Fresh and Easy Summer Recipes
Summer is a time of great freedom. Long, sunny days, an overflow of sweet summer vegetables, and the smoky aroma of charcoal filling the air. It's no wonder that there are endless recipes to choose from. We've selected a few of our favorite summer bites to keep you going (and grilling) all season long. Crack open a cold one or try one of the cocktails below. Whatever you choose, we know you'll be serving up fresh dishes in no time.
Sides
A crow pleasing take on the traditional side, this grilled Mexican Street Corn Salad is packed with traditional Mexican flavors like cotija and chili. The salty cheese and sweet corn are the perfect combination paired with its creamy, smokey sauce. This is the salad everyone is sure to love.
For a great dairy-free and vegan option, we love to go with a big salad. But this salad is anything but simple. Perfectly charred veggies with its bright lemony basil vinaigrette tossed in a bed of greens make this the ultimate summer salad. It's light and healthy manner make it an easy go to option for weeknight dinners.
For a hearty and healthy all in one salad, we're definitely going with this Summer Chopped Salad from Half-baked Harvest. It's everything you love about an Italian salad with a fresh summer twist. We love the addition of peaches and crispy prosciutto breadcrumbs. Try it for yourself, you just might have a new favorite.
No one wants to add to the heat of the summer by turning on the oven, especially not in hot, hot California. Why not fire up the grill instead and make this easy grilled flatbread? It's a great side to pair with your favorite kebabs or grilled chicken recipe. Or simply serve it with a side of hummus or creamy dipping sauce.
Entrees
Shrimp? Steak? Why not have both with these surf and turf kebabs with chimichurri sauce. It's elegant and easy which makes it perfect for that summer date night or evening with friends. You'll love the combination of tender steak and juicy shrimp. We know we do!
Bust out the charcoal and get ready to grill up this delicious salmon recipe. It's simple to make and done in just 20 minutes. You can mix it up by adding additional spices to the rub to fit your preferences or add your favorite dipping sauce to really make this recipe pop.
We'll never say no to pizza. As much as we'd love to have a wood burning pizza oven in our yard, we'll settle for this grilled summer pizza. We love the use of burrata which takes it to another level from traditional shredded mozzarella. With a handful of fresh ingredients and the use of pre-made pizza dough, you can get this together easily any day of the week.
This is not your typical Chick-fil-A style chicken sandwich. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and cheese are loaded onto a seared golden bun. What really makes this sandwich different is the combination of grilled onions, fresh peaces, and hot honey that pulls it all together. It's a serenade to summer in a sandwich that will having you singing all season long.
Cocktails
It's easy to crack open a beer and call it a day when you're in the peak of the summer heat. For a positively delightful take on the traditional shandy, try this peach summer shandy. Use your favorite light beer, lemonade, and a sweet kick of peach brandy to bring it all together. It's simple and delicious enough to drink for months to come.
Who doesn't love a good margarita? This watermelon margarita can be shaken or frozen, and even comes with an alcohol free version that all ages can enjoy. With the watermelon being the main sweetener, don't miss out on the tips on how to properly pick the best watermelons. Try it out and it could be your next go to summer drink.
Light and fruity, this summer moscato sangria is sure to please any crowd! With a little preparation ahead, you can have it ready for your next cocktail party. We love the freedom it gives you to use whatever fruit you like. Paired with Moscato, it's sweet, light, and absolutely delicious!
If you're looking for something on the more savory side, this traditional michelada will not disappoint. Make it spicy and add in the beer of your choice. It's one of our favorite summer drinks that really kick things up.
With fresh tomatoes, a hot grill, and an icy drink in your hand, there's much to enjoy about summer and these fresh summer recipes. It's all about keeping things easy and simple this season. We hope that you try out one of these delicious recipes on your grill or in your home. They're sure to keep your summer menus fresh and delicious all season long!
