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Keep your cool with these 19 quick summer dinner ideas

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By Lisa MarcAurele

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Summer evenings call for quick and easy dinners that won’t heat up the kitchen. I’ve gathered a list of refreshing and simple recipes perfect for those warm nights when you want to keep things light and stress-free. These dishes are not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare, making them ideal for busy summer days.

Creamy Chicken Curry

Chicken curry with rice.
Creamy Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This quick and easy Creamy Chicken Curry is perfect for warm summer nights. The rich sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken. Ready in under 30 minutes, it won’t overheat your kitchen. Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal. A flavorful choice for those evenings when you want something comforting yet light.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

Korean Beef and Broccoli

Ground Beef and Broccoli stir-fry over rice.
Korean Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Korean Beef and Broccoli is a wonderful dish for warm summer evenings. The combination of tender beef and fresh broccoli is both satisfying and light. Cooks quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights. Serve with rice or noodles for a balanced meal. An easy and flavorful dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef and Broccoli

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

A grilled chicken thight with barbecue sauce and a side of green beans on a white plate, garnished with chopped parsley.
Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs are ideal for summer cookouts. The smoky BBQ flavor complements the juicy chicken perfectly. Quick to prepare and cook, they are a great option for a weeknight dinner. Pair with a side salad or grilled veggies. A simple and tasty way to enjoy the outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Roasted broccoli and tofu cubes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served with a wooden spoon.
Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Enjoy a light and refreshing Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry on hot summer days. This dish is quick to prepare and packed with vegetables. Perfect for a healthy and easy weeknight meal. Serve with rice or noodles. A great way to enjoy a nutritious dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs are perfect for a quick and easy summer dinner. The air fryer keeps the kitchen cool while cooking the chicken to crispy perfection. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a convenient option for busy evenings. Pair with a side of veggies or a salad. A hassle-free way to enjoy a flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

A bowl of meat and green peppers with a spoon.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a quick and tasty option for summer nights. The tender steak cooked in garlic butter is ready in just 15 minutes. A great way to enjoy a hearty meal without much effort. Serve with a side of vegetables or potatoes. A delicious and easy dinner choice.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a great choice for a light and flavorful summer dinner. The combination of shrimp and pasta is both quick and satisfying. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread. An easy way to enjoy a tasty meal without overheating the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Ground Pork Tacos

Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground Pork Tacos are a fun and quick meal for summer evenings. The seasoned pork pairs perfectly with fresh toppings. Ready in under 30 minutes, they are ideal for a busy weeknight. Serve with your favorite taco toppings and sides. A simple and flavorful dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

Alfredo Steak Pasta

Alfredo steak pasta in skillet with wooden spoon.
Alfredo Steak Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Alfredo Steak Pasta is a hearty and flavorful meal for summer dinners. The creamy Alfredo sauce and tender steak are a great combination. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy dinner option. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread. An enjoyable way to have a satisfying meal without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Macaroni Salad is a refreshing and light option for a summer dinner. The combination of shrimp and macaroni is perfect for warm evenings. Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for busy nights. Serve chilled with a side of fresh veggies. A cool and easy meal that’s perfect for hot days.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Scampi is a light and flavorful dish perfect for summer dinners. The combination of shrimp and garlic butter sauce is both quick and delicious. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s great for busy evenings. Serve with pasta or crusty bread. A simple way to enjoy a tasty meal without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Mexican Steak Pizza

Close-up of a cheesy Mexican steak pizza on a wooden spatula.
Mexican Steak Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mexican Steak Pizza is a fun and easy dinner for summer evenings. The spicy steak and fresh toppings create a flavorful meal. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve with a side salad or some salsa and chips. A tasty way to enjoy pizza with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers.
Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in the Air Fryer are perfect for a quick summer dinner. The air fryer keeps the kitchen cool while cooking the chicken to perfection. Ready in just 20 minutes, they are ideal for busy nights. Serve with a side of veggies or rice. A fun and easy way to enjoy a tasty meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Chicken Chop Suey

Stir-fried chicken chop suey in a skillet.
Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Chop Suey is a light and healthy option for summer dinners. The combination of chicken and fresh vegetables is both quick and delicious. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Serve with rice or noodles. An easy and nutritious dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it.
Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dinner for summer evenings. The balsamic sauce adds a rich flavor to the tender steak and mushrooms. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Serve with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes. An easy way to enjoy a hearty meal without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground Pork Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful meal for summer dinners. The combination of ground pork and fresh vegetables is both easy and delicious. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Serve with rice or noodles. An easy and satisfying dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Crab Pasta

A close-up of spaghetti twirled on a fork with bits of crab meat and herbs, with more pasta and a dish in the blurred background.
Crab Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab Pasta is a light and elegant choice for summer dinners. The fresh crab and pasta create a refreshing and quick meal. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s great for busy nights. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread. An easy way to enjoy a delicious meal without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta

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 perfect choice for summer cookouts. The smoky grilled shrimp are quick and easy to prepare. Ready in just 15 minutes, they are ideal for a busy evening. Serve with a side of veggies or rice. A simple and tasty meal that’s great for warm weather.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.
Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Beef Quesadillas are a quick and easy option for summer dinners. The cheesy beef filling is both flavorful and satisfying. Ready in under 20 minutes, they are perfect for busy nights. Serve with a side of salsa and guacamole. An easy way to enjoy a tasty meal without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

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