Summer is the perfect time to turn on the grill and enjoy the warm weather outside. Before you head back to school, here are 15 recipes perfect for the hot weather. Make use of delicious seasonal vegetables and fruits in these recipes. Whether you’re looking for a new idea for lunch or a cold treat to cool you off, we’ve got your back.
1. Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Photo by Catherine Kinney
For an elegant summer dish to surprise your family with, try this grilled stuffed portobello mushroom. And if you’re worried about that beach bod, it’s even under 350 calories.
2. Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Photo by Amanda Gajdosik
Sweet potato fries are a personal favorite of mine, and these delicious fries are the perfect pairing with any summer barbecue. Season with sea salt and rosemary, and you can’t mess up this simple but satisfying side dish.
3. Pulled Pork Sandwich
Photo by Leigh Needham
Catch up on your favorite Netflix show while you’re letting this savory dish cook in the crock pot. Slow cooking ensures maximum flavor and minimal work.
4. Zucchini Corn Salad
Photo by Jackie Kuczynski
Zucchini and corn are summer’s favorite vegetables and are best enjoyed during the summer. Make use of your fresh produce and cook a healthy zucchini and corn salad that’s low in calories and high in vitamin C.
5. Green Tea and Berry Smoothie
Photo by Rachel Piorko
For a fresh twist on the typical berry smoothie, add 1/2 cup of chilled green tea to your typical berry blend and enjoy this refreshing drink while reading a book by the pool.
6. Quick Coleslaw
Photo by Kirby Barth
This all-American side is essential at any barbecue, and this recipe is guaranteed to give you that sweet and tangy coleslaw you’ve been waiting for.
7. Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad
Photo by Libby Perold
Watermelon is a classic summer fruit that is enjoyed by kids and adults alike, but did you ever think of trying it in a salad? The contrasting flavors will bring a burst of surprise in your mouth and will also help you to cool off under the hot summer sun.
8. Mango Mojito Popsicle
Photo by Megan Prendergast
For those of you who are underage, try this popsicle alternative to the classic drink and cool off from the hot summer heat with this sweet treat.
9. Vegetable Risotto
Photo by Aly Sebold
For another recipe that you can utilize your summer veggies in, try this creamy vegetable risotto. Its comforting flavors will have you coming back for seconds again and again.
10. Summer Ceviche
Photo by Lexa Rowland
Save yourself some big bucks, and make this classy dish at home. No actual “cooking” is involved, and thus the fresh taste of the tilapia really comes through.
11. Raspberry Mango Smoothie
Photo by Abigail Wilkins
If this doesn’t look like summer, then I don’t know what does. Bright colors aren’t the only factor that makes this smoothie so attractive, as it’s also packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.
12. Summer Rice Paper Rolls
Photo by Denisse Porras
Rice paper rolls are a favorite of mine because they’re so customizable. For a summer twist, try mango, avocado, and spinach inside your roll.
13. Strawberry Lemon Agua Fresca
Photo by Kathleen Lee
For a twist on the classic watermelon agua fresca, try this refreshing strawberry lemon agua fresca. It’s the perfect summer beverage and will keep you hydrated if you’re terrible at drinking water like me.
14. Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Photo by Jackie Kuczynski
With a mere six ingredients, you can make a delicious meal that is carb-free and finger-friendly. That’s pretty great if you ask me.
15. Whole Lemon Lemonade
Photo by Angela Pizzimenti
Lemonade is the epitome of a summer drink, and this recipe uses an entire lemon, yes an entire lemon, to make some delicious homemade lemonade.