I Made 29 Summer Recipes And Actually Got A Compliment

I made these 29 summer recipes and someone clapped. Not like a slow clap, but still, hands were involved, and it wasn’t out of pity. It was the kind of moment that makes you check if your smoke alarm is still working, just in case. But nope—just food that didn’t get roasted by my family for once, and that felt new.

Three glasses of shrimp cocktail with avocado, lime wedge, and cilantro garnish in a tomato-based sauce, placed on a light-colored surface.
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Buffalo Chicken Salad

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You’ll love how the heat of this dish balances with the cool crunch of the salad. Buffalo Chicken Salad gives you that perfect kick without being overpowering. It’s simple to make but feels like you’re having something special. If you want a dish that’s both fulfilling and light, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl.
Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You don’t always need fancy ingredients to make a crowd-pleaser, and Biscoff Ice Cream proves it. Creamy, sweet, and with just the right hint of spice, it’s a treat everyone can enjoy. It doesn’t take much to make, but you’ll feel like you’ve made something gourmet. Definitely a surprise hit when you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re craving something fresh and bold, Mexican Street Corn Salad delivers. This recipe combines everything you love about street corn, but in a way that’s easy to serve up. It brings together a lot of flavors, but it’s the kind of dish that feels light and perfect for any occasion. It’s a quick and fulfilling side that steals the show.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The twist on this classic takes it up a notch, with just the right balance of sweetness and tang. Orange Chicken is a crowd-pleaser, offering a unique flavor profile that feels familiar but new. It’s simple enough to make for a weeknight, but special enough to serve guests. A solid choice for a fast and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Rhubarb Pie

Slice of strawberry pie on a plate with two black spoons beside it.
Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something about Rhubarb Pie that just hits the spot. It’s tangy, sweet, and perfect for those times when you want a comforting, homemade dessert. Not too complicated, but every bite makes it clear you put in the effort. It’s a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Pie

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for a salad that feels filling but fresh? Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is a great option. The shrimp adds just the right amount of spice, and the creamy dressing ties everything together. This one definitely brings a nice balance of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Peach Cobbler

A close-up of a slice of peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate.
Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Peach Cobbler is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for when you want to bring something sweet to the table. The combination of sweet peaches and a soft, crumbly topping makes it a dish that’s both filling and satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that always gets a good response.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler

Blackened Salmon Tacos

Tacos with grilled salmon, purple cabbage, corn, jalapeño slices, cilantro, and drizzled with white sauce on tortillas.
Blackened Salmon Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These tacos are a great way to shake up your usual taco night. Blackened Salmon Tacos bring some serious flavor with a perfectly seasoned salmon. The texture of the salmon pairs nicely with the crisp toppings, making each bite interesting. It’s an easy-to-make dish that still has a lot of personality.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Salmon Tacos

Mexican Street Corn

Close-up of Mexican Street Corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, crumbled cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mexican Street Corn brings a great combination of flavors and textures. The creamy coating and the bit of heat create a simple but delicious snack. Whether as a side or just a quick bite, it’ll add something fun to any meal. It’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a light but filling meal, Pasta Primavera is your best bet. It’s quick to make, and the mix of veggies gives you a fresh bite every time. You can’t go wrong with this one; it’s simple and easy, but it still feels like a treat. It’s a versatile dish that you can adjust based on what you have around.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This is your go-to recipe when you need something quick but fulfilling. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe gives you all the flavors you expect without having to leave the house. The chicken comes out juicy, with the perfect amount of sweetness from the teriyaki sauce. It’s a hit that’s just as good as takeout.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Morel Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of cavatappi pasta with morel mushrooms, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Morel Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you want to try something a bit different, Morel Mushroom Pasta is a great choice. The mushrooms add an earthy richness that really stands out without being too heavy. It’s a cozy dish that feels like it’s been cooked for hours, even though it’s simple. Definitely one for the mushroom lovers out there.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet, crisp, and fresh, Honeycrisp Salad is a refreshing change. The apples add a nice bite, and the dressing brings everything together without being overpowering. It’s the kind of dish that feels light but still fulfilling. A perfect option when you want something easy and refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a meatless option that still fills you up, Black Bean Burger is a winner. The beans give it a hearty texture, and the seasoning makes it full of flavor without being too much. It’s a great substitute when you’re craving a burger but want to skip the meat. Simple, healthy, and really tasty.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger

Pizza Pinwheels

A plate of golden-brown pinwheel pastries filled with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of sauce is in the background.
Pizza Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pizza Pinwheels make for an easy, fun meal that’s perfect for almost any occasion. They’re simple to make and pack in all the pizza flavors we know and love. The dough wraps up perfectly, giving you a nice balance of crispy and cheesy. It’s a fun twist on pizza that always gets a thumbs-up.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels

Rhubarb Cake

Slice of rhubarb cake dusted with powdered sugar, on a white plate, with a silver spoon beside it.
Rhubarb Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This cake brings together just the right balance of flavors. It’s a great way to add a bit of sweet and tart without going overboard. Whether for a casual bite or a treat, Rhubarb Cake won’t disappoint. A simple, no-fuss dessert that still gets compliments.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cake

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re looking for something with a little kick, Hot Honey Chicken Salad is where it’s at. It balances heat with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s easy to make and feels a bit special when served. I couldn’t believe how well it was received.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, less is more, and Cacio e Pepe proves that. This dish is simple but makes an impression with its creamy texture and sharp bite. It’s the kind of recipe you can whip up without stressing. And trust me, the compliments are real.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Ice Cream Cake

Close-up of strawberry shortcake slices topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Layers of cake, cream, and strawberries are visible.
Ice Cream Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a dessert that steals the show, Ice Cream Cake is a winner. You can’t go wrong with the creamy layers and crunch in every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion. I was honestly surprised by how many people asked for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza Salad takes all the things we love about pizza and makes it easier to eat. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of crunch and zest without too much work. This one got plenty of attention at the table. It’s a fun twist on a classic.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Rhubarb Crisp

A baked dessert with a crumbly brown topping and red filling sits in a dish, with a portion served in a separate bowl. Spoons are present in both the dish and the bowl.
Rhubarb Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This is a comforting dish that hits just the right spot. Rhubarb Crisp has the perfect mix of textures, from the crisp topping to the soft filling. If you’re after something simple and fulfilling, this is it. I’ve gotten some serious compliments on this one.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Crisp

Italian Dressing

A jar with Italian dressing with it and a teaspoon resting in it.
Italian Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and Italian Dressing shows how true that is. It’s bright and tangy, working perfectly with salads or as a marinade. People seem to love the fresh and punchy vibe it brings. It’s been my go-to for quick, flavorful meals.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want something that’s full of flavor but not too heavy, Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies fits the bill. It has just the right amount of heartiness, and the grill adds something extra. This one caught a lot of attention from everyone. It’s a simple, solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Pistachio Ice Cream

A glass bowl holds two scoops of pistachio ice cream topped with crushed pistachios, with a waffle cone placed upside down in the bowl.
Pistachio Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pistachio Ice Cream is a classic that never gets old. It’s got the right amount of richness without feeling too heavy. When you serve this up, you’re sure to hear a lot of “Wow.” It’s one of those desserts people keep coming back for.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want something a bit different, Red Cabbage Coleslaw offers a fresh take. It’s a crunchy side that pairs well with just about anything. People seemed surprised by how much they liked it. This recipe always gets great feedback.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Lobster Roll

A close-up of a sandwich roll filled with chunks of seasoned lobster meat, garnished with chopped chives.
Lobster Roll. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Lobster Roll is the kind of dish that feels special without much effort. It’s simple, but the quality shines through in every bite. When I served this up, I couldn’t believe the compliments. It’s a fresh, light option that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

Shrimp Scampi

https://hungrycookskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MSN-Shrimp-Scampi.jpg
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want something a little indulgent, Shrimp Scampi is perfect. It’s rich but still light enough to enjoy as a main. This dish has a way of impressing without being complicated. I was honestly taken aback by how much people loved it.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Tomahawk Steak

https://hungrycookskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/MSN-Tomahawk-Steak.jpg
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This steak is a showstopper when you want to go all out. The presentation alone gets people talking, and the taste doesn’t disappoint. Tomahawk Steak is a satisfying meal that earns its compliments. I’ve made this a few times, and it’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Three glasses of shrimp cocktail with avocado, lime wedge, and cilantro garnish in a tomato-based sauce, placed on a light-colored surface.
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail brings a fresh and bold twist to the classic. The mix of textures and flavors is spot on and keeps people coming back for more. It’s one of those recipes that’s hard to forget. People definitely took notice when I served this one.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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