Cool Cuisine: 10 Refreshing Summer Recipes for Hot Days
Discover > Texas Recipes > Cool Cuisine: 10 Refreshing Summer Recipes for Hot Days
Embrace the Season with Easy Summer Dinner Recipes
When the sun is shining and the days are long, there's nothing quite like gathering around the table for a delightful summer dinner. Whether you're hosting a casual backyard get-together or enjoying a quiet evening at home, easy summer dinner recipes are the perfect way to embrace the season and create memorable dining experiences. From light and refreshing salads to mouthwatering grilled dishes, these recipes are designed to make your summer dinners a breeze.
With the abundance of fresh produce and the desire for meals that are both satisfying and effortless, easy summer dinner recipes are a must-have in every home cook's repertoire. From vibrant salads bursting with color and flavor to flavorful main courses that highlight the best seasonal ingredients, these recipes offer a variety of options to suit every taste and occasion. So, get ready to fire up the grill, toss together crisp salads, and create refreshing summer dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.
We'll provide a variety of cool summer dishes that are simple to make and ideal for relaxing in front of the TV on sunny summer nights. These recipes, from bright fruit salads to chicken marinated in citrus juice, will help you beat the heat while satisfying your appetite. The following easy summer supper dishes will unquestionably raise the bar on your summer meals.
Grilled Corn Salad with Basil and Tomatoes
This vibrant and refreshing salad combines the smoky flavors of grilled corn with the aromatic freshness of basil (how long does basil last?) and the burst of sweetness from tomatoes. The corn is grilled to perfection, resulting in a charred and slightly caramelized taste that adds depth to the salad. There's a hint of herbaceousness from the basil leaves and a punch of tangy sweetness from the tomatoes. All the ingredients are tossed together with a drizzle of olive oil, which enhances the flavors and adds a silky texture to the salad. This corn salad is best enjoyed as a side dish for a summer barbecue, as it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. It can also be served as a light and easy dinner recipe on a warm evening, allowing you to savor the essence of summer produce in every bite.
Ingredients:
4 ears of fresh corn, husked
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
If you can’t find these ingredients in your local markets, you can order olive oil, salt, and pepper online!
Preparation:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Brush the corn with oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and cooked through.
Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly.
Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Add the tomatoes, basil, oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
Toss everything together until well combined.
Serve the salad as a side dish or on its own for a light summer meal.
The best places to get these items are from your local markets, but if you can’t find any nearby, you can easily order a griller, basting brush, and mixing bowl online!
Tangy Goat Cheese and Grilled Shrimp Skewers
These skewers are a delightful combination of tangy goat cheese and succulent grilled shrimp. The creamy and goat cheese beautifully contrasts with the tender and flavorful shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The shrimp are marinated in a savory mixture and then grilled to perfection, resulting in a slightly smoky and charred exterior with a juicy and succulent interior. When paired with goat cheese, the flavors meld together to create a sensational burst of umami. These skewers make an elegant and impressive appetizer for any occasion, adding a touch of sophistication to your summer gatherings. They can also be enjoyed as a main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or grilled vegetables, for a memorable and satisfying summer meal.
Ingredients:
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 ounces goat cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves (how long do cloves last?) garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Preheat the grill to medium heat.
In a small bowl, mix the oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers, alternating with small pieces of goat cheese.
Brush the shrimp skewers with the oil mixture, coating them evenly.
Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are cooked and lightly charred.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute before serving.
Serve the goat cheese and skewers as an appetizer or main course with a side of salad or grilled vegetables.
I highly recommend purchasing skewers online for a convenient shopping experience!
Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill Dressing
Cool and refreshing, this creamy cucumber salad is a classic summer dish that brings together the crispness of cucumbers (how long do cucumbers last?) with the delicate flavors of a creamy dill (how long does dill last?) dressing. The cucumbers are thinly sliced, allowing them to retain their refreshing crunch, while the dill dressing adds a creamy and tangy element to the salad. The dressing, made with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic, creates a creamy texture that coats the cucumbers perfectly. The dill lends a fresh and herbaceous note, enhancing the overall taste of the salad. This salad is best enjoyed as a side dish for a summer barbecue, as it complements grilled meats or seafood beautifully. It can also be served alongside grilled chicken or fish as a light and refreshing accompaniment, making it an ideal choice for a quick and easy summer meal.
Ingredients:
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss them with the dressing until well coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the salad as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch option.
Strawberry Basil Ice Cream
Experience the delightful combination of sweet strawberries and aromatic basil with this homemade Strawberry Basil Ice Cream. Crafted to perfection, this creamy treat captures the essence of summer in every spoonful. Fresh and juicy strawberries are transformed into a smooth and velvety base, blending harmoniously with a rich mixture of whole milk, heavy cream, and just the right amount of sugar. The result is a luscious and creamy strawberry ice cream with the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess from the strawberries. Each mouthful is elevated by the addition of a subtle herbaceous note imparted by the infusion of fragrant basil leaves into the mixture, which pairs exquisitely with the bright strawberries. Whether enjoyed in a crispy cone, a chilled bowl, or as a delightful addition to a decadent sundae, this Strawberry Basil Ice Cream is a delicious and refreshing way to celebrate the flavors of summer, offering a delightful combination of fruity sweetness and aromatic herbaceousness that will leave you craving more on even the hottest days.
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
If you're looking for whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar, buying it online is your best bet!
Preparation:
In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries until smooth.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and chopped basil until the sugar is dissolved.
Stir in the strawberry puree and mix well.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Once churned, transfer the strawberry basil ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for a few hours until firm.
Serve the ice cream in bowls or cones for a refreshing summer dessert.
When it comes to getting the best deals, buying a blender or food processor and airtight container, online is the way to go!
Classic Summer Salad with Fresh Veggies and Balsamic Vinaigrette
This classic summer salad is a combination of fresh veggies that comes together to create a vivid and colorful dish that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of summer. The salad features a bed of crisp mixed salad greens as the base, which provides a refreshing and slightly bitter contrast to the other ingredients. The tomatoes, halved and bursting with juiciness, add a hint of sweetness and bright acidity. Diced cucumbers contribute a cool and crunchy texture, while thinly sliced red onions lend a mild, zesty bite. All the vegetables are drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, which enhances their natural flavors and adds a delightful tang. The dressing, made with a combination of balsamic vinegar (how long does balsamic vinegar last?), extra-virgin olive oil, and a hint of seasoning, ties all the elements together harmoniously. This summer salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a refreshing side at any summer dinner or barbecue. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, and can also be enjoyed on its own for a light and satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the most extensive selection, I suggest buying balsamic vinegar online!
Preparation:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until well-coated.
Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the salad as a refreshing side dish, or add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
Grilled Chicken with Summer Vegetable Medley
Grilled chicken and a colorful array of summer vegetables make for a delicious way to celebrate the season. The chicken breasts are expertly grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and tender meat with a beautiful smoky char. Alongside the chicken, an array of summer vegetables takes center stage. Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes add a burst of freshness and a delightful crunch to each bite. The combination of flavors from the grilled chicken and the charred vegetables creates a harmonious balance that embodies the essence of summer dining. This dish is best enjoyed as a main course, accompanied by a side of rice or quinoa (how long does quinoa last?), or served atop a bed of mixed greens for a light and satisfying summer meal.
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups summer vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes), sliced
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Save time and effort by ordering dried italian seasoning and basil leaves online!
Preparation:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, mix together the oil, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Brush the chicken breasts with the oil mixture, coating them evenly.
Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetable medley. In a large bowl, combine the sliced summer vegetables, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Toss the vegetables to coat them with the lemon juice and seasoning.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
While the chicken is resting, grill the summer vegetables in a grill basket or wrap them in aluminum foil and grill for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it with the summer vegetable medley.
Garnish with basil leaves if desired.
Don't miss out on the ease and convenience of purchasing grill baskets or aluminum foil online!
Refreshing Pasta Salad with Summer Veggies and Herbs
Embrace the essence of summer with this easy summer dinner recipe that showcases an abundance of vibrant summer vegetables and fragrant herbs. The star of the dish is the al dente fusilli pasta (how long does pasta last?), which provides a pleasing texture and acts as the perfect canvas for the accompanying ingredients. The salad bursts with the flavors of tomatoes, zucchini, yellow bell peppers, and red onions, all of which are grilled to enhance their natural sweetness and add a delightful smoky note. The dish is beautifully seasoned with a light and zesty vinaigrette, allowing the flavors of the vegetables and herbs to shine through. Basil and parsley infuse the salad with a vibrant aroma and an additional layer of freshness. This refreshing pasta salad is a versatile option, ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch on a hot summer day. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood, adding a burst of color and flavor to summer dinners or barbecue.
Ingredients:
8 ounces fusilli pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Skip the lines and order your fusilli pasta online for a stress-free shopping experience!
Preparation:
Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, zucchini, yellow bell pepper, red onion, basil leaves, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well coated.
Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve the refreshing pasta salad as a side dish or a light main course for a summer lunch or dinner.
Grilled Steaks with Fresh Mint Chimichurri Sauce
Perfectly grilled steaks complemented by a vivid and invigorating mint chimichurri sauce—this meal will take your summer dining experience to the next level. The steaks are expertly cooked to your desired level of doneness, resulting in tender and succulent meat with a delectable charred crust. The star of the dish, the mint chimichurri sauce, is a harmonious blend of fresh mint leaves, parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. It adds a zesty and herbaceous kick to the steaks, elevating their flavors and providing a delightful contrast. The combination of juicy grilled steaks and the mint chimichurri sauce creates a culinary experience that is both sophisticated and satisfying. This dish is best enjoyed as a centerpiece at a summer barbecue or as a special occasion dinner, allowing you to savor the bold and refreshing flavors that epitomize summer grilling.
Ingredients:
2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
1 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
I always prefer buying red wine vinegar online because of the added convenience!
Preparation:
Preheat the grill to high heat.
Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
Grill the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired doneness.
Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare the mint chimichurri sauce. In a bowl, combine the chopped mint, parsley, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper.
Stir the ingredients together until well mixed.
Slice the grilled steaks and drizzle the mint chimichurri sauce over the top.
Serve the grilled steaks with the refreshing mint chimichurri sauce as a delicious main course.
Easy Summer BBQ Chicken Salad with Corn and Avocado
Indulge in the taste of summer with this easy and flavorful dish that combines the smoky flavors of grilled chicken with the sweetness of corn and the creaminess of avocado. The grilled chicken is generously coated in a tangy barbecue sauce, providing a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile. The charred and caramelized notes from the grill add depth to the dish, making each bite a delight. The corn kernels are grilled to perfection, intensifying their natural sweetness and adding a satisfying crunch. The creamy avocado brings a smooth and rich element, complementing the smoky flavors of the chicken and the sweetness of the corn. All the ingredients come together harmoniously, creating a salad that is both satisfying and refreshing. This easy summer dish is perfect for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner, offering a complete and well-rounded meal that celebrates the flavors of summer.
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup grilled corn kernels
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons ranch dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
Online shopping for barbecue sauce and ranch dressing is the smart choice for a seamless transaction!
Preparation:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grilled corn kernels, diced avocado, tomatoes, and red onion.
Drizzle the barbecue sauce and ranch dressing over the salad.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss everything together until well coated.
Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the dish as a satisfying and flavorful meal on its own or in wraps or sandwiches.
Grilled Potato Salad with Tangy Mustard Dressing
This delicious twist on traditional potato salad is made with roasted baby potatoes and a spicy mustard (how long does mustard last?) dressing. The baby potatoes are grilled to perfection, resulting in a delightful smoky flavor and a slightly crispy exterior. As you bite into the salad, the creamy and fluffy texture of the potatoes gives way to a burst of smokiness that is enhanced by the tangy and flavorful mustard dressing. The dressing is a perfect blend of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey, providing a creamy and tangy profile that complements the smoky potatoes beautifully. To add an additional layer of complexity, the salad is garnished with sliced green onions and fresh dill, adding a subtle zing and a touch of herbal freshness. This grilled potato salad is an ideal side dish for a summer barbecue or a picnic, offering a unique twist on a classic favorite and tantalizing your taste buds with every bite.
Ingredients:
1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Enjoy the convenience of doorstep delivery when you buy mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey online!
Preparation:
Preheat the grill to medium heat.
In a bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Place the potatoes on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
While the potatoes are grilling, prepare the tangy mustard dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and let them cool slightly.
Add the green onions, fresh dill, and tangy mustard dressing to the bowl with the potatoes.
Toss everything together until the potatoes are coated with the dressing.
Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the grilled potato salad as a flavorful and unique side dish for your summer meals or barbecues.
Create Your Summer Culinary Adventure
These easy summer recipes are your ticket to creating delicious and memorable meals during the sun-soaked season. These recipes, ranging from tempting salads to succulent grilled entrees, offer a wide variety of flavors and textures to satiate your cravings and make the most of the season's bounty. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a relaxed dinner with family and friends, or simply looking for a quick and flavorful meal, these recipes have got you covered.
With the simplicity of preparation and the emphasis on fresh ingredients, these recipes take the stress out of cooking, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the long, lazy days of summer. So fire up the grill, embrace the flavors of the season, and let the tantalizing aromas waft through the air. From the sizzling savory delights to the sweet and creamy treats like vanilla ice cream, these recipes will transport you to a culinary paradise, capturing the essence of summer in every bite.
Now is the time to unleash your inner chef and create your own summer dining adventure. So grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and embark on a delicious journey with these simple meals. Don't be afraid to get creative, add your own twist, and savor the taste of the season.
