Hello, sun-lovers and grill enthusiasts! Summer is here, and it’s time to shift our kitchens outdoors and take advantage of the season’s bounty. Whether you’re planning a beach picnic, a backyard barbecue, or a simple family dinner on the patio, I’ve got you covered with some fantastic summer meal ideas that are quick, refreshing, and perfect for hot weather.
1. Grilled Peach and Chicken Salad
Kick off your summer cooking with a salad that stars the grill. Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, and herbs before grilling them to perfection. Pair them with grilled peaches, which caramelize beautifully for a sweet contrast. Toss these with mixed greens, a sprinkle of goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze for a salad that is both hearty and refreshing.
2. Zesty Lime Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a summer staple, and for a good reason. They’re light, flavorful, and a breeze to make. Opt for a firm white fish like cod or mahi-mahi, season with garlic, chili powder, and lime juice, then grill for a few minutes on each side. Serve in soft tortillas with a slaw of cabbage, cilantro, and a drizzle of avocado-lime dressing for a zesty bite.
3. Caprese Stuffed Avocado
This no-cook recipe makes a perfect appetizer or light lunch during the scorching days of summer. Halve some ripe avocados and remove the pit. Fill the center with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and you’ve got a dish that’s as delicious as it is simple.
4. Classic Barbecue Ribs
What’s summer without some lip-smacking barbecue ribs? Season your ribs with a dry rub, slow-cook them in the oven or on the grill until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender, and slather with your favorite BBQ sauce. Serve with sides of corn on the cob and homemade coleslaw for a traditional touch to your summer feast.
5. Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad
For a refreshing side dish, try a watermelon, feta, and mint salad. Cube fresh watermelon and toss it with crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped mint. Add a splash of lime juice and a pinch of black pepper to elevate the flavors. This salad is hydrating, sweet, and savory, making it a perfect palate cleanser or side dish during hot days.
6. Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
Shrimp boil foil packets are a fun and easy way to enjoy seafood. In each foil packet, combine shrimp, corn, sausage, and potatoes seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and plenty of butter. Grill over medium heat until everything is cooked through and juicy. These packets make for a no-mess meal that captures the essence of summer.
7. Berry Tarts with Lemon Mascarpone
End your summer meals on a sweet note with simple berry tarts. Use ready-made tart shells or make a simple biscuit crust, fill them with lemon-flavored mascarpone, and top with an assortment of fresh berries. The tartness of the lemon and the sweetness of the berries are a heavenly match and provide a refreshing finish to any meal.
Wrapping Up
Summer meals should be all about simplicity, freshness, and flavors that make you feel good. Whether you’re dining al fresco or keeping it cool indoors, these recipes will help you make the most of the season’s produce and lazy, hazy summer vibes. Fire up the grill, slice up some fruit, and get ready to enjoy some of the best meals of the year. Happy cooking and happy summer, everyone!
1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Add the onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Push the onions and peppers to the side of the skillet and add the shaved beef. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
4. Once the beef is cooked, mix it with the onions and peppers in the skillet.
5. Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape).
6. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto the wrapper, followed by a strip of Provolone cheese and a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce.
7. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Roll it up tightly, sealing the edges with a bit of water.
8. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
9. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
10. Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
11. Remove the egg rolls from the oil kand place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
12. Serve the cheesesteak egg rolls hot with extra nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious homemade cheesesteak egg rolls!
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork and ground beef.
2. Add the eggs, Italian bread crumbs, 1/2 Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 Tabasco sauce, 1/2 Garlic, 1/2 Slap Ya Mama seasoning, 1/2 black pepper, and 1/2 salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs of your desired size and set aside on a baking sheet or rack and place in the oven on ‘350 for 20-30 mins depending on how big your meatballs are.
4. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat.
5. Stir in the jar of roux until well combined and smooth. When all the clumps are gone stir in your chopped onion, bell pepper and celery and cook down until soft.
6. Add the 2 qts of beef stock and then the rest of your seasonings in.
7. Lets this cook for about an hour or two and stir occasionally. Carefully add the meatballs to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the sauce.
8. Turn your stove to simmer and serve 5-10 after putting in the meatballs.
