19 Stupid Simple & Simply Delicious Summer Dishes

Looking for summer meals that won’t make you sweat like a popsicle in the sun? These dishes are the answer. With 19 simple recipes, you can have a feast ready before your neighbor’s dog steals your BBQ. These are perfect for those who want great food without a cooking degree or a fire extinguisher.

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Grilled Steaks With Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks With Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This one is a no-brainer for summer. When you make Grilled Steaks With Cowboy Butter, it turns out juicy and flavorful every time. This dish is versatile and pairs with pretty much any side, perfect for throwing on the grill during those warm nights. It’s simple, fast, and keeps the heat out of your kitchen, making it an ideal summer staple.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks With Cowboy Butter

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Think about a minimal cleanup dinner that doesn’t skimp on yumminess. That’s what Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken gives you, with its bright and herby flavors. Great for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend ages cooking, this dish makes dinner a breeze. Just toss it all together, and you’ve got a quick, healthy, and flavorsome summer winner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Summer barbecues and family gatherings get even better with Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. This dish is super versatile, perfect for use in tacos, nachos, or burritos. It’s got that spicy kick everyone loves, making it a surefire hit. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a reliable option for any weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Crisp and refreshing, Chinese Chicken Salad offers a break from heavy summer meals with its light, vibrant ingredients. It’s got a fulfilling crunch and is packed with flavors that amaze your palates. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad won’t weigh you down but will still leave you feeling rewarded.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Looking for next-level snacks or sides? Try Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. They’re cheesy, bacon-y bites of deliciousness that are guaranteed to be a hit. Perfect for game days or casual get-togethers, these tots disappear quickly, so make plenty to go around.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Looking to shake up your usual summer sides? Pizza Pasta Salad is like a picnic favorite with a delicious twist everyone will love. It’s easy to make and convenient, and it combines the best parts of pizza and pasta into one dish. Great for potlucks or family dinners, this salad is perfect for when you want to offer something new and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

A plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers sprinkled with chopped herbs.
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Add some Italian flair to any meal with Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. This dish is hearty but not too heavy, making it great for summer dinners where you want robust flavors without too much effort. It packs in a lot of taste with minimal preparation, making it an easy win at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic comfort food gets a summer-ready twist with Turkey à la King. It’s a hearty meal that doesn’t feel too heavy, making it suitable for warm evenings. Prepare it ahead of time and heat it up when you’re ready for a quick, fulfilling dinner. It’s great for those nights when you want something comforting but not overbearing.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Even in summer, sometimes all you need is a warm, comforting bowl of Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. This soup is rich, filling, and ideal for those rainy summer days when you crave something hearty. It’s straightforward to prepare, bringing a bit of Ireland to your home, and it’s always a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Roast Pork With Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork With Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pair up some great flavors with Roast Pork With Apples. This dish may sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly simple to make and brings a touch of elegance to your meals. It’s perfect for special summer dinners or easy Sunday meals, offering simple flavors that work exceptionally well together.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork With Apples

Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries

A plate of cottage cheese toast with blueberries, next to a honey dipper.
Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a hassle-free breakfast or snack, try Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries. It’s the perfect blend of creamy and sweet, feeling just right for easy summer mornings. There is no complicated prep here; simply spread, top, and enjoy. It looks and tastes fresh and light, making it ideal for warm days when you want something quick and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Got some extra steak lying around? Leftover Steak Quesadilla turns those leftovers into something mouthwatering and fulfilling. It’s quick, filling, and a great way to avoid wasting food. Best of all, it’s delicious enough to feel like a whole new meal, making it a creative and efficient dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Summer means lighter meals, and Easy Salmon Pasta Salad hits the mark effortlessly. It’s ideal for hot days when you want something cool, nutritious, and refreshing. Simple to throw together with minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even as a quick lunch. Just chill and serve, making it an easy and convenient summer dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Feel like you’re at a classic diner with Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This meal brings comfort to your summer table and is incredibly simple. It’s hearty and perfect for those nights when you need something more filling. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Break out the big pot for Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. This recipe offers comforting flavors that are well worth the effort, even in summer. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for when you’re ready. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Top-down shot of two Leftover Steak Soft Tacos on a slate board.
Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Quick dinners are necessary in summer, and Leftover Steak Soft Tacos make it easy to whip up something delicious. Use up that extra steak to create a meal full of flavor that’s fun to eat. It’s super simple, and everyone can customize their own tacos, making it a win for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Light and nourishing, Wild Rice Salad brings something fresh, flavorful, and wholesome to your dinner table. It’s got a great texture and is super simple to put together with minimal ingredients. Perfect as a versatile side or a main dish, this salad works great for meal prep, allowing you to make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with several meatballs covered in tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For the easiest meal ever, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are a go-to choice. Just throw everything in the slow cooker, set it, and walk away until mealtime. Ideal for busy summer days, these meatballs provide a hearty dish without any fuss. They’re always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Quick and flavorful, Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken is about to become your new favorite recipe. This dish is simple to prepare but brings big, fulfilling flavors everyone will enjoy. It’s ideal for family dinners or meal prep, providing a scrumptious meal with minimal effort. There are no complications here, just really good food.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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