As the sun shines bright on the longest day of the year, we’re celebrating the start of summer with a delicious lineup of refreshing recipes. From light and zesty salads to sweet treats that highlight the season’s freshest flavors, these 20 mouthwatering dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your next cookout or dinner party. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a backyard BBQ or a quick and easy snack to enjoy on-the-go, we’ve got you covered with our collection of summer solstice recipes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best of what summer has to offer, from juicy stone fruits to crisp greens and creamy cheeses. With flavors that are as bright and bold as the sun itself, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. So go ahead, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the taste of summer!
Strawberry and Mint Summer Solstice Salad
Celebrate the warmth of summer with this refreshing salad that combines sweet strawberries, cooling mint, and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, and chopped mint leaves.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss gently.
3. Add the crumbled feta cheese (if using) and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Squeeze the balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss again.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Grilled Peach and Burrata Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of grilled peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach wedges with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices by grilling for 30 seconds per side or baking in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and place on toasted baguette slices.
5. Top each slice with a grilled peach wedge and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Lavade Shortbread Cookies
These tender shortbread cookies are infused with the warmth of lavender and the brightness of lemon, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in lemon juice and lavender buds.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Watermelon Feta Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
A refreshing twist on traditional appetizers, these sweet and savory skewers are perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large watermelon, diced into 1-inch cubes
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate threading watermelon and feta cubes onto skewers.
3. Brush skewers with olive oil.
4. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until watermelon is slightly caramelized.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over skewers during the last minute of grilling.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sunshine Mango Avocado Salsa
Brighten up your snack time with this vibrant and delicious salsa! A perfect blend of tropical flavors, this recipe combines the sweetness of mango, the creaminess of avocado, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Berry and Yogurt Parfait with Honey Drizzle
A refreshing and healthy dessert that combines sweet berries, creamy yogurt, and a touch of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola or crushed cookies (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the berries and set aside.
2. Spoon the yogurt into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top the yogurt with the mixed berries.
4. Drizzle the honey over the berries in a zig-zag pattern.
5. If desired, sprinkle granola or crushed cookies over the top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes.
Grilled Corn and Tomato Summer Salad
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this refreshing salad featuring grilled corn and juicy tomatoes. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled corn, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Citrus-Marinated Shrimp Skewers
Brighten up your seafood dishes with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, perfect for a light and zesty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange and grapefruit juices, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the tops with olive oil. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh citrus wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Cold Cucumber and Dill Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing and light cold soup perfect for hot summer days. This recipe combines the cooling flavors of cucumber, dill, and yogurt to create a delightful and easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumber, dill, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Chill soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This cold soup is ready in no time.
Serve: Chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Pineapple Coconut Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a tropical twist! This refreshing Pineapple Coconut Smoothie Bowl is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a boost of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup coconut yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: sliced fresh pineapple, toasted coconut flakes, and granola
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pineapple chunks, coconut yogurt, unsweetened shredded coconut, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth, adding ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with sliced fresh pineapple, toasted coconut flakes, and granola.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Savor the flavors of summer with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines sweet bell peppers with creamy goat cheese, fragrant herbs, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summer Solstice Lemonade with Basil
As the longest day of the year approaches, refresh your taste buds with this delightful and herbaceous lemonade infused with the essence of basil. Perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or serving at an outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in no time.
Grilled Zucchini and Eggplant Stack
Elevate your summer meals with this colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable stack. This recipe showcases the best of zucchini, eggplant, and red onion, perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 large red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice zucchinis and eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, whisk together garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the vegetable slices with olive oil and season with garlic mixture.
5. Grill vegetables in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. To assemble the stack, place a zucchini slice on a plate, followed by an eggplant slice, then a red onion ring.
7. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a zucchini top.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blueberry and Lemon Ricotta Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the freshness of lemon with the natural sweetness of blueberries, all wrapped up in a creamy ricotta filling. Perfect for a springtime dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 cups fresh blueberries
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
4. Arrange blueberries in an even layer over the ricotta mixture.
5. Fold the edges of the pie crust up over the filling to form a crust.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato Basil Bruschetta with Balsamic
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple and flavorful recipe for Tomato Basil Bruschetta with Balsamic. Toasted baguette slices are topped with a mixture of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and mozzarella cheese, then finished with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Top toasted baguette slices with tomato-basil mixture, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over bruschetta and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chilled Melon and Prosciutto Bites
A refreshing and elegant appetizer or snack, perfect for warm weather gatherings. Thin slices of prosciutto wrap around sweet melon balls, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe melons (such as cantaloupe or honeydew), cubed
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the melon into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Wrap each melon ball with a slice of prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the prosciutto-wrapped melon bites on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and refreshing combination of grilled salmon and tangy citrus salsa verde. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Citrus Salsa Verde ingredients:
+ 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture evenly onto salmon fillets.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine citrus salsa verde ingredients in a separate bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Serve grilled salmon with citrus salsa verde spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars
A classic combination of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, topped with a crunchy oat crumble, makes for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh rhubarb, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb. Mix in granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Arrange the fruit mixture in the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the fruit layer.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fresh Herb and Edible Flower Salad
This salad is a vibrant and flavorful celebration of the garden’s bounty, featuring a mix of fresh herbs and edible flowers that are both beautiful and delicious. With its delicate flavors and textures, this dish is perfect for springtime gatherings or as a light and refreshing side.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (such as basil, mint, cilantro, parsley)
– 1 cup edible flowers (such as violas, pansies, nasturtiums)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh herbs and edible flowers.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the white wine vinegar and gently toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional edible flowers if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Peach and Raspberry Galette
This sweet galette is perfect for warm weather gatherings, featuring the sweetness of peaches and the tartness of raspberries. With a flaky crust and a delightful filling, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange peach slices and raspberries in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle granulated sugar and vanilla extract over the fruit.
5. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush confectioners’ sugar over the crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these refreshing summer solstice recipes! From light and fruity salads like Strawberry and Mint Summer Solstice Salad and Watermelon Feta Skewers with Balsamic Glaze, to sweet treats like Lemon Lavade Shortbread Cookies and Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at grilled dishes like Grilled Peach and Burrata Crostini or Citrus-Marinated Shrimp Skewers, or cool off with chilled soups like Cold Cucumber and Dill Soup. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to bring a taste of sunshine to your summer gatherings!