Check out these easy recipes and dinner ideas for hot summer nights that will keep you from sweating away in the kitchen.
Once those hazy, hot, and humid days are underway, the last thing you want to do is crank on the oven or stove, heat up the house, and sweat it out making dinner. Not sure what to cook when it’s hot? These summer meal ideas are light, refreshing, and satisfying, and will help keep you cool in the process.
Some of the basic elements of a great meal for a warm night can include a light salad and a simply grilled protein. Or, you can have fun making elevated sandwiches or salads. Here are 10 recipes and easy ways to kick-start your dinner ideas for hot summer nights.
1. Honey Lime Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Kebabs
A perfect addition to your summer night BBQ spread, these grilled chicken and vegetable kabobs are full of flavor and add a pop of color to any meal. The honey lime marinade is refreshing and makes these kabobs hard to pass up.
2. Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw and Spicy Mayo
This grilled chicken sandwich with coleslaw is perfect for summer nights and easy to make with items you usually have on hand in your kitchen. The Greek yogurt adds a healthier twist to this homemade slaw.
3. Healthy Grilled Chicken & Mushroom Fajitas
This recipe is full of flavor and packed with powerful nutrients from plant-based foods, including salsa, olive oil, mushrooms, red bell peppers, yellow onion, and corn or flour tortillas. These healthy fajitas can be assembled to guests’ unique preferences upon serving.
4. Red Chili and Cheese Stuffed Turkey Burgers
Spice up your summer nights with these Red Chili and Cheese Stuffed Turkey Burgers. They’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for grilling. The combination of red chili and cheese brings a delightful kick that will make these burgers a hit at any BBQ.
5. Grilled Peach and Watermelon Salad
This Grilled Peach and Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and colorful addition to any summer meal. The sweetness of the grilled peaches pairs perfectly with the juicy watermelon, making it a delightful and hydrating dish for hot evenings. Pair with protein and whole-grain bread or crackers for a complete meal.
6. Red Kuri Squash and Quinoa Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
This vibrant Red Kuri Squash and Quinoa Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is packed with nutrients and flavor. The sweet and tangy dressing complements the roasted squash and quinoa, creating a satisfying and wholesome summer dish. The flavors are refreshing on even the hottest of evenings.
7. Quinoa Salad with Radicchio, Dried Cherries and Pistachios
Enjoy a mix of textures and flavors with this Quinoa Salad with Radicchio, Dried Cherries, and Pistachios. It’s a delightful combination of bitter, sweet, and nutty elements that make for a unique and delicious summer salad.
8. Warm Potato, Leek, and Lentil Salad with Citrus and Herbs
This Warm Potato, Leek, and Lentil Salad with Citrus and Herbs is a hearty yet refreshing option for summer nights. The citrus and herbs add a bright flavor to the warm potatoes, leeks, and lentils, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.
9. Mini Tacos with Avocado, Hummus, and Lime
These Mini Tacos with Avocado, Hummus, and Lime are perfect for a light and healthy summer meal. The creamy avocado and hummus pair wonderfully with the zesty lime, creating a delicious and nutritious bite-sized treat. These pair well with any main protein you have on the grill.
10. Salsa Verde Grilled Vegetables Paired with Chicken
Add a burst of flavor to your summer dinners with Salsa Verde Grilled Vegetables. The tangy salsa verde enhances the grilled vegetables and is a great pairing with grilled chicken. This dish is a flavorful and nutritious option for warm evenings.
There are 3 main categories these 10 recipes fall under. Some nights you may have more time (or energy) to make a meal, so you can opt for a simpler or more complex option. Here are a few tips to build on the recipes above.
Easy Grilling
Instead of heating up the house, take your cooking outside! Grilling is one of the best ways to cook during the summer and is one of the first things I think of when it comes to summer food. Plus, only grilling gives that undeniably smokey and fire-kissed flavor to just about anything. Grilling isn’t just for burgers and dogs either. You can cook a variety of foods on the grill, from pizza to fish and even fruits!
Sandwiches and Wraps
Sandwiches and wraps are quick and easy to prepare and don’t require cooking! Experiment with different vegetables, spreads, and proteins. Use leftover grilled veggies and chicken, and swap out the usual mayo for one of these elevated sandwich spreads.
Summer Salads
One of the quintessential light summer meals is a wholesome salad. To build a balanced meal, follow the tips below:
- Start with a base of leafy greens and colorful vegetables.
- Top with a lean protein like grilled chicken or salmon.
- Add a serving of whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, or barley.
- Pair it with your favorite dressing, and enjoy a light, balanced meal.
Stay Inspired this Summer
Looking for more healthy inspiration this summer beyond dinner ideas for hot summer nights? Keep reading to explore 10 Best Airplane and Road Trip Snacks According to Dietitians.
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