MSN Slideshows

Our 45+ Favorite Recipes to Kick Off the Summer Season

Photo of author

By Renee Gardner

| Published:

Our 45+ Favorite Recipes to Kick Off the Summer Season

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh and easy recipes that take advantage of seasonal ingredients. We’ve gathered over 45 of our favorite new recipes to help you kick off the season right. From light salads to delicious desserts, these dishes are designed to keep you cool and satisfied. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick meal, you’ll find something everyone will love.

Cheesy stuffed shells with spinach and cheese on a wooden table.
Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

California Steak Salad

California steak salad with strawberries and avocados.
California Steak Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

California Steak Salad combines juicy, grilled steak with fresh greens, avocado, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. This flavorful salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It’s a perfect balance of savory and fresh, making it a satisfying summer meal. Enjoy the blend of protein and veggies for a light, nutritious dish.
Get the Recipe: California Steak Salad

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops on a plate with oranges and limes.
Citrus Glazed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops are marinated in a tangy citrus blend and grilled to perfection. Ready in 25 minutes, these chops are tender and juicy with a sweet and sour finish. The citrus glaze enhances the natural flavors of the pork. Serve with your favorite sides for a quick and tasty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Summer Orzo Salad

Summer orzo pasta salad in a while serving bowl on a whitewashed background next to a bowl of green beans.
Summer Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Summer Orzo Salad features orzo pasta mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing. This refreshing dish takes just 20 minutes to make. It’s light, bright, and perfect for hot summer days. Enjoy as a side or a main for a quick, healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa

Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa is a tropical twist on classic steak. This dish, ready in about an hour, combines tender grilled tri-tip with a sweet and spicy salsa. The pineapple and mango add a burst of freshness. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a flavorful combination of marinated chicken and fluffy rice. This dish, taking about 40 minutes, is infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. The chicken is juicy and the rice is aromatic. It’s a great option for a quick and delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia

Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia is a light and healthy meal. In just 30 minutes, enjoy tender tilapia paired with couscous and fresh vegetables. The flavors are simple yet satisfying, perfect for a summer evening. This dish is both nutritious and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Overhead shot of grilled maple mustard chicken.
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken features a sweet and tangy marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. This dish, ready in 30 minutes, offers juicy chicken with a delicious glaze. The combination of maple syrup and mustard creates a balanced flavor. Ideal for a quick summer barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Loaded Bruschetta Recipe

Watermelon and goat cheese crostini - delicious holiday appetizer option.
Loaded Bruschetta Recipe. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Loaded Bruschetta Recipe includes toasted baguette slices topped with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. This appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare and is perfect for entertaining. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve as a starter or a light snack.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Bruschetta Recipe

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream is a tropical dessert perfect for summer. Ready in an hour, it features a tangy key lime filling with a sweet coconut topping. The combination is creamy and refreshing. It’s a delightful end to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream

Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

A stack of three lemon bars on a plate with more lemon bars in the background.
Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust are a classic treat with a zesty twist. These bars, ready in about 45 minutes, feature a buttery shortbread base topped with a tart lemon filling. They are sweet, tangy, and perfect for summer. Enjoy them chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Blackberry Crumble Pie

Overhead shot of blackberry crumble pie with one slice on a serving plate.
Blackberry Crumble Pie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry Crumble Pie combines juicy blackberries with a buttery crumble topping. This dessert, ready in about an hour, is both sweet and slightly tart. The crumble adds a lovely texture to the soft berries. Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a perfect summer treat.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crumble Pie

Blackberry Lime Sorbet

Horizontal image of blackberry lime sorbet in a metal loaf pan on a marble background garnished with frozen blackberries and limes.
Blackberry Lime Sorbet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry Lime Sorbet is a refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for hot days. Ready in about 4 hours, including freezing time, it features fresh blackberries and lime juice. The flavor is vibrant and cooling. Enjoy this sorbet as a light and fruity finish to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Lime Sorbet

Citrus Dream Tart

A plate with Citrus Dream Tart next to slices of grapefruit and blood orange.
Citrus Dream Tart. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Dream Tart is a zesty dessert with a smooth citrus filling and a buttery crust. This tart, ready in about an hour, combines the flavors of lemon, lime, and orange. It’s creamy, tangy, and perfect for summer gatherings. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Dream Tart

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce is a hearty dish that’s easy to make. In about 8 hours, enjoy tender, flavorful pork with a tangy mustard sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy days. Serve with coleslaw or on a sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Dipped Ice Cream Cones with Homemade Magic Shell

Overhead shot of 6 cones, two in chocolate, two peanut butter, two vanilla.
Dipped Ice Cream Cones with Homemade Magic Shell. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Dipped Ice Cream Cones with Homemade Magic Shell are a fun summer treat. Ready in about 15 minutes, these cones feature ice cream dipped in a chocolate shell that hardens instantly. The magic shell adds a crunchy texture. Perfect for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Dipped Ice Cream Cones with Homemade Magic Shell

Peach Crumble Bars

A stack of three peach crumble bars on a black plate.
Peach Crumble Bars. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Peach Crumble Bars combine juicy peaches with a buttery crumble topping. Ready in about 50 minutes, these bars are sweet and satisfying. The peaches add a fresh, fruity flavor. Enjoy them as a dessert or a snack.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crumble Bars

Spiked Lemonade Popsicles

Spiked lemonade popsicles on a marble background next to lemons.
Spiked Lemonade Popsicles. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spiked Lemonade Popsicles are a refreshing adult treat for summer. Ready in about 4 hours, including freezing time, these popsicles combine lemonade with a hint of alcohol. They are tangy, sweet, and perfect for cooling off. Enjoy them at your next summer party.
Get the Recipe: Spiked Lemonade Popsicles

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Two servings of strawberry shortcake on a blue background.
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake features fresh strawberries and fluffy shortcakes. Ready in about an hour, this dessert is sweet and fruity. The combination of strawberries and whipped cream is a classic favorite. Perfect for summer gatherings or a family treat.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon is a flavorful and aromatic dish. Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe combines salmon with a blend of spices and a hint of smokiness from the cedar plank. The result is a tender and delicious meal. Perfect for a special summer dinner.
Get the Recipe: Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

Mini Apple Pies

Mini Apple Pies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Mini Apple Pies are a delightful and portable version of the classic dessert. Ready in about an hour, these pies feature a flaky crust and a sweet apple filling. They are perfect for picnics or parties. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pies

Veggie Couscous Salad

Veggie couscous salad in a white serving bowl on a wooden board.
Veggie Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Veggie Couscous Salad is a light and refreshing dish perfect for summer. Ready in about 20 minutes, it features couscous mixed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. The flavors are bright and satisfying. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Couscous Salad

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled rockfish tacos assembled on a blue board.
Grilled Rockfish Tacos. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Rockfish Tacos are a flavorful and easy summer meal. Ready in about 30 minutes, these tacos feature grilled rockfish, fresh toppings, and a zesty sauce. The combination is light, fresh, and satisfying. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Charcuterie and Cheese Grazing Board

Charcuterie and Cheese Grazing Board. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Charcuterie and Cheese Grazing Board is perfect for entertaining. Ready in about 20 minutes, it features a variety of cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts. The combination of flavors and textures is delightful. It’s a great option for a party appetizer or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie and Cheese Grazing Board

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Overhead shot of shrimp skewers and veggie skewers next to a bowl of dressed grains.
Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl is a nutritious and flavorful dish. Ready in about 25 minutes, it features grilled shrimp, grains, and fresh vegetables. The flavors are light and fresh, making it perfect for a summer meal. Enjoy it as a healthy and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Apple Cinnamon Rolls

A pan of freshly baked and frosted apple cinnamon rolls on a dark blue background.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious and comforting treat. Ready in about 2 hours, these rolls feature a sweet apple filling and a soft, cinnamon-flavored dough. They are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Enjoy them warm from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish. Ready in about 30 minutes, it features tender chicken in a creamy balsamic sauce. The combination of flavors is rich and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp is a sweet and tangy dessert perfect for summer. Ready in about an hour, it features fresh strawberries and rhubarb topped with a crunchy crumble. The flavors are balanced and refreshing. Serve with ice cream for a delightful treat.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

Hands holding a baking dish with Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus.
Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus is a light and healthy meal. Ready in about 25 minutes, it features baked salmon with a lemon dill sauce and roasted asparagus. The flavors are fresh and vibrant. Perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Bone in pork chop topped with hollandaise sauce and shrimp, on a white plate next to green beans.
Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf is a hearty and delicious meal. Ready in about 40 minutes, it features grilled pork chops paired with shrimp. The combination is savory and satisfying. Perfect for a special summer dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Blueberry Ice Cream

An overhead shot of homemade blueberry ice cream in a metal loaf pan next to waffle bowls, spoons, and a cream colored napkin.
Blueberry Ice Cream. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blueberry Ice Cream is a creamy and fruity dessert perfect for summer. Ready in about 4 hours, including freezing time, it features fresh blueberries and a smooth ice cream base. The flavor is sweet and refreshing. Enjoy it as a cool treat on hot days.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Ice Cream

Zucchini Noodle Salad

Zucchini noodle salad on a white square plate with a serving bowl in the background.
Zucchini Noodle Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Zucchini Noodle Salad is a light and healthy dish perfect for summer. Ready in about 20 minutes, it features spiralized zucchini with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. The flavors are crisp and refreshing. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad

Ice Cream Sandwiches with Chocolate Drizzle

Ice cream sandwiches with chocolate drizzle.
Ice Cream Sandwiches with Chocolate Drizzle. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Ice Cream Sandwiches with Chocolate Drizzle are a fun and easy summer treat. Ready in about 15 minutes, these sandwiches feature ice cream between two cookies with a chocolate drizzle. The combination is sweet and satisfying. Perfect for a quick dessert.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Sandwiches with Chocolate Drizzle

Butterscotch Peach Crisp

A slice of peach crumble on a square white plate, with a fork, peach slices, and a blue baking dish filled with more crumble in the background.
Butterscotch Peach Crisp. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Butterscotch Peach Crisp is a delicious and comforting dessert. Ready in about an hour, it features juicy peaches wrapped in a luscious butterscotch sauce under a crunchy crumble topping. The flavors are rich and satisfying. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Butterscotch Peach Crisp

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish. Ready in about 30 minutes, it features tender filet mignon topped with a fresh and tangy sauce. The combination is rich and refreshing. Perfect for a special summer dinner.
Get the Recipe: Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Citrus asparagus couscous in a white bowl next to an orange and lemons.
Citrus Asparagus Couscous. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Asparagus Couscous is a light and refreshing side dish. Ready in about 20 minutes, it features couscous mixed with asparagus and a citrus dressing. The flavors are bright and satisfying. Perfect for a summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous

25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

An up-close shot of bacon-avocado ground beef burger on a flat white surface.
25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger is a hearty and flavorful dish. Ready in just 25 minutes, it features a juicy beef patty topped with crispy bacon and creamy avocado. The combination is rich and satisfying. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

Tomato Burrata Salad

An assembled tomato burrata salad with sliced basil and burrata on a cutting board and a bowl of chopped heirloom tomatoes.
Tomato Burrata Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Tomato Burrata Salad is a fresh and simple dish perfect for summer. Ready in about 10 minutes, it features ripe tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese. The flavors are light and refreshing. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Burrata Salad

Strawberry Crème Brûlée

Close up of strawberry crème brûlée next to a glass of champagne.
Strawberry Crème Brûlée. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Strawberry Crème Brûlée is a rich and creamy dessert with a fruity twist. Ready in about an hour, it features a smooth custard base topped with caramelized sugar and fresh strawberries. The combination is sweet and satisfying. Perfect for a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crème Brûlée

Strawberry Mojito Wine Popsicles

Strawberry mojito wine popsicles on a white plate with strawberries lime and mint leaves.
Strawberry Mojito Wine Popsicles. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Strawberry Mojito Wine Popsicles are a refreshing adult treat for summer. Ready in about 4 hours, including freezing time, these popsicles combine strawberries, mint, and wine. The flavors are vibrant and cooling. Enjoy them at your next summer party.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mojito Wine Popsicles

Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of brown butter garlic mashed potatoes on a table, next to a serving on a plate.
Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a rich and flavorful side dish. Ready in about 30 minutes, they feature creamy potatoes with a hint of brown butter and garlic. The combination is savory and satisfying. Perfect for a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Stuffed shells in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta are a hearty and delicious dish. Ready in about an hour, they feature pasta shells filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture. The flavors are rich and satisfying. Perfect for a comforting dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Screaming Skillet Green Beans

Screaming skillet green beans in a white bowl on a wooden table.
Screaming Skillet Green Beans. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Screaming Skillet Green Beans are a quick and flavorful side dish. Ready in about 15 minutes, they feature green beans sautéed with garlic and spices. The combination is simple and satisfying. Perfect for a quick and healthy addition to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Screaming Skillet Green Beans

Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Crème

Three blackberry pots de creme lined up on a wooden board next to silver spoons.
Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Crème. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Crème are a rich and decadent dessert. Ready in about an hour, they feature creamy white chocolate custard with a blackberry topping. The combination is sweet and luxurious. Perfect for a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Crème

Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles

A homemade coconut popsicle on a wooden surface, with sprinkled coconut flakes.
Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles are a tropical and refreshing summer treat. Ready in about 4 hours, including freezing time, these popsicles combine pineapple, coconut, and a hint of wine. The flavors are vibrant and cooling. Enjoy them at your next summer party.
Get the Recipe: Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

An overhead shot of a wooden serving bowl filled with salad next to cornbread on a cutting board.
Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad is a flavorful and hearty dish. Ready in about 30 minutes, it features tender chicken, fresh greens, and a tangy BBQ dressing. The combination is rich and satisfying. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers

Overhead shot of a blackberry lime tart on a white plate surrounded by edible flowers.
Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers is a beautiful and refreshing dessert. Ready in about an hour, it features a tangy lime filling with fresh blackberries and edible flowers. The combination is vibrant and delightful. Perfect for a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers

Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes

Pineapple Ice Cream Cake on a white plate next to a pool of sauce.
Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes are a fun and tropical treat perfect for summer. Ready in about 4 hours, including freezing time, they feature layers of pineapple and creamy ice cream. The flavors are sweet and refreshing. Enjoy them as a cool and delightful dessert.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.