18 Must-Make Summer Dishes: Mains and Desserts Included

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors that make every meal feel like a celebration. From light and zesty main dishes to sweet, refreshing desserts, we’ve rounded up 18 summer recipes that are sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for seasonal inspiration, these dishes bring the best of summer to your table.

Fizzy Watermelon Slushi

Cool down on a hot day with this sparkling treat! Made with fresh, juicy watermelon and a fizzy twist of soda water, this slushi is hydrating, refreshing, and so fun to sip. It’s the ultimate thirst-quencher for sunny afternoons!
Get the Recipe: Fizzy Watermelon Slushi

Mango Salad

This tropical-inspired salad delivers a burst of sunny flavor with every bite! Sweet mangoes, crisp veggies, and a light citrusy dressing come together in this vibrant and healthy dish that screams summer on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Mango Salad

Watermelon Salad

Sweet and savory collide in this dynamic salad! Juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and a sprinkle of fresh mint create a delightful combination that’s as refreshing as it is mouthwatering.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Salad

Halloumi Salad

Grilled halloumi takes center stage in this hearty salad! Its salty, creamy flavor pairs beautifully with crisp greens, tangy dressing, and fresh seasonal vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Salad

Healthy Banana Blackberry Nice Cream

Satisfy your sweet tooth the guilt-free way! This creamy, dreamy treat is made with frozen bananas and juicy blackberries for a naturally sweet, dairy-free dessert that feels indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Banana Blackberry Nice Cream

Grilled Zucchini and Squash

Fresh summer squash and zucchini hit the grill to create a smoky, slightly charred flavor that pairs with just about anything. Add a sprinkle of herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple side dish that shines.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini and Squash

Tomato Salad Recipe

Fresh summer squash and zucchini hit the grill to create a smoky, slightly charred flavor that pairs with just about anything. Add a sprinkle of herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple side dish that shines.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Salad Recipe

Hawaiian Burgers

Take your taste buds on a tropical adventure with these flame-grilled burgers! Sweet pineapple, savory bacon, and a tangy teriyaki glaze transform a classic into a flavor-packed burger experience.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Burgers

Easy Blueberry Lemonade Recipe

Tangy lemons and sweet blueberries make the ultimate duo in this refreshing drink! Every sip is a zesty, fruity burst of sunshine that will have you reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Easy Blueberry Lemonade Recipe

Mango Banana Smoothie Bowl

This bowl is like sunshine in smoothie form! Sweet mangos and bananas blended to creamy perfection, then topped with fresh fruits, crunchy granola, and coconut flakes for a wholesome breakfast or snack.
Get the Recipe: Mango Banana Smoothie Bowl

Parsley and Lemon Moroccan Carrot Salad

Bright, earthy, and citrusy, this Moroccan-inspired salad is all about bold flavors. Shredded carrots, parsley, and a lemony dressing make for a light yet flavorful dish you’ll love.
Get the Recipe: Parsley and Lemon Moroccan Carrot Salad

Perfectly Juicy Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Fire up the grill for these irresistible drumsticks! Coated in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce and grilled to juicy perfection, they’re destined to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Juicy Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad

This refreshing twist on pasta salad is loaded with herbaceous pesto and tossed with vibrant veggies. Lightweight yet satisfying, it’s the kind of dish you’ll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad

Bahama Mama Tropical Smoothie

This tropical smoothie is an island getaway in a glass! Packed with tropical fruits like pineapple and coconut, it’s creamy, refreshing, and guaranteed to brighten your day.
Get the Recipe: Bahama Mama Tropical Smoothie

Ice cream bars

Sweet, creamy, and oh-so-fun to make, these homemade ice cream bars are a summer essential! With endless flavor combinations, the only limit is your imagination.
Get the Recipe: Ice cream bars

Rainbow Salad

Bursting with bright, fresh ingredients, this salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate! Loaded with veggies of every color, it’s a celebration of healthy eating made delicious.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Salad

Lemon Blondies

These blondies deliver a perfect balance of tangy and sweet! With a soft, citrusy center and a zingy glaze on top, they’re an irresistible treat for lemon lovers.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blondies

Mini Blueberry Pies

These bite-sized beauties are big on flavor! Sweet, juicy blueberries wrapped in flaky crust make for a charming dessert that’s perfect to grab and go.
Get the Recipe: Mini Blueberry Pies