When those scorching temps hit and the sun is beaming late into the night, the last thing you want is a heavy meal weighing you down. Summer is all about light, fresh fare that will satisfy your hunger without leaving you feeling like a stuffed pig. 🐷
From cooling salads to grilled seasonal produce, there are endless options for crafting light yet flavor-packed summer dinners. Let's explore some delish ideas to keep your meals poppin' all season long.
Salad Suppers
Salads make an ideal warm-weather meal as they require little to no cooking. Take advantage of summer's insane bounty like juicy tomatoes, crisp greens, ripe avocados, and sweet corn to create vibrant entree salads. A classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze is a timeless banger. 🍅🧀 For something heartier, top a bed of greens with grilled chicken or shrimp, fruit like berries or mango, nuts or seeds for crunch, and a fire vinaigrette.
Chilled Soups
On sweltering summer nights, chilled soups offer light, hydrating, and incredibly refreshing fare. Gazpachos made with fresh tomatoes, peppers, onions, and cucumbers have a bright, almost drinkable quality that's perfect for hot weather. 🥤 Creamy chilled soups like vichyssoise (potato leek), cucumber avocado, or chilled borscht are other tasty AF options. Top them with a dollop of sour cream, fresh herbs, or croutons for extra flava.
Grilled Mains and Seasonal Sides
Of course, no list of summer dinner ideas would be complete without mentioning the grill. 🔥 Grilling is a fuss-free way to cook up light yet satisfying proteins like fish, shrimp, chicken, or turkey burgers with a hint of smoky flavor. Lean proteins can be paired with grilled summer veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, or corn on the cob. For sides, opt for light salads, whole grains like quinoa or farro, or seasonal fruit salads.
Fresh Summer Rolls and Lettuce Wraps
For an ultra-light dinner option, look no further than fresh summer rolls or lettuce wraps. 🥬 Start with crisp lettuce, rice paper, or collard green leaves and fill them with cooked shrimp or chicken, shredded veggies, herbs and a zingy dipping sauce on the side. These handheld bundles are refreshing AF, customizable, and perfect for hot nights.
Cool and Creative Desserts
You can't discuss summer meals without mentioning dessert! On sweltering evenings, chilled treats like fresh fruit bowls or homemade fruit popsicles make an ideal light and refreshing finish to any dinner. 🍧 Or get creative with desserts like yogurt parfaits layered with fresh berries and granola or a chilled strawberry soup drizzled with balsamic glaze. Yummm!