25+ Quick And Easy Summer Dinners
The last thing you want to do on a hot summer’s day, is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I collected my favorite quick and easy summer dinner recipes.
Imagine biting into crispy chipotle lime shrimp tacos topped with zesty mango salsa or enjoying a vibrant and nutritious lemony kale pasta salad with toasted breadcrumbs. These summer recipes are designed to highlight the best of summer produce while keeping your cooking time to a minimum.
From an easy burrata salad to wholesome sweet potato cheddar BBQ chicken burgers, these quick summer dinner recipes will keep your evenings relaxed and enjoyable.
Whether you’re firing up the grill, tossing together a salad, or whipping up a one-pan wonder, each dish is a celebration of easy, delicious summer dining.
Chipotle lime shrimp tacos
No need to wait for taco tuesday! These chipotle lime shrimp tacos are a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
In just a few minutes, you’ll have tender shrimp infused with smoky chipotle flavor, paired with creamy avocado and zesty cilantro-lime coleslaw. The combination of fresh ingredients wrapped in charred corn tortillas creates a vibrant dish that feels like a summer celebration.
Drizzle on the homemade chipotle-lime sauce for that extra kick, and you have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm evenings.
We love: Chipotle Lime Shrimp Tacos with Chipotle Lime Sauce (by Kalefornia Kravings)
Crispy sheet pan tacos
Easy crispy sheet pan tacos are perfect for a quick summer dinner.
This recipe brings together savory ground beef, golden cheese, and fresh pico de gallo in a fun, shareable format. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can savor Taco Night without the hassle. The tortillas crisp up beautifully, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Top with sour cream for added richness, and you’ll have a delightful meal that leaves everyone asking for seconds!
We love: Easy and Crispy Sheet Pan Tacos (by Princess Pinky Girl)
Air fryer chicken meatballs with creamy orzo
An air fryer makes light work of these chicken meatballs. And served with creamy orzo, it’s an instant crowd pleaser.
The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, thanks to fresh garlic and herbs, while the creamy orzo feels indulgent without the hassle. With just one pan for the orzo and the air fryer doing all the work for the meatballs, cleanup is a cinch.
Serve this dish with a sprinkle of parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil and a fresh summer salad on the side.
We love: Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo (by The Epicurean Mouse)
Cilantro lime pasta salad
This cilantro lime pasta salad is a one of my favorite summer dinner ideas!
The combination of creamy dressing, fresh veggies, and avocado creates a vibrant dish that’s satisfying without being heavy. Cooking the pasta in advance means you can toss everything together in minutes, making it a great option for busy nights or potlucks.
Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors that capture the essence of summer, and don’t forget to sprinkle some cotija cheese on top for an extra flair!
We love: Easy Salad Recipe Perfect for Spring! Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad (by Kalefornia Kravings)
Instant pot beef and broccoli
Letting the Instant Pot do the hard work, you can bring delicious beef and broccoli to your table in no time.
Flank steak, garlic, and ginger blend beautifully with a savory sauce, creating a healthy twist on a favorite dish. The Instant Pot makes cooking effortless, allowing you to savor tender beef and vibrant broccoli in just 10 minutes.
Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that keeps your summer evenings simple yet satisfying.
We love: Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli (by Recipes From A Pantry)
Sweet potato cheddar bbq chicken burgers
These sweet potato cheddar BBQ chicken burgers are a fantastic choice for quick summer dinners.
The shredded sweet potato keeps the patties juicy while adding a touch of sweetness. Grilled to perfection, these burgers are topped with sharp cheddar, tangy BBQ sauce, and fresh veggies, making each bite a delight.
With a grilling time of just minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that captures summer’s spirit and pairs perfectly with sweet potato fries or fresh fruit.
We love: Sweet Potato Cheddar BBQ Chicken Burgers (by Ambitious Kitchen)
Slow cooker pulled pork tacos
Slow cookers are not reserved for winter! Making a large batch of slow cooker pulled pork will set you up for a week of easy summer dinners.
Toss a well-seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker with your favorite salsa and spices, and let it do the work while you enjoy your day. In just a few hours, the pork becomes tender and flavorful, ready to be shredded and served in warm tortillas.
Pair them with fresh toppings like cilantro and lime for a delicious meal that brings everyone together without heating up your kitchen.
We love: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos (by Creme De La Crumb)
Zucchini pasta
In just 30 minutes, you transform fresh zucchini into a lightly creamy sauce bursting with bright flavors from garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs.
Cooking the zucchini until it’s jammy creates a delightful texture that coats the pasta beautifully. Simply toss everything together, and you have a vibrant meal that showcases the season’s bounty. Top with fresh basil for that extra summer freshness.
It’s a light yet satisfying dish, perfect for warm evenings and busy schedules.
Love zucchini as much as I do? Why not try my favorite Italian zucchini recipes?
