Finding summer mains that everyone enjoys can be a challenge, especially with picky eaters in the mix. These 17 recipes are packed with simple, delicious flavors that will have even the fussiest eaters coming back for more. Whether you’re grilling, slow cooking, or whipping up a quick salad, there’s something here for everyone

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

This recipe features tender chicken paired with cilantro-lime-infused rice, creating a zesty and refreshing combination. It takes 30 minutes to make, with flavors of lime, cilantro, and garlic that pack a bright, savory punch. The rice is fluffy and perfectly seasoned, complementing the juicy chicken beautifully. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have picky eaters asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

This 25-minute burger marries juicy ground beef patties with creamy avocado and crispy bacon. The savory and smoky flavors are perfectly balanced with a touch of freshness from the avocado. The result is a burger that’s both hearty and satisfying. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a burger that will win over even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia

This recipe brings together flaky tilapia and light, fluffy couscous packed with summer vegetables. In 25 minutes, you’ll have a light yet filling meal that blends the mild fish with the fresh, vibrant flavors of zucchini, tomatoes, and lemon. The couscous provides a delightful base, absorbing all the juices and flavors. It’s a wholesome and refreshing choice for a summer evening.
Get the Recipe: Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken delivers a mouthwatering blend of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard. This quick 20-minute dish offers a deliciously caramelized glaze that coats each juicy chicken breast. The grilling adds a smoky depth that elevates the flavors further. It’s perfect for summer cookouts or a quick family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

These 30-minute pork chops are a delightful mix of sweet and tangy, thanks to a citrus glaze made with orange and lemon juices. The chops are tender and juicy, perfectly complementing the bright and zesty glaze. A hint of honey adds sweetness that rounds out the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad or grilled vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

California Steak Salad

This salad combines juicy steak with the freshness of mixed greens, avocados, and cherry tomatoes. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and filling meal that’s light yet hearty. The steak is seasoned perfectly, providing a savory punch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy avocado. Topped with a tangy vinaigrette, it’s a summer salad that hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: California Steak Salad

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

This slow-cooked pork shoulder becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours in the slow cooker. Coated in a tangy mustard BBQ sauce, the pork is both flavorful and succulent. The 8-hour cook time ensures each bite is packed with rich, smoky flavor. Serve it on rolls for sliders that will be the hit of any summer gathering.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

This salad features tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy Carolina-style BBQ sauce, served over a bed of greens. In 20 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing mix of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Topped with crunchy cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch dressing, it’s a satisfying salad for a warm summer day. The BBQ sauce adds a flavorful kick that keeps picky eaters coming back.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

These grilled rockfish tacos deliver flaky, lightly spiced fish in warm tortillas. In 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal with vibrant toppings like avocado, red cabbage, and a zesty lime crema. The fish has a mild, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh toppings. Serve them with lime wedges for a taco experience that will have everyone asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus is a 20-minute meal combining tender salmon and roasted asparagus with bright citrus and dill flavors. The salmon is flaky and perfectly cooked, offering a delightful contrast to the crisp asparagus. A drizzle of lemon juice adds a refreshing tang that ties it all together. This easy, healthy dish is ideal for a quick summer dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

This cedar plank salmon infuses the fish with a subtle smoky flavor, complemented by warm garam masala spices. In 30 minutes, you’ll have a perfectly cooked salmon that’s both tender and flavorful. The cedar plank adds a distinctive, earthy aroma that enhances the spices beautifully. Serve it with rice or salad for a summer meal that will impress everyone.
Get the Recipe: Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

This recipe pairs juicy grilled pork chops with succulent shrimp for a hearty surf and turf. In 30 minutes, you’ll have a savory combination that’s both filling and flavorful. The pork chops are seasoned with a simple spice rub, while the shrimp adds a hint of sweetness. It’s a perfect choice for those who love the best of both worlds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa

Tri-tip is grilled to perfection and served with a bright pineapple mango salsa in this 30-minute recipe. The salsa provides a sweet and spicy contrast to the savory, smoky beef. Red pepper adds a subtle heat that ties the flavors together beautifully. It’s a refreshing take on steak that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Grilled shrimp tops this vibrant grain bowl, filled with quinoa, fresh veggies, and a tangy vinaigrette. In 30 minutes, you’ll have a bowl packed with flavor and texture, from the smoky shrimp to the crunchy vegetables. The quinoa provides a hearty base, while avocado and cucumber add creaminess and crunch. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that picky eaters will love.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

This 45-minute dish combines jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and spinach. The shells are topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, creating a hearty, cheesy delight. The filling is rich and comforting, with a subtle hint of garlic and nutmeg. It’s a perfect family meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

This skillet dish features tender chicken in a creamy balsamic sauce, ready in just 30 minutes. The sauce is rich and tangy, with a hint of sweetness that complements the juicy chicken. Mushrooms and onions add a savory depth that rounds out the flavors perfectly. Serve it over rice or pasta for a delicious and comforting summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

Filet mignon is seared to perfection and topped with a fresh peach mango cilantro sauce in this 30-minute recipe. The sweet, tangy sauce adds a burst of flavor that elevates the savory steak. Cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous note that ties the dish together beautifully. It’s an elegant meal that picky eaters will adore.
Get the Recipe: Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce