14 Summer Meals Made for Hot Weather
Whether you’re firing up the grill, using the slow cooker, or whipping up a chilled pasta salad, each recipe highlights the colors and tastes of summer. From easy mains to flavorful sides, these ideas bring variety and ease to your warm-weather table.
Summer Orzo Salad
Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Small pasta, feta, cucumbers, and fresh herbs are tossed in a lemony dressing. It’s light, flavorful, and easy to prep ahead. Works as a side or a full meal. Add chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it heartier.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad
Grilled Bay Scallops with Summer Vegetables
Scallops grill fast and pair beautifully with a mix of seasonal veggies. A light marinade of garlic and lemon brings it all together. Serve on skewers or over a bed of greens. A quick seafood dish with lots of color.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bay Scallops with Summer Vegetables
Slow Cooker Summer Beef Stew
This version uses lean beef, fresh vegetables, and a light broth. It simmers without heating up the kitchen. Serve with bread or over couscous. A good choice for cooler summer evenings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Summer Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Summer Frittata
Eggs, seasonal vegetables, and herbs cook low and slow into a fluffy frittata. You can slice and serve it warm, cold, or room temp. It’s great for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. Minimal effort with tasty results.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Summer Frittata
Grilled Summer Vegetable Medley
Sliced peppers, zucchini, and onions hit the grill until charred and sweet. Olive oil and a sprinkle of salt are all you need. Serve alone, on sandwiches, or tossed with grains. A go-to side for outdoor meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Summer Vegetable Medley
Summer Italian Pasta Salad
Salami, olives, cherry tomatoes, and pasta come together in this savory mix. Italian dressing adds bold, tangy flavor to every bite. Great for making ahead and serving chilled. A crowd favorite that travels well.
Get the Recipe: Summer Italian Pasta Salad
Simple Summer Lasagna
Layers of noodles, zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese bake into a lighter version of a comfort food favorite. It’s less rich than the traditional style. Serve with a green salad. Great for a relaxed weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Simple Summer Lasagna
Summer Sauteéd Zucchini Tomatoes
Zucchini and cherry tomatoes cook quickly in olive oil with garlic and fresh herbs. The result is colorful and just tender. Serve as a side or toss with pasta or rice. It’s ready in minutes and tastes like summer.
Get the Recipe: Summer Sauteéd Zucchini Tomatoes
Summer BLTC
Bacon, lettuce, tomato, and cheese meet on toasted bread for a fresh spin on a classic. The ingredients shine when they’re ripe and crisp. Add avocado or a fried egg if you like. Ideal for a simple lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Summer BLTC
Summer Pasta Salad
This cold pasta dish is tossed with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette. It’s a staple for picnics and backyard meals. The flavors deepen as it chills. Add protein or cheese to customize it your way.
Get the Recipe: Summer Pasta Salad
Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole
Layered thin slices of squash bake with cheese, herbs, and a crispy topping. The vegetables soften, while the top adds contrast. Serve warm or at room temperature. A great side for grilled meats or pasta.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole
Oven Baked Fish with Summer Vegetables
A single pan of white fish and chopped vegetables like squash and tomatoes bakes until tender. The juices mingle as it cooks for a bright, clean flavor. It’s a balanced, easy dinner. Serve with rice or a crusty loaf of bread.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Fish with Summer Vegetables
Quick and Easy Salmon and Summer Squash
Salmon fillets sear quickly in a skillet alongside thin-sliced squash. The lemon and herbs tie it all together. This meal is fast but feels fresh and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Salmon and Summer Squash
Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad
Fresh corn kernels and chopped tomatoes come together with red onion and herbs. A quick vinaigrette pulls it all into balance. Serve chilled for best flavor. This dish is a standout side for any summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad
