No Travel Required Just 29 Summer Recipes That Bring The Fun

When it’s hot out and schedules are full, fun should come with fewer steps. That’s where these 29 summer picks come in—they bring color, ease, and energy without asking for much. You’re not chasing the feeling, it’s already on the plate. Who needs travel when the fun’s already here?

Black Bean Burger

Getting a hearty meal doesn’t always mean meat on the grill. With Black Bean Burger, you’ll enjoy a pleasing bite that’s both protein-packed and perfect for those looking for a plant-based option. Try it out, and you’ll see that these burgers have a texture and flavor that can stand up to any traditional beef patty.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger

Crack Chicken Dip

If you’re after something that’s going to be a hit at your next gathering, look no further. This Crack Chicken Dip is creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive without being overly complicated. It’s the kind of recipe that has guests hovering around the bowl until it’s scraped clean.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip

Zucchini Fritters

When you have a surplus of fresh produce and need a creative way to use it up, whip up some Zucchini Fritters. This dish brings out the best in simple vegetables, transforming them into crispy, golden brown bites of joy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens onto the plates of those who might be less than enthusiastic about vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

Lemon Yogurt Loaf

Experience the subtle tang and moistness in a slice of Lemon Yogurt Loaf. It’s a straightforward bake that combines the brightness of citrus with the creamy texture of yogurt for a result that’s undeniably refreshing. It might just become your go-to for a simple sweet treat or a complement to your afternoon tea.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Yogurt Loaf

Cilantro Lime Rice

Add some flair to your side dishes with Cilantro Lime Rice, a bright and aromatic alternative to plain grains. It’s an uncomplicated addition that can enhance a meal from standard to spectacular with minimal effort. Whether it’s nestled under a saucy main or served alongside taco night, this rice brings a freshness that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Bite into a Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel and discover a new way to enjoy the flavors of a classic starter. This snack-sized twist takes the spicy, cheesy goodness of jalapeño poppers and puts it in an easy-to-eat, rolled-up form. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a fun and fiery treat, these pinwheels have got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable Fritters turn a mix of garden favorites into a crispy and golden crowd-pleaser. They’re a versatile choice, great for a light meal or as a way to start a feast. Bringing various flavors and textures together, they can be dipped, topped, or enjoyed just as they are.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Every spoonful of Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavor fiesta. It’s the kind of meal that hits every craving at once. Charred corn and tasty chicken sit on seasoned rice. Toppings add crunch, creaminess, and a little kick.
Get the Recipe: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Morel Mushroom Pasta

Enhance your pasta night with some Morel Mushroom Pasta, blending the earthy taste of morels with the comfort of noodles. This dish strikes a balance between gourmet and homestyle, making it a favorite for both special occasions and regular weeknights. It’s a sophisticated yet straightforward dish that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Tiramisu

Indulge in the layered elegance of Tiramisu, a classic dessert that never seems to go out of style. It’s all about the interplay of creamy and coffee-dipped elements, resulting in a dessert that’s both luxurious and light. Not only is it a showstopper at the end of a meal, but making it can be quite the treat as well.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Grilled Peppers

Take the full-bodied sweetness of bell peppers and enhance it over an open flame with Grilled Peppers. This side is all about simplicity, focusing on the natural flavors that emerge when peppers meet the grill. They are versatile enough to pair with almost anything, and they add a splash of color to brighten up your plate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers

Best Zucchini Bread

If you want to experience home-baked comfort in a loaf, then Best Zucchini Bread is your ticket. It brings moisture and a slight sweetness that makes it hard to stop at just one slice. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this zucchini bread fits perfectly into any time of day, from a quick breakfast to a laid-back afternoon snack.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Freshness meets sweetness in Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing, a dish that’s all about celebrating the natural bounty of fruit. The honey and lime dressing brings out the essence of each fruit piece without overpowering it. This salad works as a refreshingly light dessert, a palate-cleansing side, or even a top-notch breakfast option.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Ham and Swiss Sliders

For a mini meal that’s big on taste, try out some Ham and Swiss Sliders. These aren’t your ordinary small sandwiches; they are packed with flavor and can be prepped ahead for convenience. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual get-together, these sliders fit the bill perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders

Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Skip the take-out and experience the rich, cozy embrace of an Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe that’s got all the right flavors. It’s a gratifying way to bring the complexity of Thai cuisine into your kitchen without needing a grocery list a mile long. Pair it with rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s comforting and fulfilling in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Italian Pasta with Salami

A simple yet flavorful dish, Italian Pasta with Salami, infuses your mealtime with a bit of Mediterranean gusto. It’s the kind of recipe that’s both rustic and refined, creating a hearty meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Few dishes manage to be both uncomplicated and indulgent, but this pasta surely does the trick.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Rhubarb Cake

There’s nothing quite like the tang of rhubarb in a Rhubarb Cake to make for a unique dessert experience. This cake strikes a gratifying balance between tart and sweet, an ideal choice for those who appreciate the nuances of flavor. It’s a simple pleasure that can enhance a coffee break or serve as a charming end to a meal.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cake

Mango Shrimp Salad

Brighten up your dining table with the colors and flavors of a Mango Shrimp Salad. This dish combines succulent shrimp with the tropical sweetness of mango, all tossed in a dressing that complements the ingredients perfectly. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it’s also light and nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Vegan Ratatouille

Immerse yourself in the comforts of plant-based dining with a hearty Vegan Ratatouille. This dish is a mosaic of seasonal vegetables, slowly cooked to perfection. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a nourishing meal, ratatouille is a safe bet.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ratatouille

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Add a pop of color and crunch to your meal with Red Cabbage Coleslaw. This side dish is as vibrant visually as it is in taste, with its mix of textures and flavors making for an enjoyable eating experience. It’s not just a great accompaniment to grilled dishes; it also brings a refreshing contrast to heavier meals.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Thai Yellow Curry

For a curry that’s big on flavor but not on heat, Thai Yellow Curry has got you covered. It’s a milder option for those who prefer their curries less spicy but still packed with aromatic spices and creamy coconut goodness. This curry is as pleasing as it is beautiful, with a color that brightens up any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Orange Chicken

Forget about dialing for delivery, because with Orange Chicken you can bring the taste of your favorite Asian eatery into your own home. This dish offers a pleasing balance of sweet and tangy flavors, all coating tender bites of chicken. It’s the sort of recipe that becomes a weeknight staple for its ease and guaranteed crowd-pleaser status.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Pasta Primavera

Assemble a meal that’s bursting with freshness when you opt for Pasta Primavera. This is your ticket to enjoying a variety of vegetables tossed with pasta in a light, tasty sauce. It’s a dish that’s equally well-suited for a casual family dinner or impressing dinner guests.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

7 Layer Dip

Create a centerpiece for your snack table with the classic, crowd-pleasing 7 Layer Dip. As guests peel back layer after delicious layer, they’ll find flavors and textures to suit every palate. It’s not just easy-to-make, but its make-ahead nature frees you to enjoy your party. Whether scooped up with chips or spread on a tortilla, it’s a guaranteed winner.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Grape Salad

For a sweet change of pace, consider the unexpected combination found in Grape Salad. This refreshing concoction marries the sweetness of grapes with creamy elements for a dish that plays well as both a side and a dessert. It’s lightweight, making it a perfect complement to any meal, especially when you crave just a touch of natural sugar.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Sushi Rice

Laying the foundation for an iconic Japanese dish, Sushi Rice is essential for creating that authentic sushi experience at home. This base is crucial for successful sushi rolls, providing just the right stickiness and flavor. Whether you’re crafting maki, nigiri, or sushi bowls, starting with the perfect rice sets the stage.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Rice

Waldorf Salad

Fancy something crisp and refreshing? You might want to turn to Waldorf Salad, a classic that’s stood the test of time. It’s a mix of fresh crunch and creamy dressing, which is ideal for a light lunch or as a side. The contrast of textures and the convenience of preparation make it a reliable go-to.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Avocado Toast

Jump on the bandwagon or continue your love affair with the ever-popular Avocado Toast. This straightforward dish allows the creamy texture and subtle flavor of avocado to shine, enhanced with just the right accompaniments to bring it alive. It’s speedy enough for a hectic morning while remaining fancy enough for a leisurely brunch.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Light up the barbecue for some Grilled Veggie Kebobs that are as colorful as they are appetizing. These skewers offer a variety of vegetables, charred to bring out their natural sweetness and depth. They’re the perfect partner for any grilled meal, providing a healthy and flavorful side.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs