Summer is a time when picnics, barbeques and potlucks seems to be around every corner. From family gatherings to park hangs with friends, good food creates magic. Here are some delicious summer dishes that you can consider making:
- Caprese Skewers: Skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a refreshing and colorful appetizer.
- Watermelon Feta Salad: Combine juicy watermelon chunks, crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and a sprinkle of lime juice for a sweet and savory salad that screams summer.
- Pasta Salad: Toss cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a zesty vinaigrette. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies and herbs.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grill fresh corn until it’s slightly charred and brush with melted butter, sprinkle with salt, and squeeze some lime juice for a classic summer side dish.
- Berry Spinach Salad: Mix baby spinach leaves with a medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Add some toasted nuts, crumbled goat cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette for a light and flavorful salad.
- BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders: Slow-cook chicken breasts in your favorite BBQ sauce until they are tender and easy to shred. Serve the pulled chicken on mini slider buns with coleslaw for a finger-licking crowd-pleaser.
- Mediterranean Couscous Salad: Combine cooked couscous with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying salad option.
- Strawberry Shortcake: Prepare a classic dessert by layering fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and sponge cake or shortcake biscuits. It’s a delightful treat that showcases the sweetness of summer berries.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Skewer a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. Grill until tender and serve as a flavorful vegetarian option.
- Lemon Bars: Bake a batch of tangy lemon bars with a buttery crust and a zesty lemon filling. They are a perfect balance of sweet and citrusy, making them an ideal summer dessert.
- Mediterranean Orzo Salad: Toss cooked orzo pasta with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs (such as parsley and mint), and a lemon vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing and satisfying salad option.
- Caprese Pasta Salad: Combine cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls (or diced fresh mozzarella), fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil. It’s a flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinate large shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. Skewer the shrimp and grill until cooked. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce on the side.
- Cucumber Avocado Salad: Toss sliced cucumbers, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh dill in a light dressing made with lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey. It’s a refreshing and creamy salad option.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders: Slow-cook pork shoulder with your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s tender and easy to shred. Serve the pulled pork on mini slider buns with coleslaw for a crowd-pleasing option.
- Grilled Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Grill a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix with cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, and a lemon-herb dressing.
- Pineapple Salsa: Combine diced fresh pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for a sweet and tangy salsa that pairs well with grilled meats or as a dip with tortilla chips.
- Greek Yogurt Fruit Salad: Mix a variety of fresh summer fruits like berries, melons, grapes, and citrus segments. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a creamy and healthy fruit salad.
- Mango Coconut Ice Pops: Blend ripe mangoes with coconut milk and a touch of honey. Pour the mixture into ice pop molds and freeze until set. These tropical treats are perfect for cooling down on hot summer days.
- Bruschetta: Toast slices of baguette and top them with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. It’s a classic and refreshing appetizer.
- Quinoa-Stuffed Bell Peppers: Cook quinoa according to package instructions and mix it with sautéed vegetables, herbs, and your choice of protein like cooked chicken or tofu. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
- Corn and Black Bean Salad: Combine grilled or steamed corn kernels, black beans, diced bell peppers, red onions, and cilantro. Toss with a lime vinaigrette and season with salt and pepper. It’s a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Remember to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of your guests when choosing your dishes. Enjoy the events and the diverse array of flavors that everyone brings to the table!