As the temperature rises and summer vibes kick into high gear, there’s nothing quite like a light, refreshing meal to beat the heat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a quick and easy dinner solution, these 20 July recipes are sure to hit the spot. From savory skewers to sweet treats, we’ve rounded up the perfect lineup of dishes that incorporate the freshest summer flavors.
Get ready to dive into a world of juicy peaches, succulent shrimp, and tangy tomatoes – all expertly paired with creamy burrata, crunchy cucumber, and zesty lemon. And don’t even get us started on the sweet treats! From rich and creamy chia seed pudding to chilled gazpacho and blackberry goat cheese crostini, we’ve got you covered.
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the flavors of grilled peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and fresh herbs for a perfect summer side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach wedges for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
3. Slice burrata cheese into rounds.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
5. Arrange grilled peaches on a platter or individual plates.
6. Top with burrata cheese, drizzling with the olive-balsamic mixture.
7. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Watermelon Feta Mint Skewers
Perfect for hot summer days, these bite-sized skewers combine the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese and the freshness of mint. A simple and elegant appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe watermelon, cubed
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Wooden skewers (10-12)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a piece of watermelon, followed by a chunk of feta cheese and a sprig of mint onto each skewer.
3. Repeat the pattern until all ingredients are used up, leaving a small space at the end.
4. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt to taste.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the feta is slightly melted and the watermelon is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Cold Cucumber Avocado Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing cold soup that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the light and crisp flavor of cucumber. Perfect for a summer evening or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the avocado and place it in a blender with the cucumber, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Blend time: 2-3 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your summer gatherings with these succulent shrimp skewers infused with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wooden skewers, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Berry Chia Seed Pudding
This recipe creates a nutritious and delicious dessert or snack by combining the health benefits of chia seeds with the natural sweetness of berries. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to thicken.
3. Just before serving, stir in the mixed berries and a pinch of salt.
4. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this classic Italian-inspired dish featuring fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon tomato mixture onto bread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around each slice.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top of each bruschetta.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and toppings are heated through.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your summer grilling game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of grilled corn with a zesty kick from chili lime butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lime juice, and chili flakes until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the corn ears with the chili lime butter.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
5. Remove from grill and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mango Coconut Smoothie Bowl
Revitalize your senses with this tropical blend of juicy mango, creamy coconut, and crunchy granola. This refreshing smoothie bowl is perfect for a hot summer day or as a healthy breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: granola, toasted almonds, shredded coconut, and a sprinkle of lime zest
Instructions:
1. Combine mango, pineapple, unsweetened coconut, and banana in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, adding honey to taste.
3. Pour into a bowl and top with coconut milk, granola, and desired toppings.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snacking game with this creative take on the classic Caprese salad, featuring creamy avocados as the vessel for fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a small bowl, combine cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
3. Spoon the tomato-mozzarella mixture into the avocado halves.
4. Top each avocado with chopped basil leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with olive oil, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in a flash!)
Enjoy your Caprese Stuffed Avocados as a light and satisfying snack or appetizer!
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Kebabs
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Kebabs Recipe
A sweet and savory twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines juicy chicken with the flavors of pineapple and teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add chicken and pineapple chunks to the marinade; toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional teriyaki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
A simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the best of summer’s bounty: tender zucchini, smoky from the grill and topped with nutty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush zucchinis with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Grill zucchinis for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Remove from grill and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Garnish with parsley leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A sweet and savory twist on the classic green salad, this refreshing recipe combines juicy strawberries with crisp spinach and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped nuts over the salad.
3. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad, tossing gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional strawberry slices if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: None
– Total time: 10 minutes
Spicy Mango Salsa with Cinnamon Chips
This sweet and spicy salsa pairs perfectly with crunchy cinnamon chips for a unique snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
– 1 bag of cinnamon chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in honey until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve salsa with cinnamon chips for a sweet and spicy treat.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
These refreshing bars combine the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a creamy cheesecake package. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into prepared dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Stir in blueberries and lemon juice.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Potato Salad with Dijon Mustard
Elevate your potato salad game with the perfect blend of herbs and tangy Dijon mustard. This refreshing side dish is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled potatoes, parsley, dill, garlic, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Stir in lemon juice.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (boiling time)
Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Slaw
Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Slaw: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tacos!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi), cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango Slaw ingredients:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Pour over fish pieces and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare Mango Slaw by combining mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled fish onto warmed tortillas and topping with Mango Slaw.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peach Basil Iced Tea
This sweet and savory tea combines the flavors of ripe peaches and fresh basil, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (or to taste)
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bags and add the sliced peaches. Let it steep for another 10-15 minutes, or until the peaches have lost some of their flavor.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher. Discard the peaches.
4. Add the fresh basil leaves to the tea and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
5. Just before serving, add honey to taste (if desired).
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Chilled Gazpacho with Fresh Herbs
Escape the heat with this revitalizing chilled gazpacho, infused with the brightness of fresh herbs. This Spanish-inspired soup is a perfect way to beat the summer sun.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Ice cubes (for chilling)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, parsley, basil, cilantro, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, then stir in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add water or broth and blend until combined.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Blackberry Goat Cheese Crostini
These sweet and savory bites are perfect for a dinner party or a quick snack. Fresh blackberries and tangy goat cheese come together to create a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Top each slice with a dollop of goat cheese, a few blackberries, and a drizzle of honey.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these 20 refreshing recipes! From light and fruity salads like Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad, to cooling soups like Cold Cucumber Avocado Soup, there’s something for everyone. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Berry Chia Seed Pudding or indulge in savory delights like Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers and Caprese Stuffed Avocados. Whatever the occasion, these recipes are sure to be a hit.
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