7 Amazing Easy Recipes for Dinner in Summer

Introduction

Hey Sunshines!

Are you ready to beat the summer heat and enjoy some delicious meals? Look no further because I’ve got you covered with these refreshing and mouthwatering dinner ideas for hot summer nights. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to whip up a quick and easy meal for your family, these recipes are perfect for any occasion. So grab your apron and let’s dive into these delightful dishes that will keep you cool and satisfied all summer long!

Recipe 1: Open-Faced Sandwich with Shrimp

Looking for a light and flavorful dish that’s packed with protein? Try this scrumptious open-faced sandwich with shrimp. It’s the perfect combination of juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing, all piled high on a crispy slice of bread. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices of whole grain bread
• 1 cup of mixed salad greens
• 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the shrimp, salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Toast the slices of bread until golden brown.
4. Place a generous amount of the shrimp mixture on each slice of bread.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the top.
6. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe 2: Open-Faced Avocado Toast

Avocado toast has become a staple in many households, and for a good reason! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. This open-faced avocado toast recipe takes things up a notch by adding some extra flavors and textures. Get ready to indulge in this creamy and satisfying dish:

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 4 slices of whole wheat bread
• 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sliced cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
2. Add the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
3. Mash the avocado mixture with a fork until smooth and well combined.
4. Toast the slices of bread until they’re nice and crispy.
5. Spread a generous amount of the avocado mixture onto each slice of bread.
6. Add your desired toppings, such as sliced cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, or fresh basil leaves.
7. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
8. Serve and savor every bite!

Recipe 3: Fruit Skewers with Honey

When it comes to summer desserts, it doesn’t get much simpler or more refreshing than fruit skewers with honey. This colorful and sweet treat is perfect for those hot summer nights when you crave something light and fruity. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• Assorted fruits of your choice (such as watermelon, pineapple, strawberries, and grapes)
• Wooden skewers
• Honey for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Wash and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thread the fruit pieces onto the wooden skewers, alternating between different fruits to create a colorful pattern.
3. Place the fruit skewers on a platter or serving dish.
4. Drizzle honey over the skewers, ensuring each piece of fruit gets a touch of sweetness.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors!

Recipe 4: Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers

Looking to add some sizzle to your summer dinner? These grilled chicken and veggie skewers are a crowd-pleaser! With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy marinade, these skewers are bursting with flavor. Fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with this fantastic dish:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, making sure they’re well coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
5. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve the skewers hot off the grill and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors!

Recipe 5: Caprese Pasta Salad

A pasta salad is a fantastic choice for a summer dinner because it’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavors. This Caprese pasta salad takes inspiration from the classic Caprese salad, combining fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and balsamic dressing. It’s the perfect side dish or even a main course for those warm summer nights. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of fusilli pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and torn basil leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
5. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve and enjoy this delightful and satisfying summer pasta salad!

Recipe 6: Grilled Corn on the Cob

When summer rolls around, one of the most beloved vegetables is undoubtedly corn on the cob. Grilling corn enhances its flavors and gives it a delicious smoky taste. This simple yet satisfying recipe for grilled corn on the cob will be a hit at your summer gatherings:

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husks removed
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush each ear of corn with melted butter, ensuring they’re well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and close the lid.
5. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally

Once the corn is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes. You can serve the grilled corn on the cob as is or get creative with toppings. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for a savory twist, or add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Squeezing a lime wedge over the corn will give it a tangy kick that complements the smokiness perfectly.

Recipe 7: Watermelon and Feta Salad

No summer dinner is complete without a refreshing and vibrant salad. This watermelon and feta salad is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors that will leave you craving more. It’s incredibly easy to make and looks stunning on the dinner table. Here’s how you can create this delicious salad:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of cubed watermelon
• 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup of sliced red onion
• 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, torn mint leaves, and sliced red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss to coat.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve this refreshing salad as a side dish or even as a light summer appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for the open-faced sandwich recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for the recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

Q: Can I substitute the avocado in the open-faced avocado toast recipe?

A: If you’re not a fan of avocado or don’t have any on hand, you can try using mashed peas, hummus, or even sliced tomatoes as a delicious alternative.

Q: How long can I keep the fruit skewers with honey in the refrigerator?

A: The fruit skewers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume them within a few hours of assembling.

Q: Can I grill the chicken and veggie skewers on a stovetop grill pan?

A: Absolutely! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works just as well. Simply preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the skewers following the same instructions.

Q: Can I make the Caprese pasta salad in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the Caprese pasta salad a few hours ahead of time. Just make sure to refrigerate it and give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Q: How can I add a spicy kick to the grilled corn on the cob?

A: If you prefer a spicy flavor, you can sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper on the melted butter-coated corn before grilling.

Conclusion

There you have it, Sunshines! Seven fantastic dinner ideas for hot summer nights that are sure to impress your family and friends. From the mouthwatering open-faced sandwich with shrimp to the refreshing watermelon and feta salad, these recipes offer a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for beating the summer heat. So don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy these delicious dishes all season long.

Much Love & Sunshines!