Each summer I like to make easy, light meals that allow us to enjoy more time frolicking at the pool or hanging out on the deck, and this summer is no different.
While we were away at the beach for most of July, we spent most of June soaking in the sun and plan to do the same in August before school starts. These recipes have been in heavy rotation this season- each is as easy and delicious as the next, ones I am sure you’ll enjoy too.
Appetizers
Spicy Black Bean Salsa & Pita Chips– Fresh ingredients are best and this salsa packs a punch with a mixture of corn, cilantro, black beans, tomato, avocado, and simple herbs! It’s great with homemade pita chips, tortilla chips, or by the spoonful on its own!
Charcuterie Board– When in doubt, I will throw together a small, simple charcuterie board that often features a selection of 2-3 meats (always prosciutto, often salami and soppressata, 2 kinds of cheese (one hard, one soft), olives, apple slices, fig jam, and crackers or baguette bread.
The Only Bean Dip You’ll Ever Need by Giada De Laurentiis in Happy Cooking– Light and packed with a creamy taste, this bean dip marries cannellini beans, chickpeas, and mascarpone cheese with lemon, and is a fresh alternative to hummus. Sliced cucumbers, carrots, and peppers are great for dipping, as are tortilla chips!
Lunch
Fresh Corn and Zucchini Saute– I lean hard into vegetables in the summer and this recipe is an indulgent mix of two summer staples. It’s perfect when paired with a grilled steak, on a salad, or even mixed with scrambled eggs and in a flour tortilla for breakfast.
Easy Summer Pasta Salad– This is quick to assemble and large enough to take to an outdoor potluck. It mixes tomatoes, zucchini, corn, and peppers with pasta and feta cheese. If you like a heartier flavor, crumbled goat cheese kicks it up a notch!
Dinner
Summer Spaghetti with Tomatoes, Burrata, & Basil– Hands down my favorite pasta recipe of summer, especially if we’re entertaining! The fresh basil pulls together the tomatoes, garlic, and pasta with the creamy burrata, that every bite is perfetto! It makes a large batch, so it’s perfect for a family meal or entertaining a small crowd. Also, it pairs well with a crisp white wine and a simple charcuterie board!
One Pan Salmon with Broccoli and Cauliflower– This is so easy to pull together and so, so delicious. It only takes 12 minutes in the oven and you can change up the seasonings to your liking!
Dessert
Fluffy Key Lime Pie– This dessert is light, delicious, and very easy to assemble. The only negative is that it won’t hold up in the heat, so keep it prepped and in the AC where it won’t melt or sweat.
Ice Cream Bar– The easiest, most satisfying dessert, especially for little kids is ice cream! Add to the fun and gather a few toppings, cones, and syrups for an easy ice cream bar where everyone can help themselves.