We Didn’t Feel Like Cooking All Day—29 Summer Recipes To The Rescue
This batch of 29 summer recipes is perfect for people who’d rather not play chef when it’s warm enough to cook on the sidewalk. You won’t need to time five pans or use every bowl in the house. These meals come together fast without cutting corners. It’s food that knows you’re tired and politely doesn’t make it your problem.

Crunchwrap Supreme

If you’re craving a quick, handheld meal, Crunchwrap Supreme has you covered. It’s got all the layers you need to keep things interesting, from crunch to creaminess. It’s the kind of meal that can handle whatever you’re in the mood for. No need to fuss around—just wrap it up and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme
Maryland Crab Cake

When you’re in the mood for something light yet filling, Maryland Crab Cake fits the bill. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, it makes a great choice when you don’t want to complicate things. It pairs well with a simple side or can stand on its own. Easy to love, no question about it.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake
Massaman Curry

If you’re after comfort with a touch of spice, Massaman Curry delivers. This dish brings warmth with a little depth of flavor, perfect when you just want to dig in. It’s the kind of meal that feels fulfilling without being too much. A great pick when you want something easy, but hearty.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry
Grilled Chicken Sandwich

A classic that’s simple and quick, Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a no-brainer when you’re too busy to fuss with dinner. It’s got everything you need—a juicy chicken, crisp toppings, and a bun that holds it all together. It’s a meal you can eat anytime. Enjoy it with whatever sides you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Tiramisu

Tiramisu is your go-to when you’re craving something sweet yet not too heavy. It’s a coffee-flavored dessert that combines just the right amount of sweetness and richness. You can enjoy it right after a meal, or as a treat whenever the mood hits. Simple to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu
Rice Paper Rolls

If you need something fresh and light, Rice Paper Rolls are the way to go. They’re a great snack or meal when you want to keep it healthy without skimping on flavor. These rolls are versatile, easy to make, and fun to eat. Perfect when you’re feeling like something different.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls
Shrimp Burrito Bowls

When you’re looking for something fulfilling without the fuss, Shrimp Burrito Bowls are a solid choice. This dish mixes a little spice with the right balance of flavors. It’s filling enough to hold you over, yet light enough to not leave you feeling sluggish. A quick and easy favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls
Tomahawk Steak

Tomahawk Steak is for when you’re ready to go all in. It’s big, bold, and doesn’t need much to shine. When you’re not in the mood to skimp on flavor, this is your go-to. Fire up the grill, give it room to sizzle, and let it take the spotlight like it was born for it.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak
Shrimp Cocktail

For those times when you need a simple yet classic appetizer, Shrimp Cocktail is perfect. It’s a no-fuss dish that’s as easy to make as it is to eat. Pair it with your favorite dip and you’re good to go. No need for extra effort, just straight to the point.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail
Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Pound Cake is a dessert that hits the spot when you want something sweet, but not too rich. It’s got the right balance of sweetness with a nice, zesty kick. Whether you’re pairing it with coffee or enjoying it solo, it’s just right. Perfect for a little treat at the end of the day.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake
Mexican Street Corn Salad

If you’re in the mood for something fresh with a little bite, Mexican Street Corn Salad hits all the right notes. It’s creamy, crunchy, and just the right amount of spice. This side dish brings a bit of excitement to any meal. You’ll want it on repeat once you try it.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

When you’re craving a dish that combines comfort with a bit of indulgence, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta fits the bill. It’s packed with flavor and has a creamy, fulfilling texture that’s hard to beat. This one is perfect for a quick yet rich meal. Serve it up, and you’ll be hooked.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Kool Aid Pie

If you want something sweet without too much effort, Kool Aid Pie is the way to go. It’s got a fun twist that makes it unique without being complicated. You’ll love the simplicity, and it’s a treat anyone can enjoy. Perfect when you’re looking for an easy dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie
Italian Pasta with Salami

When you need a quick and hearty meal, Italian Pasta with Salami is an easy favorite. It’s a classic, with a simple, satisfying mix of pasta and savory goodness. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s filling enough to keep you going. Great for busy days when you don’t want to overthink it.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

For a snack that’s as easy as it is tasty, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel is a winner. It packs just the right amount of heat with a creamy twist. These little bites are perfect when you’re looking for something quick but flavorful. They’re just the right thing to snack on anytime.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

If you want a quick fix for dinner, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is your go-to. It’s packed with simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. A creamy dish that doesn’t need much effort to enjoy. Just the right mix of comfort and easy prep.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta
Lemon Yogurt Loaf

Lemon Yogurt Loaf gives you a light and moist treat with minimal hassle. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to when you need something quick and fulfilling. Perfect for those moments when you just want a snack without the mess. You’ll love how easy it comes together.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Yogurt Loaf
Marry Me Salmon

When you want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever, Marry Me Salmon has you covered. This dish is simple yet impressive and hits the mark every time. You’ll get a rich, fulfilling result with minimal prep. It’s perfect when you want to impress without all the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon
Easy Banana Pudding

Looking for a quick dessert that hits the spot? Easy Banana Pudding combines creamy textures and sweet layers. It’s perfect when you’re craving something simple but fulfilling. Serve it up, and you’re done—no stress.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding
Creamy Avocado Sauce

When you’re not in the mood for a heavy dip, Creamy Avocado Sauce is just the thing. This sauce is smooth, easy to make, and adds a creamy touch to just about anything. Use it as a topping or a side—either way, it works. It’s simple, yet works every time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Avocado Sauce
Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Craving a dish that’s quick but full of flavor? Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!) has everything you need without the hassle. It’s full of rich, smooth peanut sauce, and you won’t miss the take-out. All the comfort with less effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)
Fruit Pizza

Sometimes, a sweet treat doesn’t have to be complicated. Fruit Pizza brings together a soft base and a fun, colorful topping. It’s easy to put together and doesn’t need to bake your brain. You’ll love how it’s a hit without taking forever.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza
Thai Drunken Noodles

For something quick with tons of flavor, Thai Drunken Noodles is where it’s at. This dish comes together fast, but doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s perfect when you’re craving something with a little kick. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll want it regularly.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles
Easy Caprese Salad

When you’re craving something light and refreshing, Easy Caprese Salad hits the spot. It’s so easy to throw together, but it tastes way more complex than you’d think. This is your perfect side when you need something fresh but simple. You’ll find yourself making it more often than you expect.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad
Thai Yellow Curry

This curry brings a rich, aromatic experience without any complicated steps. Thai Yellow Curry is warm, comforting, and feels like a real treat. You get a full, satisfying dish in just a few simple steps. Once you taste it, you’ll keep it on regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry
Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing is the perfect quick fix for when you need something sweet but healthy. The honey and lime dressing add a touch of zing without overwhelming. It’s fresh, light, and simple to put together in no time. You’ll love how easy and refreshing it is.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing
Lemon Bars

When you need something sweet but not too heavy, Lemon Bars are the answer. They hit that perfect balance of tart and sweet with minimal effort. The best part? You don’t need hours to make them. They’re the kind of dessert you’ll be craving, even on short notice.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars
Zucchini Fritters

These fritters are the perfect option for when you need something light but filling. Zucchini Fritters are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and come together quickly. A simple recipe that’s easy to customize to your taste. You’ll be surprised how often you’ll make them.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters
Grilled Peppers

Grilled Peppers are a quick, flavorful side that complements almost any meal. You don’t need much time to bring out their natural sweetness. Perfect when you need a veggie side that’s done in a flash. You’ll be making these more often than you think.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers
About the Author

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.
