15 Summer Recipes You Shouldn’t Keep Under Lock And Key (Set Your Taste Buds Free)

As summer rolls in, it’s a perfect time to shake up what you’re eating. There’s a whole season ahead to try out 15 fresh summer recipes. These aren’t just any recipes; they’re easy to put together and perfect for any summer day, whether you’re eating inside or heading outside for a picnic. They’re about to make every meal a highlight of your day!

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Croquettes on a white plate with tomatoes and broccoli.
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

This dish takes the creamy, dreamy sauce we all know and love and gives it a summery twist by tossing in some perfectly cooked shrimp. Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo is like bringing a bit of that Olive Garden magic into your home but with a lighter. It fits the summer mood just right.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Roast Pork with Apples

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

Now, you might not instantly think of roast pork as a summer dish, but throw in some apples and it’s a game-changer. Roast Pork with Apples combines that meat goodness with the sweet, tangy burst of fruit. It makes the whole meal taste like it’s been kissed by summer!
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Bring the sweet, tangy taste of Panda Express right into your summer kitchen with Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. It is all about that crave-worthy crunch and the golden, sticky coating that makes each bite a little celebration. It’s surprisingly straightforward to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish. The meal is set on a white wooden table beside silver cutlery and a floral napkin.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

There’s something about a Diner Style Salisbury Steak that just screams comfort food. It’s hearty but not heavy, making it just right for a summer evening meal. Plus, it has that nostalgic diner vibe that everyone loves, turning a regular dinner into something a bit more fun and special.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

That spicy, tangy dish we all love to order? That is Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This version lets you bring all those flavors into your summer meals. It’s a great way to spice up dinner time without the extra heat of being in the kitchen for too long. It’s also customizable to your spice level.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Salmon Pasta Salad

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

Here’s a dish that screams summer from the first bite: Salmon Pasta Salad. It’s refreshing, it’s got those omega-3s from the salmon, and it’s just the right mix of hearty and light. Think of it as your go-to for picnics, potlucks, or just a lazy dinner on the patio. It will surely be a hit even for the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

California Eggs Benedict

Eggs benedict with ham and avocado on an English muffin served on a black plate.
California Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Turning breakfast or brunch into a summery affair is easier than you think with these California Eggs Benedict. It’s all about fresh ingredients and flavors that make you think of sunny mornings and lazy days. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy, making it amazing for a summer brunch with friends or family.
Get the Recipe: California Eggs Benedict

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

When it’s hot outside, this Cucumber Salad with Feta is like a breeze in a bowl. It’s crisp, it’s refreshing, and it has that salty kick from the feta that just brings everything together in the best way. It’s the kind of side dish that goes with just about anything or can stand on its own for a light lunch.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Who says you can’t enjoy a bit of Italian meal during summer? This Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka brings all that comforting Italian flavor but feels just right for the season. It’s a little indulgent, sure, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. Ideal for those nights when you want to treat yourself.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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 Heather.

If you haven’t tried Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries yet, you’re in for a treat. It’s light, it’s nutritious, and it has that perfect mix of creamy and fruity that just works, especially when the weather’s warm. It’s a quick breakfast, a snack, or a light dinner – super versatile.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries

Pizza Pasta Salad

A platter of pizza pasta salad served on a white rectangular dish.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Pizza in a salad form is pretty much the best summer dish you could ask for. It’s got all the flavors you love from a classic pizza but is way cooler and refreshing on a hot day. Pizza Pasta Salad is another one of those dishes that are super easy to customize depending on what you like or have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Croquettes on a white plate with tomatoes and broccoli.
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

These delicious Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes bring a little bit of fancy into your summer without any of the fuss. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and just all-around delicious. Whipping these out at your next summer gathering will get you some compliments.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding a cut steak quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Remember all those times you’ve had a barbecue and ended up with leftover steak? Leftover Steak Quesadilla turns them into a meal that is not just smart, it’s also absolutely delicious. It’s a quick and easy meal that feels a bit like a treat. You can also add in whatever else you like for a custom meal.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

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 Heather.

Searching for one of those perfect summer dishes? Try Chinese Chicken Salad. It’s light, it’s crunchy, and it’s packed with flavor. It’s the kind of salad that even salad skeptics will enjoy, so it’s great for any summer meal. It’s easy to put together, especially if you use pre-cooked chicken.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Don’t let the name fool you. This Beefy John Wayne Casserole is a summer must-try. It is hearty but not heavy, and it has a nice tang that just screams backyard barbecues and family gatherings. It’s a different kind of dish that’s sure to spark some conversation.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

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