As the temperatures rise, our taste buds crave refreshing and light dishes that can help us beat the heat. Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new flavors, ingredients, and textures that scream freshness! From classic salads to savory bowls, and even sweet treats, we’ve curated a list of 20 mouth-watering summer recipes that will make your taste buds dance.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a show-stopping dessert, these healthy and delicious recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With ingredients like juicy watermelon, creamy avocados, and zesty lemons, our list has something for everyone. So go ahead, grab a glass of ice-cold water, and dive into the world of refreshing summer recipes!
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of grilled lemon herb chicken, crisp greens, and tangy dressing for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup lemon vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breast in the marinade and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Chop grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese (if using), and chopped chicken.
7. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Avocado Summer Bowl
This refreshing Quinoa and Avocado Summer Bowl is a perfect side dish or light meal for warm weather. With the nutty flavor of quinoa, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies, this bowl is a flavorful and nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed summer vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced avocado, and mixed summer vegetables.
2. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the cooking time of quinoa)
Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a hint of fresh mint. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation only)
Chilled Cucumber Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this light and refreshing chilled gazpacho recipe, perfect for a summer evening or as a revitalizing snack. This Spanish-inspired soup is made with cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions, all blended together with a hint of garlic and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and seeded
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 large bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumbers, tomato, bell pepper, onion, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, then transfer to a large bowl.
3. Stir in olive oil to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This gazpacho is served chilled.
Berry Spinach Smoothie
Boost your day with a nutritious and delicious Berry Spinach Smoothie! This refreshing drink combines the sweetness of berries with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach, creating a perfect blend for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add the frozen berries, spinach, banana, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Greek yogurt and almond milk. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Grilled Shrimp and Mango Skewers
Elevate your summer BBQs with this sweet and savory recipe that combines succulent shrimp with juicy mango.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and ginger.
3. Add the shrimp and mango; toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread shrimp and mango onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Get ready to twist your pasta game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the best of summer – zucchinis and pesto!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your spiralizer (or a vegetable peeler) and create zucchini noodles.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the pesto and season with salt to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender but still slightly crisp.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Zucchini Noodles with Pesto!
Greek Yogurt Parfait with Fresh Berries
Start your day with a refreshing and healthy breakfast or snack by layering creamy Greek yogurt with sweet fresh berries. This simple parfait recipe is perfect for any time of year, using seasonal fruits to add natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 cup granola or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the Greek yogurt.
2. Add the fresh berries on top of the yogurt, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. If using, drizzle honey over the berries for added sweetness.
4. Sprinkle granola or chopped nuts over the berries for crunch (optional).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in just seconds!)
Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the sweetness of edamame, all wrapped up in a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 cup edamame, cooked and shelled
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Add the cooked edamame and soba noodles to the dressing. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time for soba noodles)
Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your avocado game with this creative twist on the classic Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato come together in a creamy, flavorful surprise.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Arrange a few cherry tomato halves on each avocado half.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil over the cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Chia Seed Pudding with Coconut Milk
Combine the nutritious benefits of chia seeds and coconut milk for a delicious and healthy treat. This pudding is perfect as a quick breakfast, snack, or post-workout recovery meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
2. If desired, add honey or maple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. After the chia seed pudding has chilled, give it a good stir to redistribute the chia seeds.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with your favorite toppings such as sliced fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa
Elevate your dinner game with this refreshing and flavorful combination of grilled salmon and citrusy salsa. Perfect for a light and summery meal!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together orange and grapefruit juices, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve grilled salmon with citrus salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer that combines the freshness of tomatoes and basil with crispy bread, this bruschetta is perfect for a quick snack or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1-inch thick slices and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush toasted bread with olive oil and top each slice with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Light and Creamy Mango Lassi
Beat the heat with this refreshing Indian-inspired drink, perfect for warm weather. This lassi recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of yogurt and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, low-fat or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mango, yogurt, milk, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ground cardamom and blend for another second or two, until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level to your liking.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the lassi over the ice.
6. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Enjoy your refreshing Light and Creamy Mango Lassi!
Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls
Bring the colors of the rainbow to your plate with these vibrant spring rolls filled with a medley of vegetables, perfect for a quick and healthy snack or appetizer. This recipe is also easily customizable to suit your favorite veggies!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup shredded zucchini
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface, with one corner pointing towards you.
3. Arrange about 1/4 cup of the veggie mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (fry until golden brown)
Herbed Farro Salad with Chickpeas
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty taste of farro with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a zesty herby package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions using water or broth. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add cooked farro to the bowl and stir until combined with the chickpea mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking farro)
Baked Sweet Potato with Black Beans
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, creating a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the sweet potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat the black beans in a pan over medium heat.
7. Once the sweet potatoes are done, slice them open and top with black beans, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, all tied together with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packs a flavorful punch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves.
2. Top with sliced strawberries and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette (mix equal parts balsamic vinegar and olive oil in a small bowl).
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts (if using) over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cold Beetroot and Orange Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for warm weather, with the sweetness of beets and oranges balanced by a tangy kick. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, chilled
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine beetroot, orange segments, and broth.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and cream (if using).
4. Chill soup in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve cold, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Chilling time: 30 minutes
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines sweet grilled peaches with peppery arugula, tangy goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine arugula leaves, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped pecans.
4. Arrange grilled peaches on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing and healthy recipes! From classic salads like Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Salad and Watermelon Feta Mint Salad, to cooling soups like Chilled Cucumber Gazpacho and Cold Beetroot and Orange Soup. Indulge in sweet treats like Berry Spinach Smoothie and Chia Seed Pudding with Coconut Milk. Savor the flavors of grilled favorites like Shrimp and Mango Skewers and Salmon with Citrus Salsa, or enjoy light and creamy options like Greek Yogurt Parfait with Fresh Berries. These recipes are sure to keep you feeling cool and refreshed all summer long!