vanilla bean Frappuccino drinks on a wood cutting board.
Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino is a homemade version of a beloved treat that’s perfect for summer. This creamy drink is easy to blend and provides a sweet, cooling break from the heat. Enjoy this refreshing beverage any time you need a quick, satisfying pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino

Broccoli Slaw Salad

A plate of colorful broccoli slaw with shredded purple cabbage and carrots topped with dried cranberries and pine nuts, next to a red-checked napkin.
Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Slaw Salad is a crunchy and light option that’s perfect for summer meals. With a mix of fresh broccoli and a tangy dressing, it’s an easy-to-make side that pairs well with any main course. It’s a great choice for adding some crispness to your summer dining.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

Starbucks Copycat Iced Americano

A glass of iced coffee with a straw, next to a coffee press and a beige napkin, on a light background.
Starbucks Copycat Iced Americano. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Starbucks Copycat Iced Americano offers a quick and refreshing coffee fix that’s easy to prepare at home. This drink provides a bold coffee flavor with a chill twist, perfect for hot days when you need a cool caffeine boost. It’s a simple way to enjoy a café-style beverage without leaving the house.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Copycat Iced Americano

Avocado Spinach Smoothie

Two tall glasses of avocado spinach smoothie.
Avocado Spinach Smoothie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Avocado Spinach Smoothie is a healthy and easy-to-make option for cooling off. The creamy avocado and fresh spinach create a smooth and refreshing drink that’s packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a light snack on a warm day.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Spinach Smoothie

Iced Sweet Blackberry Tea

A glass mason jar filled with a red berry drink and topped with blackberries, accompanied by a small bowl of blackberries and a striped napkin on a white surface.
Iced Sweet Blackberry Tea. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Iced Sweet Blackberry Tea is a refreshing and simple drink that’s perfect for summer. The sweet blackberry flavor combined with chilled tea makes it a great option for cooling down on a hot day. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Iced Sweet Blackberry Tea

Frozen Yogurt with Berries

A frozen yogurt cup with blueberries and a strawberry slice on top, placed on a white plate. A red and white checkered cloth is visible in the background.
Frozen Yogurt with Berries. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Frozen Yogurt with Berries is a cool and simple treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. This easy dessert combines the tang of yogurt with fresh berries for a refreshing finish to any meal. It’s quick to make and great for a light, healthy snack.
Get the Recipe: Frozen Yogurt with Berries

No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of no-churn vanilla ice cream in a glass jar, with a waffle cone and a wooden spoon in the background on a white tablecloth.
No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream is an effortless dessert that doesn’t require an ice cream maker. This creamy treat is perfect for cooling down and is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite summer toppings for a sweet treat.
Get the Recipe: No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

A salad with strawberries, blueberries and feta cheese.
Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing is a fresh and vibrant option that’s ideal for summer meals. The mix of berries with a homemade blueberry dressing makes it a flavorful and easy-to-prepare dish. It’s a great choice for adding some color and sweetness to your table.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a simple and delicious option for summer grilling. These skewers cook quickly and are packed with flavor, making them perfect for a casual outdoor meal. They’re easy to prepare and ideal for keeping your summer dinners relaxed and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Red White and Blue Salad

A bowl of creamy berry salad topped with fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries. A gold spoon is placed beside the bowl, and there is a small dish of blueberries in the background.
Red White and Blue Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Red White and Blue Salad is a festive and easy option for summer gatherings. This vibrant salad combines fresh ingredients to create a colorful and light dish that’s perfect for any celebration. It’s simple to prepare and adds a festive touch to your summer menu.
Get the Recipe: Red White and Blue Salad

Strawberry Spinach Smoothie

Side view of spinach strawberry smoothie in glass.
Strawberry Spinach Smoothie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Strawberry Spinach Smoothie is a refreshing drink that’s both easy to make and enjoy. The blend of sweet strawberries with nutrient-rich spinach creates a satisfying and cooling treat. Ideal for a quick breakfast or a light snack during the warm weather.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Spinach Smoothie

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