15 New Recipes To Try This Summer

simple dishes perfect for summer

Summer cooking hits different. The food feels lighter, brighter, and somehow more fun—like it’s meant to be eaten barefoot on the porch or by a window cracked open to the sound of crickets.

It’s the season of drippy fruit, smoky grills, and chilled dishes that come together fast but feel special. If dinner has been feeling a little tired lately, these fresh, flavor-packed recipes are ready to shake things up.

1. Grilled Peach And Burrata Salad

Grilled Peach And Burrata Salad
© The Last Food Blog

Juicy peaches charred just enough to caramelize meet soft burrata in a dish that tastes like sunshine. A handful of arugula, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and toasted pine nuts bring it all together.

Serve it slightly warm for that perfect mix of creamy, sweet, and smoky.

2. Honey Lime Chicken Skewers

Honey Lime Chicken Skewers
© The Country Cook

Chicken thighs marinated in lime juice, garlic, and honey turn golden and sticky over a hot grill.

The edges crisp up beautifully while the inside stays juicy and full of citrusy flavor. Toss on some bell peppers for extra color and crunch.

3. Watermelon Feta Salsa

Watermelon Feta Salsa
© A Mind “Full” Mom

Sweet watermelon chunks paired with salty feta and chopped mint create the coolest twist on salsa.

A splash of lime and a tiny pinch of chili flakes wake up the whole bowl. Serve with tortilla chips or spoon it over grilled chicken for something extra.

4. Shrimp Tacos With Mango Slaw

Shrimp Tacos With Mango Slaw
© Recipe Runner

Sizzling shrimp seasoned with cumin and paprika meet crunchy mango slaw tucked into warm corn tortillas.

The slaw gets its tang from lime juice and a dollop of yogurt instead of mayo. Finish with a few jalapeños and everything tastes fresh, crisp, and just the right amount of spicy.

5. Summer Corn And Zucchini Fritters

Summer Corn And Zucchini Fritters
© The Heirloom Pantry

Grated zucchini and fresh corn kernels mix into a batter that fries up golden in minutes. A sprinkle of sea salt on top and a dollop of sour cream make them irresistible.

They’re light but filling, perfect for lunch or a late summer snack.

6. Caprese Stuffed Avocados

Caprese Stuffed Avocados
© The Stay At Home Chef

Halved avocados filled with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil make for a fast, no-cook meal.

A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar ties it all together like a salad in a boat. Use a spoon and eat it right from the skin.

7. Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
© Cooking Classy

Salmon fillets rubbed with lemon zest, garlic, and fresh herbs develop a crisp crust on the grill.

The flesh stays soft and flaky with just the right smoky char. Pair it with grilled veggies or a chilled pasta salad for a full summer spread.

8. Cold Sesame Noodle Bowls

Cold Sesame Noodle Bowls
© Tiffy Cooks

Gluten-free noodles tossed in a creamy sesame sauce with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and scallions make a perfect no-heat dinner.

Chill them ahead for a refreshing, nutty bowl that beats takeout. Top with sesame seeds and crushed peanuts for extra crunch.

9. Blackberry Basil Sparkling Lemonade

Blackberry Basil Sparkling Lemonade
© Chasety

Homemade blackberry syrup swirled into fresh lemonade with torn basil leaves and fizzy water makes summer in a glass.

It’s sweet, tart, and smells like a garden. Freeze the blackberries first to keep your drink cold without watering it down.

10. BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Wraps

BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
© How Sweet Eats

Smoky chickpeas cooked in barbecue sauce fill up crisp romaine leaves for a handheld, meatless favorite.

Add sliced red onions, shredded carrots, and a splash of ranch if you like. They’re fun to build and surprisingly filling.

11. Chilled Cucumber Yogurt Soup

Chilled Cucumber Yogurt Soup
© The Kitchn

Blended cucumber, Greek yogurt, dill, and lemon juice come together for a cool, creamy soup that’s ready in minutes.

It’s light, herby, and good for days when cooking feels impossible. Chill it well and serve with crackers or crusty gluten-free bread.

12. Tomato Galette With Fresh Thyme

Tomato Galette With Fresh Thyme
© Playful Cooking

A rustic, flaky crust hugs juicy tomatoes, garlic, and fresh thyme in this free-form pie that looks fancy but feels homemade.

The key is salting the tomatoes first to avoid a soggy bottom. Bake until golden and enjoy warm or cold.

13. No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Cups

No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Cups
© Recipe Runner

Layers of crushed gluten-free cookies, whipped cream cheese, and fresh summer berries make these little cups hard to resist.

They set in the fridge in under an hour and taste like creamy, fruity pie without the oven. Mason jars or teacups make the perfect serving dish.

14. Spicy Grilled Pineapple With Lime

Spicy Grilled Pineapple With Lime
© Carlsbad Cravings

Thick pineapple rings brushed with chili-lime glaze caramelize beautifully over the grill.

The heat hits first, then the fruit cools it down with juicy sweetness. Try it as a side dish, dessert, or even on a burger.

15. Peach Iced Tea Popsicles

Peach Iced Tea Popsicles
© Bigger Bolder Baking

Steeped black tea blended with peach purée and a touch of honey freezes into icy, tea-sweet treats. They’re a smart way to stay cool and cut back on sugar-packed store-bought pops.

Use ripe peaches for the strongest flavor and the prettiest color.