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17 Summer Recipes That Will Make You Want to Live in Flip-Flops and Sip Margaritas All Day Long

Looking for new meal ideas as the days get warmer? It’s time to shake things up with summer recipes that are perfect for those who love the laid-back lifestyle. These dishes are simple to make and fit right in with the season where the sun shines bright and the desire to spend hours in the kitchen is low. They’re just what you need to accompany a chilled glass of your favorite drink.

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs on a black platter.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who says salads have to be boring? Mixing up some sweet cranberries with crunchy walnuts gives you a fresh and flavorful twist, making it a perfect light meal for those long, sunny days. It’s a part of our summer lineup that brings a bit of crunch and sweetness to your plate. And it’s just right for a quick lunch in between summer activities.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Kefta Beef Kabobs

Kefta Beef Kabobs stacked on a white platter.
Kefta Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Imagine skewers loaded with spiced ground beef, grilled to perfection. These kabobs are a highlight of any barbecue, bringing flavors that remind you of far-off places right to your backyard. With each bite, you’re treated to a feast of spices and juiciness that’s hard to beat. It’s a dish that keeps everyone coming back for more at any summer gathering.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a throwback that never goes out of style. A simple, yet delicious blend of ham mixed with the right ingredients to create a salad that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish you’d want for a laid-back picnic or a casual lunch. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ham, making it a smart choice too.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Lemon-Oregano Chicken Kabobs with a dipping sauce.
Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

What’s better than chicken off the grill? Add some lemon and oregano, and you’ve got skewers that bring a zing and herbiness that’s just unbeatable. These kabobs are all about enjoying the simple pleasures of grilling. They’re a staple for any summer feast that’s easy to love by everyone.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops

Ninja Grilled Tomahawk Pork Chops on a white plate.
Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For those days when you want to treat yourself, these chops don’t disappoint. Grilled to juicy perfection, they’re a masterpiece of flavors and textures. This dish stands out in our collection of summer meals, bringing a bit of gourmet to your outdoor dining. It’s a meal that makes any dinner occasion a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light, refreshing, and bursting with colors. This salad is a tribute to summer’s bounty, combining ingredients that cool you down and perk up any meal. It pairs perfectly with heavier dishes, balancing out your meal with a touch of freshness. Ideal for those love their meals with a side of crispiness and freshness.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re a fan of corn, this salad brings all its goodness in a bowl. Inspired by the flavors found on the streets of Mexico, it’s creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy. This is one of those side dishes that easily steals the show at any barbecue or potluck. Just a spoonful, and it’s like summer in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

A plate of chicken wings on a white plate with a slice of mango.
Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Wings on the grill are always a hit, but add mango and chipotle to the mix, and you’ve got something extraordinary. The sweet and smoky flavors make these wings a top pick for anyone looking to spice up their grill game. They’re part of our selection that’s all about bold flavors and fun times. Perfect for when you want your cookout to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Bacon-Wrapped Burger on a black plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Why settle for ordinary burgers when you can wrap them in bacon? This takes your grill game to the next level, combining two favorites into one mouthwatering masterpiece. It’s a recipe that shows off your skills and treats everyone to a little extra indulgence. Definitely a must-try for any summer party.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing a touch of exotic flavors to your picnic, this salad mixes the warmth of curry with the sweetness of raisins. It’s a blend that surprises and delights, making it a refreshing change from the usual. This dish is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. A wonderful addition to any summer spread.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Rotisserie chicken pasta salad in a bowl.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take the ease of rotisserie chicken, toss it into a pasta salad, and you’ve got a winning combination. This dish is all about making the most of your time, giving you more moments to enjoy the sunshine. It’s hearty, satisfying, and just right for feeding a crowd without the fuss. A favorite for those days filled with games and good times.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Grilled Corn Guacamole

Corn guacamole with tortilla chips on a plate.
Grilled Corn Guacamole. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Imagine the smoky flavors of grilled corn mixed into creamy guacamole. This dish elevates a classic favorite with an added layer of texture and taste. It’s a side that goes well with just about everything, making it a versatile choice for casual dinners or festive gatherings. Perfect for dipping or dolloping on top of your favorite summer dishes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a dish that combines the heartiness of steak with the lightness of a pasta salad. It’s a match made in heaven for meat lovers looking for something a bit lighter on those warm days. This salad serves up a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. A standout choice for those who enjoy a bit of luxury even in their everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Grilled Beef Finger Meat

Grilled Beef Finger Meat on a wooden cutting board.
Grilled Beef Finger Meat. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sometimes, it’s the simple pleasures in life, like beef grilled to perfection, that make summer dining such a joy. This dish emphasizes the pure flavors of beef, enhanced just by the grill’s smoky character. It’s uncomplicated, straightforward, and just downright delicious. A must-have at any outdoor cookout for a true meat lover.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Beef Finger Meat

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs on a black platter.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Taking a classic street food and turning it into something fun and fancy for your grill. These corn ribs offer a twist on the traditional, with all the creamy, spicy flavors you love, but in a novel form. It’s a playful addition to our summer lineup, perfect for those who appreciate a new take on old favorites. Plus, they’re just really fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

Sliced Grilled Hanger Steak with Chimichurri on a white plate.
Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Nothing beats the combination of tender steak with the vibrant flavors of chimichurri. It’s a duo that screams summer grilling success. This dish offers an explosion of flavors, making it a highlight of any barbecue spread. It’s a simple yet impressive way to show off your grilling skills to friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken

Smoked whole chicken on Ninja Woodfire Grill.
Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilling a whole chicken might seem daunting, but the results are well worth it. The meat gets infused with a smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate with any other cooking method. This is one of those centerpiece dishes that gets everyone excited to gather around the table. Ideal for a laid-back weekend meal enjoyed outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken

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