Summer Recipe Roundup Here on The Suncoast

Summer here on the Suncoast is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light, and vibrant dishes that not only satisfy your taste buds but also help you stay cool in the heat. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply looking for a quick and healthy meal, these five refreshing and easy-to-make summer recipes are sure to become your go-to favorites. From crisp salads to grilled delights and indulgent cold desserts, each recipe is designed to make the most of the season’s bounty while keeping preparation time to a minimum. Dive into these delightful dishes and savor the best flavors of summer with minimal effort.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon Feta Salad is a refreshing and delightful combination of juicy watermelon cubes, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh mint leaves. Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze, this salad perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. It’s an ideal dish for summer, offering a burst of freshness and vibrant colors that brighten up any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Steps:

• In a large bowl, combine watermelon cubes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Toss gently to mix.
• Serve immediately or chill for an hour before serving.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Grilled to perfection, the chicken is juicy and infused with aromatic herbs, offering a deliciously savory taste. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, providing a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Steps:

• In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of cooked pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, it combines the classic flavors of a caprese with the heartiness of pasta. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make dish, perfect for summer gatherings or a light, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Steps:

• Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
• In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Toss to combine and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled Vegetable Skewers are a vibrant and healthy dish featuring chunks of red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini slices, and red onion, all marinated in a blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic. Grilled to tender perfection, these skewers offer a smoky flavor and slight char that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Ideal for summer barbecues or as a colorful side dish, they provide a delicious way to enjoy a variety of fresh, seasonal produce.

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Prep Steps:

• In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between types.
• Brush the skewers with the marinade.
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
• Serve immediately.

Mango Coconut Ice Cream

Mango Coconut Ice Cream recipe is a luscious and tropical dessert made with ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. This dairy-free treat blends the rich, smooth flavor of coconut with the vibrant, refreshing taste of mango, creating a perfect summer indulgence. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it offers a cool and refreshing way to enjoy the flavors of the season.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Prep Steps:

• In a blender, combine chopped mangoes, coconut milk, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Blend until smooth.
• Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
• Scoop and enjoy!

With these five refreshing and easy-to-make summer recipes, you can effortlessly elevate your summer dining experience. Each dish offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that celebrate the essence of the season. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal with family or entertaining friends, these recipes are sure to impress and satisfy. So, fire up the grill, grab some fresh ingredients, and indulge in the simple pleasures of summer cooking. Here’s to delicious meals, warm weather, and the joy of sharing good food with great company.

Photos Courtesy of Deposit Photos