10 Fresh & Flavorful Recipes To Kick Off Summer
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The weather’s warming up, the farmers’ markets are starting to look a little more colorful, and suddenly dinner feels like it should be a little lighter, a little brighter, and maybe just a bit easier, too. This is the time of year when fresh herbs, crisp veggies, and grilled mains start making their way back into the weekly rotation – and I’m not mad about it. Whether you’re eating outside, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something that doesn’t involve the oven, these recipes are a great place to start!
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
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If you’re ready to break out the grill, this one’s a solid place to start! The chicken is juicy, the chimichurri is herby and bright, and the whole thing comes together with minimal fuss. Perfect meal to welcome summer! Full recipe: Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Asparagus Mushroom Pasta
Asparagus is one of those veggies that disappears the second spring ends – so this is the time to use it. Paired with mushrooms and tossed in a lemony cream sauce, this pasta is cozy and light. The best of both seasons, basically. Full recipe: Asparagus Mushroom Pasta
Balsamic Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables
If you’re looking for a make-ahead dish for picnics or cookouts, this is it! The grilled zucchini and bell peppers give it a nice smoky flavor, and the balsamic dressing keeps it feeling fresh. Crumbled feta on top is of course always a good idea! Full recipe: Balsamic Pasta Salad
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Fish tacos just feel like summer, and this version with mango salsa makes things even better. There’s sweetness, a little heat, and a lot of color – everything you want on a warm evening. Full recipe: Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Greek Chicken Salad
When it’s too hot to stand in front of the stove for hours but you’ve got to feed the family, this salad delivers. Crisp romaine, grilled chicken, and a creamy feta dressing come together for a filling but not heavy meal. It’s also packed with flavor – and protein. Full recipe: Greek Chicken Salad
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
If you’re in a sandwich mood (honestly, same), this one is big on flavor with grilled onions and a sun-dried tomato aioli situation. It’s the kind of sandwich you’ll be making all summer long! Full recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Teriyaki Salmon Bowls
These bowls are bright, simple, and very customizable – you’ve got teriyaki glazed salmon, rice, and fresh veggies like cucumber and carrots that just feel right for warmer days. Full recipe: Teriyaki Salmon Bowls
Asparagus Potato Soup
Soup in early summer? Absolutely – especially when it’s full of spring asparagus and lemony brightness. This one is light, smooth, and perfect for those not-too-hot days when you want something cozy but not too heavy! Full recipe: Asparagus Potato Soup
Grilled Balsamic Chicken
This one is as easy as marinate, grill, eat. The balsamic glaze adds a nice tangy-sweet flavor, and it goes with basically anything – pasta salad, roasted veggies, or just whatever’s in the fridge. Full recipe: Grilled Balsamic Chicken
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Sweet and savory with some crunch – this chicken salad is great for when it’s too hot to eat something warm. Serve it on a sandwich, in lettuce cups, or straight from the bowl. Full recipe: Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
