Summer is a great time to experiment with seasonal ingredients and lighter dishes that are perfect for eating al fresco. Life tends to slow down in the summer, and with the kids out of school, it can be the ideal time of year to get in some quality time around the dinner table. Check out this list of 10 family-friendly summer dinner recipes to make this season.
1. Chicken With Summer Vegetables
This easy “sheet pan dinner” from Cooking Crossroads features tons of fresh ingredients common in Mediterranean cuisine, including olives, lemon and oregano. It takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Summer Steak Salad
Salad is always a go-to when you’re looking for lighter fare, but the ribeye in this one ensures it’s hearty enough to serve as a dinner entree. The recipe from The Whole Smiths is also Whole 30 and paleo-compliant.
3. Easy Summer Pasta Salad
Nothing says summer like a cold pasta salad chock-full of veggies, and this recipe from Two Peas & Their Pod features feta cheese and fresh basil for a uniquely satisfying flavor profile.
4. Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Low-carb and flavor-filled, these yummy stuffed zucchini boats would be great served with a simple side salad or all on their own. Get the recipe from Crazy for Crust.
5. Homemade Grilled Pizza
Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser, but skip delivery and sling this pie on the grill for a summery take on traditional pizza from Citrus and Delicious.
6. Avocado Chicken Salad
Chicken salad sandwiches are a filling option for those hot summer days when you can’t stand to turn on the oven. This avocado chicken salad from Family Fresh Meals goes great on pretzel rolls, and leftovers make for a yummy lunch the next day.
7. Sweet Corn And Crab Salad
Sweet corn is one of summer’s best treats, and it really shines in this cold crab salad that also features jalapeno for a bit of a kick. This light and fresh recipe from Garlic and Zest can work as an appetizer or a main entree.
8. Classic Burgers
There is no more quintessential summer food than a juicy burger fresh from the grill, and this recipe for a classic burger from Hip Foodie Mom will become your new go-to. Pair it with some chips and dinner is served!
9. Sweet Crock Pot Pulled Pork
You may think that good barbecue pulled pork requires smoking the meat for hours, but this crock pot recipe from Homemade Hooplah gives you all of the flavor while still allowing you to set it and forget it.
10. Perfect And Simple Grilled Fish Fillets
If you’re tired of the same old hot dogs and hamburgers but still want to utilize the grill, these basic white fish fillets from Bless this Mess will elevate your grill game while still requiring little preparation. Serve alongside seasonal grilled vegetables for a light, yet filling meal.
