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Beat the Heat with 43 Easy & Delicious Summer Recipes!

The sun is shining, the days are long, and the temperature is soaring! It’s officially summer, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill, dust off your picnic basket, and whip up some delicious seasonal treats. But who says hot weather has to mean hot kitchens? This collection of 43 easy and flavorful recipes is here to keep you cool and satisfied all summer long. From refreshing salads and light bites to sizzling grilled mains and sweet frozen desserts, we’ve got something for every craving and every occasion.

Summer Appetizers

Thai Chicken Salad Wontons

Wow, these Thai Chicken Salad Wontons are like a flavor party in your mouth! You’ve got the tender chicken, the nice crunch from the veggies, and that sweet and tangy dressing – all wrapped up in these crispy little wonton cups. Perfect for summer, they’re light, refreshing, and bursting with those delicious Thai flavors we all love on a hot day. Plus, they’re bite-sized, which makes them ideal for finger food at summer parties or picnics. And let’s not forget the colorful ingredients – they’ll brighten up any table!

Classic Italian bruschetta

Classic Bruschetta

This bruschetta recipe is my go-to for summer get-togethers. It’s super easy: toasted baguette slices piled high with a mix of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hit of garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a nice tangy touch.

The best part? It’s light and refreshing, perfect for hot summer nights. Everyone loves it, and it comes together in no time!

Crispy Fish Cakes with Chipotle Aioli

Crispy Fish Cakes with Chipotle Aioli

This recipe for savory risotto cakes with tuna sounds amazing! It’s like the perfect summer dish – you’ve got the light and refreshing seafood from the tuna balanced out by that creamy, comforting risotto. It’s filling but not too heavy,just what you want on a hot day. And the chipotle aioli? Genius! That smoky, spicy kick takes it to the next level. This would be a total crowd-pleaser at a summer get-together or a fun twist for an outdoor dinner. Gotta try it!

Cheesy Pesto Pull Apart Bread

Cheesy Pesto Pull Apart Bread

This is my go-to recipe for summer parties! It’s always a hit because it’s so easy to share and everyone loves it. The melted cheese gets all gooey and mixes with the fragrant pesto – seriously delicious. It’s perfect as a starter or a side dish,and goes great with a glass of wine or a cold beer on a warm summer night.

5 Minute Chimichurri Sauce...Super Easy

5 Minute Chimichurri Sauce…Super Easy

This chimichurri sauce is a lifesaver for summer grilling! It’s so easy to make in just 5 minutes, and the flavors are amazing. It’s got this bright, herbal taste with a bit of a tang, which is perfect for grilled meats, seafood, or even veggies. Basically, it makes everything you cook on the grill taste even better – a must-try for any summer cookout!

Easy Spicy Garlic Shrimp (4 of 4)

Easy Spicy Garlic Shrimp

These spicy garlic shrimp are a summer must-have! They’re perfect for quick and easy dinners on busy weeknights, or as a flavorful appetizer at your next backyard BBQ. With just a few ingredients and a hot pan, you can have delicious shrimp bursting with flavor in no time – leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy those long summer evenings.

Soy and Lime Spicy Grilled Shrimp

Soy and Lime Spicy Grilled Shrimp

Hey grill masters! This soy and lime spicy shrimp recipe is my new go-to for summer. It’s crazy easy and whips up in no time. Plus, the flavors are insane! The tangy lime cuts through the savory soy sauce, and the kick of spice makes these shrimp perfect for any cookout. And let’s face it, grilling keeps the kitchen cool so you can enjoy the sunshine!

Honey Lime Grilled Shrimp6

Easy Grilling…Honey Lime Grilled Shrimp

This honey lime shrimp recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any summer get-together. The sweet and tangy marinade makes the shrimp taste amazing! The honey gives it a caramelized glaze that’s to-die-for, while the lime keeps things bright and citrusy. Grilling adds a smoky layer that makes every bite delectable. Trust me, these shrimp will disappear fast!

Macerated Summer Berry Salad

Macerated Summer Berry Salad

Calling all berry lovers! This fruity salad is bursting with ripe, juicy berries that have been marinating in a light syrup. Fresh mint and a splash of citrus add a touch of magic. It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer’s bounty in a simple yet elegant way. Super refreshing and perfect for a hot day, the vibrant colors and flavors will have you coming back for more.

Avocado and Feta Salad. Girl and the Kitchen

Feta and Avocado Salad

This salad is a summer showstopper! Creamy avocado, tangy feta cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers come together in a light vinaigrette. It’s refreshing, flavorful, and uses all the best summer produce. The creamy avocado and tangy feta add a delicious richness, while the crisp vegetables and bright vinaigrette keep things feeling light and fresh.

Classic Russian Salad

Classic Russian Salad… Pу̏скӣ Салат

This traditional Russian salad, also known as Olivier salad, is a crowd-pleaser! It’s a colorful mix of diced potatoes, carrots, peas, and crunchy pickles all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Hearty and satisfying, it’s perfect for summer gatherings because it can be made ahead of time. The creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables make it a refreshing and comforting addition to any summer meal or picnic.

The Ultimate Potato Salad from the Girl and the Kitchen

The Ultimate Classic Potato Salad

This potato salad is my go-to for summer potlucks! It’s got that creamy dressing everyone loves, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a nice crunch from the veggies. It’s refreshing, versatile, and always brings a touch of comfort food nostalgia to any outdoor meal.

Main Courses

Crab cakes with sauce on them - Girl and the Kitchen

The Ultimate Crab Cake Recipe

These crab cakes are an absolute BOMB for summer! Filled with juicy crab meat, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice – all packed into a delicious cake. Perfect for a summer get-together, these beauties can be enjoyed as a light starter or the main event with a side salad. Either way, they’re bursting with summer flavors and a texture that’ll leave you wanting more!

Tuscan Mussels and Shrimp. Girl and the Kitchen-

Tuscan Steamed Mussels and Shrimp

This recipe for Tuscan Steamed Mussels and Shrimp is screaming summer! Imagine yourself chilling outside on a warm night, digging into a dish that tastes like a trip to the beautiful coast of Tuscany. 

Forget fancy and fussy – this seafood is all about fresh, light flavors. Garlicky goodness, white wine, and a touch of tomato come together in a broth that’s perfect for dipping crusty bread. It’s seriously delicious, and pairs like a dream with a glass of cold white wine.

Beer Battered Crispy Fish Tacos

Beer Battered Crispy Fish Tacos

Just made these beer-battered fish tacos and let me tell you, they’re bursting with summer vibes! Think light, crispy fish tacos piled high with cool, refreshing toppings like slaw, creamy avocado, and cilantro. The beer batter gives the fish this amazing crunch, and the whole thing just pops with flavor. These tacos are perfect for a backyard BBQ or a beach picnic – basically, anywhere you can soak up some sun and enjoy a delicious meal outdoors. Let me know if you give them a try!

One Pan Cajun Salmon and Asparagus

One Pan Cajun Salmon and Asparagus

This one-pan Cajun salmon and asparagus is a lifesaver for busy summer nights. It’s light, flavorful, and cleanup is a breeze! The Cajun seasoning gives the salmon a nice little kick, and the asparagus adds a refreshing crunch. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, so you can spend less time slaving away in the kitchen and more time soaking up the sun.

Saffron Butter Poached Lobster (5 of 8)

Easy One Pan Saffron Butter Poached Lobster

Feeling fancy this summer? Treat yourself to this one-pan saffron butter poached lobster recipe. It’s pure luxury! The buttery sauce with the aromatic saffron perfectly complements the sweetness of the lobster. It’s decadent enough for a special occasion but so easy you can whip it up for a romantic dinner under the stars. Plus, the one-pan cooking means less mess, so you can focus on enjoying every delicious bite.

Honey Dijon Planked Salmon from the Girl and the Kitchen

Honey Dijon Plank Salmon

Want to impress your guests this summer? This honey Dijon plank salmon is the answer. It’s perfect for grilling and adds a touch of sophistication to your cookout. The sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard create a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the cedar plank, giving the salmon a rich, smoky flavor. Grilling on a plank not only adds a wonderful woodsy aroma but also keeps the fish moist and tender. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to make!

Easy Mediterranean Meatballs

Wow! These meatballs are loaded with yummy Mediterranean flavors – garlic, oregano, parsley – making them a perfect summer dish. You can serve them however you like: over pasta, on a sandwich, or even on a mezze platter with other dips and bites. They’re so versatile and delicious, perfect for sharing with friends and family at your next backyard BBQ or park picnic.

Oven Roasted Stuffed Pork Shoulder.Girl and the kitchen. jpg

One Pan Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Veggies (30 Minute Meal)

This recipe is a lifesaver on those hot summer days when you want a delicious and satisfying meal but don’t feel like slaving away in the kitchen. Just throw together some tender pork tenderloin and your favorite colorful veggies, roast them all together on one pan, and voila! Easy to prepare, easy to clean up – more time for soaking up the sunshine!

A super simple one pot garlic and herb roast pork perfect for any fancy dinner party or a simple weeknight dinner

Garlic and Herb Pork Roast…A One Pot Recipe

One-pot meals are the BEST on lazy summer days, and this garlic and herb pork roast is no exception. The flavors are amazing, the meat and veggies are perfectly cooked, and it all comes together in one pot – meaning less heat in the kitchen and more time spent outdoors!

Roasted Lamb Loin with Mint Chimichurri

Roasted Lamb Loin with Mint Chimichurri

Want to impress your guests this summer without a ton of work? This roasted lamb loin with a fresh mint chimichurri is the answer! The mint adds a cool and refreshing touch to the rich lamb flavor, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings and special occasions. Trust me, it’ll wow everyone!

My Asian Style Grilled and Marinated Flank Steak is full of flavor, texture and that mmmmmm savory umami balance on your palate that makes you beg for more and more.

Asian Style Grilled and Marinated Flank Steak

This flank steak recipe is about to become your new favorite summer grill dish. I marinate it in this crazy-good Asian-inspired sauce that makes the steak super flavorful and juicy. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings and al fresco dining – definitely give it a try!

This delicious grilled chicken thighs recipe is perfect for a midweek meal when you need dinner on the table in 30 minutes! The marinade serves as a brine so it infuses the flavor quickly and also acts like a glaze when the chicken is grilling! Easy and fast? Now that's a mid week meal!

Serrano Soy Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs

These grilled chicken thighs are the BOMB! Marinated in a killer mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and Serrano peppers, they’re crazy flavorful and juicy. Perfect for summer grilling, they’ve got this sweet and spicy kick that goes perfectly with eating outdoors and hanging with friends. Plus, they’ll be the star of any BBQ!

Juicy Grilled Turkey Burger

Juicy Grilled Turkey Burger

These turkey burgers are seriously gonna blow your mind! They’re packed with smoky goodness from the grill and come on toasted buns with all your favorite toppings. Lighter than beef burgers, they’re a healthier option for summer cookouts, but still super satisfying. Perfect for enjoying outside with friends and family on a sunny day!

BBQ Teriyaki Marinated Grilled Chicken and the Most Versatile Spice Mix Ever

BBQ Teriyaki Marinated Grilled Chicken and the Most Versatile Spice Mix Ever

This recipe is a double win: the teriyaki marinade gives the chicken tons of flavor, and then the grill adds that smoky goodness we all love for summer BBQs. Plus, I’ve got this secret spice mix that takes the marinade to the next level. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

The ultimate BBQ chicken is slightly tangy and sticky sweet. Learn the restaurant secrets to cooking perfectly tender BBQ chicken and how to make a gloriously sweet and spicy sauce to mop on top of it.

Bourbon Peach Chipotle BBQ Chicken

This BBQ chicken is basically summer on a plate! The sweetness of the peaches balances perfectly with the kick of bourbon for a flavor that’s both unique and delicious. The chicken comes out super tender, and it’s sure to be the star of your next BBQ.

Roast Chicken Drumsticks with Garlic

How to Roast Chicken Drumsticks with Garlic and Herbs

These roasted chicken drumsticks are the perfect weeknight summer meal. They’re super simple to throw together, and the garlic and herb seasoning makes them smell amazing. Pair them with a fresh salad and some grilled veggies for a complete summer dinner that’s easy and flavorful.

Shish Tawook Kebobs from the Girl and the kitchen
Jujeh Kebob

Healthy Persian Chicken Kebabs

Get ready for a summer sensation! These Persian chicken kebabs are marinated in a delicious blend of spices and yogurt, making them incredibly tender and flavorful. Grilling them to perfection gives them that irresistible charred taste and a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite. Perfect for outdoor gatherings and BBQs – your friends will be begging for the recipe!

Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast (11 of 11)

Easy Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast

These Caprese stuffed chicken breasts are like a little taste of Italy on a plate! They’re filled with gooey mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil – all the classic Caprese flavors we love. They’re light yet satisfying, making them perfect for a summer meal.

Baja Style Mexican Hot Dogs

Baja Style Mexican Hot Dogs

Channel your inner beach bum with these Baja-style Mexican hot dogs! They’re loaded with fresh pico de gallo, creamy avocado, and a kick of spicy mayo – a flavor fiesta in every bite! Perfect for summer cookouts or beachside picnics, they’re a delicious and satisfying way to celebrate the season’s fresh ingredients.

Summer Vegetable Stew...A One Pot Meal

Summer Vegetable Stew…A One Pot Meal

This one-pan wonder is packed with all the best summer veggies – zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, corn – simmered in a delicious broth until they’re nice and tender. It’s perfect for summer because it’s hearty and comforting, but still super easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to use up all that fresh summer produce that’s overflowing in your fridge. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!

Sides

Lemon Infused Pearl Cous Cous from the Girl and the Kitchen

Lemon Infused Israeli Couscous Recipe

This lemon-infused Israeli couscous is practically screaming summer! It’s light and refreshing, but packed with flavor.The lemon zest adds this amazing zing, and the herbs and toasted almonds give it a great crunch. This would be perfect as a side dish at a BBQ, or even just a light lunch on a hot day. Seriously, every bite tastes like summer!

Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)

Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)

Man, this Grilled Mexican Street Corn recipe is basically summer in a cob! Imagine those sweet, juicy kernels, charred a bit from the grill, then coated in this creamy, dreamy sauce. It’s like mayo, but way more exciting, you know? There’s this salty cheese, a kick of chili powder, and a hit of fresh lime juice. Perfect for backyard cookouts, picnics, or any summer get-together where you want some seriously delicious eats.

Corn and tomato salad - Girl and the Kitchen

Summer Corn Salad

This Summer Corn Salad is seriously packed with summer flavors! It’s got sweet, fresh corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a tangy lime dressing that all come together for a light and refreshing dish. Perfect for those hot summer days, right? It’s not just delicious, it’s also colorful and healthy – a real celebration of all that amazing summer produce. This salad would be a hit at any BBQ, picnic, or get-together outside!

Low Carb Brussels Sprouts with Garlicky Gremolata on a sheet pan

Low Carb Brussels Sprouts with Gremolata

Wow, these low-carb Brussels sprouts with gremolata are a winner! They’re like little flavor bombs – tender roasted sprouts tossed in a bright and garlicky gremolata made with fresh parsley and lemon zest. They’re perfect for summer because they’re light and refreshing, and the citrus just pops with all the fresh summer produce. Plus, they’re healthy and won’t leave you feeling weighed down, making them ideal for outdoor meals or summer BBQs.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Lemony Garlic Dressing

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Lemony Garlic Dressing

This salad is all about the crunch! Crisp shaved Brussels sprouts get tossed in a tangy lemony garlic dressing, then sprinkled with toasted almonds and Parmesan cheese for a touch of richness. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for summer. The bright and zesty dressing adds a refreshing touch, making it a great side dish for barbecues or picnics.

Grilled Eggplant and Vegetables Salad

Grilled Eggplant and Vegetables Salad

This salad screams summer! It’s light, refreshing, and packed with all the best seasonal veggies. Grilling the eggplant and peppers gives them this smoky flavor that’s amazing, and the dressing is just tangy enough to bring out the sweetness of the vegetables. It’s the perfect side dish for any summer meal, period.

Pan Fried Eggplant with Garlic and Herbs-4

Healthy Pan Fried Baby Eggplant with Gremolata

Summer is prime eggplant season, and this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy it. Pan-frying the eggplant makes it nice and crispy on the outside, while the gremolata adds this fresh, zesty flavor on top. It’s healthy, it’s satisfying, and it’s perfect for summer dinners or backyard barbecues!

Lemon Parmesan Asparagus

Lemon Parmesan Asparagus

Level up your summer side dishes with these amazing asparagus spears! Roasted to perfection, they’re infused with zesty lemon and savory Parmesan cheese. The result? Tender-crisp asparagus bursting with freshness and flavor. They’re a delicious and elegant addition to any summer meal.

Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad from the Girl and the Kitchen

Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad

This salad is like summer exploded in your mouth! It’s bursting with fresh, seasonal flavors – charred corn, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs – all tossed in a zesty lime dressing. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day and goes great with grilled meats. Plus, it’s full of flavor and color and will definitely impress everyone at your next BBQ.

Desserts

plate with blueberry yogurt cake with a slice taken out and topped with powdered sugar

Gateau au Yaourt: French Yogurt Cake with Lemon and Blueberries

This French yogurt cake is a total summer dream! It’s bursting with bright lemon and juicy blueberries, making it light, fluffy, and perfect for a warm day. Plus, the refreshing citrus notes just scream sunshine and relaxation. Yum! Imagine enjoying a slice after a summer meal – pure bliss!

Drinks

Sparkling Bellini Mocktail (7 of 9)

Sparkling Bellini Mocktail

Wow, this Sparkling Bellini Mocktail is amazing! It’s SO refreshing and bubbly, perfect for any summer get-together. It tastes like sunshine in a glass, seriously! The sparkling peach juice is perfectly balanced with a little bit of tart lemon. I can totally see myself sipping on this by the pool, or it would be a huge hit at a backyard BBQ. This mocktail is definitely going to be my go-to drink all summer long to keep me cool and happy!

Berry and Thyme Hugo Spritz

The Hugo Spritz is like summer in a glass! It’s a light and bubbly cocktail made with elderflower liqueur, prosecco, sparkling water, and fresh mint. It’s perfect for sipping on a hot day, whether you’re chilling by the pool, having a BBQ in the backyard, or picnicking in the park.

Raspberry Moscow Mule

Raspberry Moscow Mule

Beat the summer heat with this refreshing Raspberry Moscow Mule! It’s a fruity twist on the classic cocktail that’s bursting with vibrant raspberries and lime. The ginger beer on top adds a fun fizz, making it the ultimate thirst-quencher for those warm summer nights spent with loved ones.

With a summer recipe rolodex this deep, you’ll never be caught staring blankly at your fridge again. Weeknights, weekends, barbecues, potlucks – no matter the occasion, there’s a delicious and refreshing dish waiting to be whipped up in this collection. So crank up the tunes, light the grill, and gather your loved ones around the table. Summertime feasts await, and these easy recipes are your ticket to stress-free, flavor-packed enjoyment. Dive in and savor the season!

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