Summer is here and it’s time to cool down, lighten up, and savour the freshest flavours of the season. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, packing a picnic, or just craving something crisp and cooling, these 10 summer recipes will keep you refreshed from sunrise to sunset.
🥗 1. Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
Sweet, salty, and herbaceous, this salad screams summer.
Ingredients: Cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, fresh mint, olive oil, lime juice.
Tip: Add cucumber for extra crunch.
🧊 2. Cucumber Mint Cooler
Hydration never tasted so good.
Ingredients: Cucumber, mint leaves, lemon juice, sparkling water, a touch of honey.
Serve: Over crushed ice for max chill.
🍓 3. No-Bake Berry Yogurt Bowls
Layered with fresh berries, Greek yogurt, and granola ideal for breakfast or dessert.
Fast fix: Use mason jars for a grab-and-go treat.
🌮 4. Shrimp & Mango Tacos
Tropical vibes in every bite.
Ingredients: Grilled shrimp, diced mango, cabbage slaw, avocado, lime crema.
Shell it right: Use soft corn tortillas.
🥭 13. Tropical Chia Pudding
A make-ahead, fibre-rich treat.
Ingredients: Coconut milk, chia seeds, diced mango, pineapple chunks.
Top it off: With toasted coconut flakes and a drizzle of honey.
🍉 6. Frozen Fruit Skewers
Snackable, colourful, and kid-approved.
Try: Pineapple, kiwi, strawberries, grapes, freeze for 1-2 hours and serve!
🍋 7. Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
A zesty twist on a picnic classic.
Ingredients: Cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, arugula, lemon zest, chopped basil, parmesan.
Dress: With olive oil and lemon juice.
🍅 8. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
A bite-sized twist on the Italian classic.
Ingredients: Cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, fresh basil.
Drizzle: With balsamic reduction and a touch of sea salt.
Serve: Chilled for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
🍦 9. Coconut Milk Popsicles
Dairy-free and dreamily delicious.
Flavour combos: Mango & coconut, strawberry & lime, or blueberry & vanilla.
Pro Tip: Use real fruit purée for a natural sweetness.
🍤 10. Summer Roll Bowls
A deconstructed take on Vietnamese summer rolls.
Ingredients: Rice noodles, shrimp or tofu, shredded carrots, cucumber, mint, and peanut sauce.
Serve cold: For the ultimate light meal.
🌴 Bonus Tip: Keep It Fresh
Stock up on herbs like mint, basil, and coriander, these brighten up almost any dish and instantly make meals feel summery.
🌞 Final Bite
From tangy to tropical, savoury to sweet these recipes are perfect for celebrating the sunshine. Share them with friends, serve them al fresco, and most of all: enjoy every bite of summer.