You don’t have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition just because the sun is shining brightly outside. Summer can be a challenging time for cooking lunch, especially during peak hours when the heat makes even simple tasks feel daunting. Fortunately, we’ve got some refreshing and easy-to-make ideas that will make you look forward to your midday meal.
With these summer lunch ideas, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – delicious flavors and nutritious ingredients – without having to spend too much time in the kitchen. Whether it’s a cool and creamy cucumber sandwich or a vibrant veg-packed salad, there’s something for everyone. What’s more, these recipes are incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for hot summer days when you just want to relax.
Cobb Salad with the Best Dressing
Nothing screams summer like a refreshing cobb salad that’s both cooling and satisfying. This protein-rich salad is packed with an array of delicious ingredients, including juicy chicken, crispy bacon, boiled eggs that add a delightful texture, and tangy blue cheese. The real magic happens when you combine these flavors with a remarkable dressing made from a perfect blend of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard, elevating each bite to new heights.
Veggie and Hummus Sandwich
Jumping straight into the delicious world of veggie-friendly lunches, these sandwiches are a game-changer. A flavorful sandwich is always a winner at any time of day, and when packed with an assortment of fresh veggies, tangy cheese, and creamy hummus, it’s almost impossible to resist! Whether you’re in the mood for something light and healthy or looking for a more indulgent treat, pairing this sandwich with a side of chips, fries, or salad will satisfy your cravings perfectly. Yum!
Chickpea Salad
Finding the perfect balance between healthy and quick can be challenging, especially when it comes to lunchtime. Fortunately, this delectable chickpea salad is here to save the day. Featuring a medley of cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese, all perfectly complemented by a zesty lemon dressing, this recipe is a match made in heaven.
Not only does it boast an impressive serving of protein-rich chickpeas, but its preparation time is also remarkably swift, taking no more than 10 minutes to whip up. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on-the-go, this salad is sure to become your go-to solution for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Italian Chicken Burgers
Perhaps the ultimate comfort food, these Italian chicken burgers are sure to hit the spot every time you’re feeling super hungry. Imagine a cross between a juicy burger and a classic cheesy chicken parmesan – it’s a match made in heaven! This recipe is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for those busy days when you need a filling lunch with minimal effort required.
Simply mix together tasty chicken patties, simmer them in marinara sauce, and top with melted mozzarella cheese for a dish that’s ridiculously easy to prepare.
Grilled Vegetable Pizza
Warm weather is the perfect excuse to make the most of summer produce, and what better way to do that than with a delicious grilled vegetable pizza? With this recipe, you can top your pizza with all your favorite summer veggies and enjoy a flavorful meal without heating up your kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make, making it a great option for busy days when you need a fast and healthy dinner solution.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love eating their daily dose of veggies on a tasty pizza? It’s a genius way to get even the pickiest eaters to consume their recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables!
Shrimp Po Boys Sandwich
Zeroing in on the perfect beach lunch, it’s essential to include some delicious seafood options, and these mouth-watering shrimp po’ boys are an absolute must-have. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or taking a dip in the ocean, a refreshing seafood meal will elevate your seaside experience. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy and spicy sauce, crunchy cabbage, and soft roll is a winning formula that’s sure to knock your socks off.
Go ahead and treat yourself to this delectable delight, perfect for a beachside picnic or casual lunch gathering.
The BEST Homemade Sloppy Joes
Zero in on a hearty meal with our homemade sloppy Joes, an indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. The sweet and savory flavors meld together in perfect harmony, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more. These generous sandwiches are designed to please both kids and adults alike, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings or casual meals at home.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or just want something easy to devour, our sloppy Joes are impossible to resist.
Classic Chicken Salad
Everyone’s favorite picnic treat is a classic chicken salad, whether served on its own or as a sandwich filling. Its cold, creamy texture and hearty flavor make it the perfect midday meal to enjoy during the summer months when the heat can be overwhelming. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s a great way to repurpose leftover chicken, reducing food waste in the process.
Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it to your taste by adding ingredients like grapes or dried cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or just want to mix things up with a familiar favorite, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Loaded Tater Tot Nachos
Versatile and indulgent, these loaded tater tot nachos offer the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal or as a delectable accompaniment to your homemade tacos. The combination of crispy tater tots smothered in melted cheddar cheese and bacon provides an irresistible base that can be elevated with a variety of toppings. Feel free to get creative with your choices, as sliced green onion, chopped tomatoes, and fresh sour cream make for especially delightful combinations.
For those who like a little heat, adding some jalapenos will certainly provide a kick, while allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Nectarine Summer Salad with Shredded Chicken
A refreshing summer salad that’s perfect for the warmest months is bursting with fruity goodness. It’s ideal to enjoy under the shade of a tree or in a lush garden. And it’s absolutely loaded with tasty ingredients. A base of shredded chicken and fresh greens is topped with an abundance of fresh veggies and herbs, including spring peas, avocado, cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh mint, and basil.
Butter Burger
Zest up your lunch routine by indulging in these rich and satisfying butter-soaked burgers. The combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, and generous amounts of butter creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s sure to hit the spot. And don’t worry about guilty feelings – these decadent treats are perfect for a special occasion or cheat day. The patty is seared in butter to achieve a delightful crispy edge, balancing out the tender interior.
Healthy Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
Looking for a delicious and nutritious lunch option that’s bursting with flavor? This zucchini noodles with shrimp scampi recipe is an excellent choice if you’re on the lookout for ways to incorporate more veggies into your diet. The best part? It’s incredibly light and refreshing, making it perfect for those sweltering summer days when a heavy meal just won’t do.
By substituting traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, this dish offers a fantastic low-carb alternative that you’re sure to love, minus the guilt of missing out on the carbs.
Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
Just when you thought salads couldn’t get any better, this apple, pecan, and chicken recipe will blow your mind. It’s an excellent way to maintain a healthy summer diet as it incorporates nutritious ingredients like apples, pecans, rosemary, dried cranberries, and lean chicken. The magic behind this salad lies in its simple yet flavorful homemade dressing that elevates the entire dish to new heights. By combining these key components, you’ll be treated to a truly mouthwatering experience.
For an even more satisfying meal, try loading this delectable salad onto toasted sliced whole-grain bread.
Grilled Vegetable Quesadillas
Nothing says summer like a delicious and healthy quesadilla, packed with roasted vegetables, melted mozzarella cheese, and a tangy layer of homemade or store-bought pesto. The combination may sound simple, but trust us, it’s absolutely perfect! If you want to take your quesadillas to the next level, making the pesto from scratch is definitely worth the extra effort – it adds an unparalleled depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Achieving the perfect summer lunch is just a step away with these delightful stuffed zucchini boats. They offer an effortless way to relish the freshness of summertime squash, making them an ideal choice for hot days. The best part? You can load them up with your favorite ingredients, giving you endless possibilities.
Adding a combination of lemon zest, fresh thyme, and Parmesan cheese to the boat filling will undoubtedly elevate the flavor experience, resulting in a truly delectable treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies
Often touted as a classic comfort food, pasta dishes have the power to transport us to a world of pure delight. For those who adore pasta, this three-cheese tortellini is sure to become an instant favorite. Its vibrant flavors and textures will leave you feeling satisfied and eager for more. The combination of fresh summer vegetables such as zucchini and squash adds a pop of color and freshness that’s perfect for the warmest months.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Pigs in a Blanket (with Cheese!)
Lighten up your lunch routine by whipping up these pigs in a blanket – they’re a fun, easy-to-make finger food that kids love! To make them, simply wrap hot dogs and American cheese in pastry and bake until golden brown. Don’t forget to have some ketchup and mustard on hand for dipping – it’s the perfect accompaniment to these tasty treats!
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Tantalize your taste buds with this refreshing and zesty cucumber, tomato, and avocado salad that’s perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado are the main ingredients smothered in a tangy lemon dressing, topped off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The result is a deliciously balanced flavor combination that will leave you wanting more. Simply throw all the ingredients together and serve – it’s as easy as that! Go to Recipe
Avocado Salad
Often, people who love avocados are looking for new ways to incorporate them into their diet. One delicious and easy option is a veggie-loaded avocado salad that’s not only packed with nutrients but also tastes amazing. This salad is perfect as a standalone meal or served alongside grilled chicken or a veggie frittata, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals who want to add more veggies to their daily diet.
Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Gathering inspiration from the classic Italian salad, Caprese sandwiches offer a refreshing twist on a sweltering hot day. Not only are they light and filling, but this particular version also boasts an added protein boost with grilled chicken breasts. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and rich pesto, all nestled within a crusty ciabatta roll, creates a truly unbeatable flavor profile.
Arby’s Chicken Salad Sandwich
Kick off your summer with a delicious homemade chicken salad sandwich that rivals the ones from popular fast-food chains like Arby’s. No need to leave the comfort of your home when you can whip up a mouth-watering meal in minutes.
This heavenly sandwich is packed with juicy chicken, crisp apples, plump grapes, and crunchy pecans – a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors that will leave you craving for more. The best part?
You can make it all from the convenience of your own kitchen!
Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Need a satisfying and delicious vegetarian option that’s perfect for the warm weather? This smashed chickpea salad sandwich is an excellent choice, ideal for a quick and easy lunch during the summer months. One of its best features is how simple it is to prepare – just whip up the ingredients and you’re good to go! The flavors also tend to meld together even better after a day or two, making it a great candidate for meal prep.
Imagine enjoying this tasty sandwich outdoors on a sunny afternoon, surrounded by nature’s beauty – it’s a lovely way to unwind and recharge!
Grilled Chicken Fajitas
Make mealtime more memorable by incorporating these vibrant grilled chicken fajitas into your repertoire! They boast an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures, making them a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Most people are familiar with traditional grilled meats, but it’s time to take your outdoor cooking game up a notch by experimenting with different marinades and seasoning blends.
In this case, we’re using juicy chicken breast paired with an assortment of colorful vegetables, all carefully arranged within the confines of a crispy flour tortilla. To elevate these already-delicious fajitas, top them off with a refreshing dollop of fruity salsa and a sprinkle of creamy crema. The perfect accompaniment to any summer gathering, these bright fajitas are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Gather everyone around the grill and make it a day to remember by cooking up a batch (or two!) of these mouth-watering grilled chicken fajitas.
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Tucked away in this delightful dill pickle pasta salad recipe are a multitude of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This tangy and delicious dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings, such as backyard barbecues or potlucks, where it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It requires only a few simple ingredients, most of which are likely already stocked in your pantry, making it an effortless addition to any summer meal lineup.
Whether you’re feeding a large group or just need a quick and easy lunch, this dill pickle pasta salad recipe has got you covered.
Jalapeno Popper Corn Salad
Often, when it comes to summer gatherings and cookouts, people tend to overlook the sides in favor of the main course. However, a well-crafted side dish can be just as impressive and delicious as the grilled meats that are often the focal point of these events. One such side dish that consistently steals the show is this jalapeno popper corn salad, which is perfectly suited for summertime cookouts.
During the warmer months, there’s no better time to fire up the grill and invite friends and family over for a casual get-together. The combination of flavors and textures in this corn salad is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters, making it an ideal side dish to please a crowd.
One-Pot Cheesy Taco Skillet
Making the most of your budget can be challenging, especially when it comes to meal planning. However, this one-pot cheesy taco skillet is an excellent option for those times when you’re on a tight budget. Packed with low-cost ingredients such as vegetables, beef taco flavor, and melted cheese, you can easily whip up a delicious meal without breaking the bank. The best part? You can even incorporate leftover ingredients to make it an even more cost-effective option.
To take it to the next level, top this taco skillet with a Mexican cheese blend, a dollop of sour cream, some spicy salsa, and creamy guacamole. Serve it up with a fork or indulge in it with crispy tortilla chips – either way, it’s sure to be a hit! With its simplicity and flavor, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
30 Summer Lunch Ideas (+ Easy Recipes)
Gather some inspiration for your next summer meal from our top picks: delectable sandwiches, fresh salads, and mouth-watering fajitas that are perfect for a light and easy lunch. With these summer lunch ideas, you’ll be able to create something delicious every time.
Instructions
Choose a delicious summer recipe that catches your eye. Next, gather all the necessary ingredients and make sure they are within reach. With some quick planning and efficient prep work, you can prepare a refreshing summer lunch in 30 minutes or less.
