Seasonal eating doesn’t have to be complicated. It just means paying attention to what sounds, feels, and tastes good right now. As the weather starts to move from spring into summer, that’s usually lighter meals with more crunch, more acid, and zero interest in turning on the oven. Why stay in the kitchen if you can grill outside on a sunny day? Try these 13 recipes and see which of them feels and tastes right for you.
Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of our grilled chicken satay with peanut sauce. Tender chicken skewers are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy, homemade peanut sauce that’s rich, nutty, and absolutely addictive.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Asian Marinated Steak
Asian Marinated Steak features a marinade of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil that delivers bold, savory flavors. This steak turns out juicy and tender, making it a standout choice for grilling. It’s a delicious option that brings a touch of Asia to the BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Asian Marinated Steak
Veggie Pasta Salad
Savor the taste of summer with this mayo-free pasta salad. This refreshing and light salad combines al dente pasta with fresh veggies like corn and tomatoes, plus tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing for a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a satisfying side dish.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pasta Salad
Grilled Baby Bok Choy
Bok choy is such a fun vegetable, but it is definitley underused. It’s absolutely delicious when you toss it on the grill for just a few minutes after mixing it with an easy Asian marinade. It pairs well with anything from burgers to chicken and more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Baby Bok Choy
Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken
Experience the zesty and tangy flavors of slow cooker tomato lime chicken, a succulent dish that combines juicy chicken with vibrant tomato and lime accents. Let the slow cooker do the work for you, creating tender and flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with your favorite side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken
Tomato Quinoa Salad
Tomato quinoa salad combines protein-rich quinoa with juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, creating a refreshing and hearty side dish. Its light yet satisfying texture adds a nutritious element to your barbecue spread. This salad is an excellent choice for a wholesome addition to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Quinoa Salad
Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Juicy, golden-brown chicken rests on a bed of tender orzo, soaking up the flavors of garlic, lemon, and Mediterranean herbs. A splash of olive oil adds richness, while a sprinkle of crumbled feta gives a salty, creamy contrast. The orzo cooks in the same pan, absorbing all the savory juices for a dish that’s fresh yet deeply satisfying. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Lemon-Marinated Kefir Chicken
Prepare to delight your senses with our lemon marinated kefir chicken. Succulent chicken pieces are bathed in a tangy and refreshing marinade featuring the zingy flavors of lemon and the creamy tang of kefir, resulting in tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful chicken that will leave you craving more.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Marinated Kefir Chicken
Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites
This fun and easy appetizer is heaven on an English muffin. The cheesy, boozy mixture is the perfect marriage, and they’re so quick and easy to make, too.
Get the Recipe: Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites
Elotes (aka Mexican Street Corn)
Mexican street corn is delicious and traditionally sold on the cob from street carts. Make your own version at home with this simple recipe using frozen corn!
Get the Recipe: Elotes (aka Mexican Street Corn)
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
A single pan, big flavors, and nourishing ingredients—this dish blends fluffy quinoa, beans, and colorful veggies with a spicy kick. Salsa adds zest, while corn and peppers lend a natural sweetness. A protein-packed meal that’s both hearty and vibrant.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Grilled chicken foil packets offer a convenient and tasty way to prepare a meal with minimal cleanup. Combining chicken, vegetables, and rice in a foil packet allows for easy grilling and infuses everything with rich flavors. This method makes serving dinner a breeze and ensures a satisfying dish for your cookout.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
Ratatouille with an Italian flair combines fresh vegetables and herbs into a hearty and flavorful side dish. This vibrant mix adds a colorful and delicious element to your cookout. It will bring a taste of Italy and a memorable touch to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair