Summer days are the BEST, aren’t they? Long evenings, warm sunshine, and SO much fun to be had.
But who wants to be stuck inside cooking when it’s beautiful out? Especially when it’s hot, thinking about what to make for dinner can feel like a DRAG.
You just want something tasty, easy, and quick.
That’s where these summer meal ideas come in! We’ve gathered some REALLY simple dishes that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.
Think fresh flavors, minimal cooking, and meals that just scream “summer.”
So, if you’re looking for ways to eat well without all the effort, you’re in the RIGHT place. Let’s dive into these awesome meal ideas!
1. Slow Cooker Southern Fried Corn
Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade Slow Cooker Southern Fried Corn.
This easy recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors of classic southern fried corn straight to your table.
It’s the perfect fuss-free side to complete any meal.
2. Harissa Salmon Bite Bowl with Broccoli
This Harissa Salmon Bite Bowl with Broccoli is a delicious and satisfying meal.
You’ll love these flavorful harissa salmon bites nestled in a vibrant salmon bowl.
It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome and tasty dish any day.
3. Garlic Ranch Potatoes
Garlic Ranch Potatoes are an incredibly easy side dish.
These roasted potatoes are bursting with savory flavor, making them perfect for any meal.
4. Lemon Artichoke Pasta Salad
Lemon Artichoke Pasta Salad is a quick, tangy, and herby dish perfect for any gathering.
This make-ahead vegan pasta salad easily feeds a crowd, making it ideal for picnics and everyday enjoyment.
5. Pimento Cheese
Pimento Cheese is a colorful and zesty dip that will brighten any appetizer board. This creamy spread, a delightful pimento cheese recipe, is sure to become your new favorite.
6. Smoked Tofu Burrito Bowl
This Smoked Tofu Burrito Bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.
You’ll love the savory smoked tofu combined with all your favorite burrito bowl flavors.
It’s a satisfying and easy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
7. Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks
Slow Cooker Chicken Drumsticks are incredibly easy to make and cook to tender perfection.
Coated in a flavorful spice rub and delicious barbecue sauce, these crock pot chicken drumsticks are a simple dinner solution.
This fuss-free meal takes just minutes to assemble for a delicious dinner.
8. Taco Pasta Salad
This Taco Pasta Salad brings all your favorite zesty taco flavors to life in a refreshing way. It’s the perfect, easy-to-make dish for potlucks, parties, and any casual meal.
9. Seared Scallops
Create restaurant-worthy Seared Scallops right in your own kitchen. This simple seared scallops recipe helps you easily achieve perfect results at home. You’ll love learning how to make seared scallops that impress everyone.
10. Vegan Chickpea Tacos
Whip up these delightful Vegan Chickpea Tacos in just 20 minutes for a quick and flavorful meal. Made with simple pantry staples, these budget-friendly chickpea tacos are perfect for any dinner.
11. Fruit Kabobs
These Fruit Kabobs are a delightful way to enjoy a colorful rainbow of fresh fruit. Bright fruit skewers are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, especially with the yummy yogurt dipping sauce.
12. Chili Lime Fish Stick Tacos
Chili Lime Fish Stick Tacos offer an incredibly easy dinner solution.
This recipe uses a simple trick to jazz up everyday fish sticks.
Paired with a fresh, kid-friendly mango avocado fruit salsa, these tacos are sure to be a family favorite.
13. Zucchini Salad with Lemon and Feta
Enjoy the bright flavors of summer with this Zucchini Salad with Lemon and Feta. This simple side dish brings together crisp zucchini, ripe tomatoes, and fresh lemon for a delightful bite. It’s a fantastic gluten-free, keto, and low-carb option everyone can enjoy.
14. Blueberry Dump Cake
Our Blueberry Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert.
You truly just dump a few simple ingredients together and bake for a delicious cake.
15. Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Enjoy incredibly delicious Air Fryer Turkey Burgers for your next meal. This simple air fryer turkey burgers recipe is quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable to your taste.
16. Taco Dip
This classic Taco Dip is a creamy layered appetizer, perfect for any party or gathering. It’s a quick and easy Mexican dip, ready in just 10 minutes, loaded with all your favorite taco toppings.
17. Five Minute Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
These Five Minute Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders genuinely come together in just five minutes.
This fantastic, quick chicken tenders recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
18. Tex Mex Lunch Bowl
This Tex Mex Lunch Bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy a simple meal prep.
It features juicy, marinated chicken over rice with your favorite burrito toppings.
A creamy chili sauce brings all these delicious flavors together for a satisfying meal.
19. Blackened Chicken Thighs
Blackened Chicken Thighs offer a deliciously fast meal. These boneless skinless chicken thighs are wonderfully crispy and tender, seasoned with the best combination of spices, making them a great 20-minute dinner. Plus, they are naturally low carb, dairy free, and gluten free!
20. Grilled Mackerel Fillets With Green Goddess Dressing
Enjoy the fresh taste of Grilled Mackerel Fillets with Green Goddess Dressing.
This vibrant dish features tender grilled mackerel fillets paired perfectly with a creamy, herby dressing.
It’s a delightful and simple way to bring bright flavors to your table.
21. Blueberry And Raspberry Smoothie
Enjoy a delicious Blueberry And Raspberry Smoothie, a truly refreshing and nutritious treat.
This vibrant berry smoothie is packed with fresh flavors, perfect as a healthy snack or quick breakfast.
It’s a fantastic blueberry raspberry smoothie without yogurt, offering a delightful very berry taste.
22. Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken
Enjoy succulent Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken, roasted to perfection right at home with minimal fuss. This easy, healthy recipe is great for dinner and provides fantastic chicken leftovers for days.