We love: Zucchini Pasta (by Love and Lemons)
Baja fish tacos
Fresh, crispy fish pairs beautifully with crunchy cabbage slaw and a zesty chipotle mayo, bringing a burst of flavor to your plate.
The batter, made with beer, creates a light and golden coating that adds texture without overwhelming the fish. Assembly is simple—just warm the tortillas, add your toppings, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal on a warm evening.
Serve them with lime wedges for an extra zing!
We love: Baja Fish Tacos (by Isabel Eats)
Lemony kale pasta salad with toasted breadcrumbs
This high-protein lemony kale pasta salad is an ideal quick summer dinner.
It combines tender kale with hearty chickpea pasta, making it both nutritious and filling. The toasted breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, while the caramelized lemon butter enhances the flavors with a bright zestiness. Preparing this dish is simple, allowing you to pull together a refreshing meal in no time.
Serve it cold or warm, and enjoy a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy summer nights.
We love: High-Protein Lemony Kale Pasta Salad With Toasted Breadcrumbs (by KALEJUNKIE)
Honey jalapeño turkey burgers
Juicy turkey patties with a hint of sweetness from honey and a touch of heat from jalapeño make every bite exciting.
The creamy avocado crema adds a rich contrast, while fresh corn salsa brightens it all up.
Quick to prepare and perfect for warm evenings, these burgers are fantastic served on toasted buns, making them a must-try for your next summer meal.
We love: Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Avocado Crema (by Wandering Chickpea)
Instant Pot chicken tacos
In just 30 minutes, you transform simple chicken breasts into tender, flavorful shredded meat.
The combination of salsa and spices infuses each bite with zest. You can easily customize your tacos with a variety of toppings, making them perfect for a family taco night or a laid-back cookout.
Serve them with fresh tortillas and keep them dairy-free, or add a dollop of sour cream, for a fun, delicious summer meal that everyone will love.
We love: Instant Pot Chicken Tacos (by Veronika’s Kitchen)
Mushroom veggie burgers
Packed with earthy mushrooms, hearty beans, and nutty barley, they deliver satisfying flavors and textures—perfect for long summer days.
You can bake them for a lighter option or pan-sear for a deliciously charred finish. Prep ahead of time and simply reheat on the grill during cookouts, making them a fantastic choice for warm evenings with friends.
Serve them on toasted buns with your favorite toppings for a delightful summer meal.
We love: Mushroom Veggie Burgers (by My Quiet Kitchen)
Vietnamese noodle salad with grilled chicken
This Vietnamese noodle salad with grilled chicken is a fantastic choice for a quick summer dinner.
The tender vermicelli noodles paired with crisp veggies create a refreshing dish that’s perfect on hot evenings. Grilling chicken adds a smoky flavor, while the tangy rice vinegar dressing ties everything together beautifully. Feel free to toss in your favorite herbs and toppings for a personalized touch.
This dish comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy summer nights.
We love: Vietnamese Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken (by Whole and Heavenly Oven)
Grilled chicken burger with Korean BBQ sauce
Juicy chicken, brushed with a sweet and spicy sauce, hits the grill for that perfect char.
Topped with a crunchy vegetable coleslaw and creamy avocado, each bite offers a refreshing twist, making it light yet satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and brings bold flavors that celebrate summer.
This kid friendly dinner is perfect for busy weekdays or weekends!
We love: The Best Grilled Chicken Burger with Korean BBQ Sauce Recipe (by Salted Mint)
One pan creamy tomato gnocchi with chicken sausage
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish that’s rich and filling. The chicken sausage adds protein, while fresh spinach lightens the meal with a splash of color. Everything cooks together in one pan, minimizing cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights.
Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and some crusty garlic bread for a satisfying family dinner everyone will enjoy!
We love: One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage (by Ambitious Kitchen)
Gluten-free chicken parmesan
This gluten-free chicken parmesan offers a delicious, hassle-free dinner for summer evenings.
Tender, crispy chicken breasts are coated in panko and seasoned for maximum flavor, while the bubbling marinara and melted mozzarella create a comforting finish. Cooking in just 20 minutes means you can whip up a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Serve it with a fresh chopped salad or some zucchini noodles for a light, vibrant dinner that everyone will love.
We love: Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan (by Mama Knows Gluten Free)
Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers
These Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers combine juicy shredded chicken with a creamy, spicy filling that bursts with flavor.
Using vibrant bell peppers adds a fresh crunch that perfectly complements the heat from the buffalo sauce. After a quick bake, these colorful stuffed peppers become a satisfying meal that you can enjoy on warm evenings.
Top with blue cheese or ranch dressing for an extra touch, and you’ll have a delightful dinner ready in no time!
We love: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers (by Garlic Salt & Lime!)
Easy chicken stir fry
A quick chicken stir fry is the perfect beginner friendly easy weeknight meals.
Juicy chicken thighs and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables create a lively and satisfying dish in no time. With a savory stir fry sauce that melds rich flavors, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes.
Serve it over rice or noodles, and you have a delightful meal that brings the tastes of summer right to your table—perfect for busy weeknights.
We love: Easy Chicken Stir Fry (by Lena’s Kitchen)
Moroccan chickpea salad with carrots and quinoa
This Moroccan chickpea salad is the ideal plant-based summer salad.
In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a colorful mix of grated carrots, chickpeas, and quinoa, packed with fresh flavors and nutrients. The homemade dressing adds a delightful twist, bringing together citrus and warm spices. Toss everything together and serve on a bed of arugula for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
It’s perfect for warm evenings when you want something light yet nourishing.
We love: Healthy high protein salad recipe! Moroccan chickpea salad with carrots and quinoa (by Two Spoons)
Sheet pan kale salad with Italian sausage
This sheet pan warm kale salad is an ideal quick summer dinner.
You’ll love how roasted butternut squash and red onion mingle with savory Italian sausage, crunchy pistachios, and tangy feta cheese. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma come together effortlessly on a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. A creamy maple Dijon dressing adds a delightful touch.
Whether for a family meal or a gathering, this salad brings fresh flavors to the table without taking up too much of your evening.
We love: Sheet Pan Warm & Vibrant Kale Salad (by KALEJUNKIE)
One pot Southwestern Alfredo pasta
The Alfredo pasta comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze after a busy day.
Colorful red peppers, black beans, and sweet corn add a fresh crunch, while the creamy Alfredo sauce brings it all together. Toss in some cooked chicken for protein, and you have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
Serve it topped with sour cream or jalapeños for an extra kick! Or find some more ideas for what to serve with Alfredo pasta.
We love: Easy One Pot Southwestern Alfredo Pasta (by Simple Joy)
Thai chicken lettuce wraps
Thai chicken lettuce wraps offer a satisfying crunch from the lettuce with a savory mix of ground chicken, garlic, and ginger, every bite is a burst of taste.
The sweet chili sauce and lime juice bring a zesty twist, while the chopped cashews add texture. Assembly takes just minutes, making this dish perfect for busy evenings.
Serve them up for a fun, hands-on healthy summer dinner that everyone will enjoy!
We love: Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps (by A Pinch of Healthy)
Burrata salad
An easy burrata salad served with bruschetta is one of my favorite healthy summer dinners.
With vibrant spring mix, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy burrata, it brings a burst of freshness to your table. Drizzling with rich olive oil and tangy balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully. You can whip this up in minutes, making it perfect for hot evenings when you want something light yet satisfying.
Enjoy it as a side dish or a delightful main meal with crusty bread.
We love: Easy Burrata Salad (by Two Cloves Kitchen)
Pesto pasta salad
It comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
The vibrant basil pesto mixed with al dente pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures. You can use fresh homemade pesto or store bought pesto to save some time. Toss in crunchy pepperoncini and fresh parsley for an extra burst.
Serve this summer pasta salad chilled or at room temperature, and you’ve got a refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer gatherings.
We love: Pesto Pasta Salad (by Real + Vibrant)
Asian chicken skewers
Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a blend of spices crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
The creamy peanut sauce ties everything together, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. With a cooking time of just eight minutes, you can enjoy this delightful meal without spending your whole evening in the kitchen.
We love: Asian Chicken Skewers In Air Fryer (by Eat with Carmen)
Chicken salad with apples
This chicken salad with apples makes for a fantastic dinner sandwich.
Juicy store bought rotisserie chicken pairs beautifully with crunchy apples and the sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The creamy dressing brings everything together, making it easy to toss together in just minutes.
Serve it in a sandwich, on lettuce, or with crackers for a refreshing meal that feels light yet satisfying, perfect for warm summer evenings.
We love: Chicken Salad with Apples (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)
Southwest chicken skillet
The Southwest chicken skillet is an easy recipe the whole family will love!
Packed with vibrant flavors from salsa verde and green chilies, this one-pan meal comes together in no time. With tender shredded chicken, black beans, and bell peppers, you can enjoy a satisfying dish without the fuss.
Just simmer everything in one skillet, top it with melted cheese, and garnish with fresh green onions and jalapeños.nServe it up hot with a squeeze of lime for an effortless and delicious summer feast.
We love: Southwest Chicken Skillet (by Sailor Bailey)
Frequently asked questions
Summer is all about enjoying the warm days and ample sunshine, not spending hours in the kitchen! These quick and easy summer dinner ideas are perfect for those lazy days when you want a delicious meal without the hassle.
So ditch the takeout and try out some of these delicious recipes. You’ll be surprised at how easy and delicious they are! Wishing you a happy and tasty summer!
