As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, we start to crave the refreshing and vibrant flavors of summer. Whether you’re planning a family barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a dinner with friends, there are certain summer recipes everyone should have in their culinary repertoire.
From a juicy, tender pulled pork dish to a thirst-quenching beverage, here are some of the best summer recipes you should know how to make.
1. Slow-cooker pulled pork
Pulled pork is a summer favorite that can feed a crowd with minimal effort, thanks to your slow cooker. If you’re looking for a tried and tested recipe that will blow yru tastebuds away, this BBQ pulled pork recipe is ideal, or you can simply begin by seasoning a boneless pork shoulder with a mix of brown sugar, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place the pork in a slow cooker with some diced onions, minced garlic, and your favorite barbecue sauce. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the meat is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Once done, you can use two forks to pull apart the pork. Serve it on a bun with some tangy coleslaw for a delicious, satisfying meal.
2. Fresh summer salad
A fresh summer salad is the perfect accompaniment to any meal, or it can be a meal in itself. Choose a variety of colorful, ripe summer vegetables – think tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, and corn. Add some mixed greens and a protein of your choice, like grilled chicken, tofu, or beans. Toss it all together with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add some fresh herbs and feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Grilled vegetable skewers
Grilled vegetable skewers are a versatile summer staple that can be customized to your liking. Choose your favorite summer veggies, such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. Cut them into even pieces, marinate them in olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs, then thread them onto skewers. Grill until tender and slightly charred. They make a delicious side dish or a vegetarian main course.
4. Classic lemonade
No summer is complete without a refreshing glass of something homemade, and lemonade is a classic. Start by making a simple syrup by heating equal parts sugar and water until the sugar is dissolved. In a pitcher, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, the simple syrup, and cold water to taste. Adjust the sweetness or tartness as needed. Serve over ice with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon.
5. Summer fruit tart
Round off a summer meal with a beautiful and tasty summer fruit tart. Begin with a sweet tart crust filled with a creamy custard. Top it with an array of vibrant summer fruits like berries, peaches, or kiwi. For a shiny finish, you can brush the fruit with a bit of warmed apricot jam. It’s a delightful dessert that showcases the best of summer’s sweet produce.
Related Posts
6. Caprese skewers
Caprese skewers are a fun, portable take on the classic Italian salad. Skewer a cherry tomato, a piece of mozzarella cheese, and a fresh basil leaf on a toothpick. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. These skewers are a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make appetizer for any summer gathering.
7. Grilled shrimp tacos
Grilled shrimp tacos are a fantastic summer meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Marinate shrimp in a blend of garlic, chili, lime, and cilantro, then grill to perfection. Serve them on soft tortillas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime.
8. Homemade salsa and guacamole
Nothing says summer like a vibrant, freshly made salsa or guacamole. For the salsa, combine diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. For the guacamole, mash ripe avocados and mix with chopped onion, cilantro, diced tomatoes, splash of lime juice, and salt to taste. Both are perfect for serving with chips as a snack or an appetizer.
9. Fresh berry parfaits
For a light dessert or a fancy breakfast, fresh berry parfaits are the way to go. Layer fresh summer berries with Greek yogurt and granola in a glass. You can add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
Learning how to prepare these summer recipes will ensure you’re ready to enjoy the season to its fullest. Enjoy them in your backyard, at a beach picnic, or an indoor brunch. The tastes and smells of these dishes will evoke memories of sunny days and warm nights, making your culinary summer moments even more enjoyable.
