When you’ve got 19 summer dishes that work in any container, the party’s basically sorted. No need to stress over matching bowls or fancy platters—these dishes bring the flavor regardless. Great for everything from picnics to pool days with zero fuss. They travel well, look good, and vanish even faster. Who knew casual could taste this good?
Fried Deviled Eggs
These bite-sized treats have a crunchy twist that surprises anyone trying them for the first time. Fried Deviled Eggs take the classic dish you know and make it bolder with a crispy layer. Their texture makes them stand out at any gathering, no matter how they’re served. Perfect for coolers or trays, they’re easy to share and hard to forget.
Get the Recipe: Fried Deviled Eggs
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
Bringing rich flavors with a light crunch, these snacks have a fun mix of textures that make them unique. Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes balance crispy shallots with hearty pork for a combination that works at any summer picnic. They’re easy to pack up, serve on a platter, and enjoy casually with friends or family. Portable and impressive, they’re memorable finger food.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
The Backyard Table
Get it NOW and level up your outdoor dining! The Backyard Table - Recipes for Summer Cookouts features 34 of Chef Jenn's BEST recipes for outdoor eating and entertaining.
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- Grilled Corn Guacamole
- Grilled French Onion Burgers
- Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Blueberry Grunt
- and so many more!
Every recipe is created, tested and loved by Chef Jenn and her family - there's no AI here!
Get it now, at a special introductory price of $7.99. That's over 50 pages of foodie love at your fingertips!
Buy Now!Italian Broccoli Salad
Fresh and easy, this dish offers a refreshing option next to heavier summer favorites. Italian Broccoli Salad brings together broccoli and Italian-inspired flavors in a way that’s satisfying served cold or at room temperature. Ideal for bowls or trays, it’s a quick crowd-pleaser that never feels too heavy. It’s easy to pack, simple to serve, and a good balance to other summer dishes.
Get the Recipe: Italian Broccoli Salad
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken
Packing bold, hearty flavors into a compact dish, this recipe takes inspiration from a well-loved restaurant creation. Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken layers savory and sweet ingredients in a way that balances richness and simplicity. A great fit for serving trays at BBQs or outdoor events, it’s as practical as it is impressive. Its tasty blend will have people asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken
Squash Casserole
This dish feels like comfort food but fits right in at summer gatherings. Squash Casserole brings warmth and a soft texture, making it easy to scoop and serve. Ideal for any random tray, it offers something filling without being overly heavy. It’s a crowd-friendly option that works well alongside lighter dishes and snacks.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole
Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries
A quick option for lighter eating, this recipe combines texture and balance in a simple presentation. Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries has enough sweetness but doesn’t overpower, perfect for casual summer snack tables. It’s compact and neat, making it easy to pop into coolers and trays for outdoor events. With minimal hassle, it delivers a fresh choice for warm days.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries
Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts
Bright flavors pair with hearty meat for great grill-friendly plates or picnic-ready servings. Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts work anywhere you want something filling yet not overwhelming. Easy to slice or serve whole, they hold up well when packed for summer road trips or long days outdoors. They’re simple to eat but stand out among other dishes with bold seasonings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts
Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche
For a portable dish that offers rich but airy flavors, this quiche is a standout choice. Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche pairs an earthy vegetable with creamy ricotta in a dish that works for brunch spreads or packed coolers. It’s easy to serve from a tray and has a texture that balances firm and smooth perfectly. Slice it up and it fits anywhere on the picnic table.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche
Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing
This dish mixes freshness with a bit of heat for a fun summer recipe. Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing brings together soft noodles and bright flavors without feeling too heavy. Packed into bowls or trays, it stays vibrant and ready to eat for outdoor meals. It’s great for adding variety among the usual summer offerings.
Get the Recipe: Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing
Best Rub for Beef
Sometimes, a simple idea transforms ordinary steaks or ribs into crowd favorites. Best Rub for Beef doesn’t overpower but enhances the meat it’s paired with, giving you flexibility at BBQ events. It’s a great pack-and-go option since the rub can be prepped ahead and stored anywhere. Whether packed in a cooler or grilled on-site, it holds up as a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Best Rub for Beef
Carrot Muffins with Streusel Topping
Sweet but not sugary, this recipe adds comfort you might not expect at summer events. Carrot Muffins with Streusel Topping work well in coolers or trays, easily serving small or large groups. The topping gives just enough crunch to keep each bite interesting, while the carrot makes them feel wholesome. They fit well alongside drinks or desserts at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Muffins with Streusel Topping
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter
Hearty but not overcomplicated, steaks make a bold addition to any summer table. Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter add richness with a handy butter pairing that feels easy yet flavorful. Whether served on large trays or small plates, this pairing holds its own across casual or more formal settings. It’s versatile, portable, and works well alongside other summer favorites.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter
Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette
Light and packed with texture, this dish offers balance for anyone looking for fresh options. Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette combines soft grains with a bright dressing that makes it stand out. Great for bowls or easy-to-serve trays, it’s simple without being boring. It’s a solid choice to pack and share with friends during summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Bold flavors mixed with simplicity, this dish easily becomes a summer favorite. Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers stands out as hearty party food that works well hot or cold, fitting into trays or bowls. It’s filling while still working alongside lighter options on a shared table. Easy to prep ahead, it’s perfect for feeding groups.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Biscuit Dough Donut Holes
A fun, sweet snack option that feels homemade, these bites offer nostalgia and simplicity all at once. Biscuit Dough Donut Holes pack well into coolers and serving bowls, making them great for any size gathering. They’re easy to grab and go, whether you’re indoors or outdoors. With their small size, they add a casual yet thoughtful dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Biscuit Dough Donut Holes
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
Rich and hearty with an added dip, this recipe is practical for larger groups or smaller gatherings alike. Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich works well when packed into serving platters, offering something flavorful yet portable. It’s easy to grab your own portion or share across a picnic table with minimal cleanup. Simple and bold, it appeals to both casual and big occasions.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Offering a veggie-forward option that holds its weight on a grill, these steaks are surprisingly filling. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks look great on a random tray, fitting in next to meat-heavy dishes or lighter fare. They’re structured enough to handle portability without losing their shape. A solid addition to summer menus, they bring balance to traditional barbecue spreads.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Bite-sized and easy to share, these tartlets bring elegance and simplicity together. Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets work well for trays or serving bowls at outdoor or indoor gatherings. Their flaky texture makes them a standout option among bigger dishes while staying portable for any event. They’re easy to prepare ahead, making them convenient for staying fresh on warm days.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad
Crisp and refreshing, this recipe stands out at any meal spread with simplicity and crunch. Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad fits neatly into bowls, making it an effortless summer dish for gatherings. It balances being light enough for hot days while complementing heavier dishes well. With every bite, it’s a fresh addition to BBQs, picnics, or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad