Quick Summer Meals

Three Ideas for Fun Summer Meals

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, fresh, and flavorful meals that make the most of the season’s bounty. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a picnic, or simply enjoying a meal at home, these fun summer meal ideas are sure to delight your taste buds.

1. Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Grilled shrimp tacos are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a summer gathering. The combination of smoky, charred shrimp and sweet, tangy mango salsa makes for a refreshing and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Olive oil

• Chili powder

• Cumin

• Garlic powder

• Salt and pepper

• Corn or flour tortillas

• Mango, diced

• Red onion, finely chopped

• Jalapeño, seeded and minced

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• Lime juice

• Avocado, sliced

• Shredded cabbage or lettuce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and opaque.

4. In another bowl, mix together the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice to make the mango salsa.

5. Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.

6. Assemble the tacos by placing a few grilled shrimp on each tortilla, topping with mango salsa, sliced avocado, and shredded cabbage or lettuce.

7. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This vibrant and healthy quinoa salad is packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and tangy feta cheese. It’s perfect as a light main dish or a side for grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• Quinoa, cooked and cooled

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Cucumber, diced

• Red bell pepper, diced

• Red onion, finely chopped

• Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

• Feta cheese, crumbled

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Fresh mint, chopped

• Lemon juice

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and olives.

2. Add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and mint.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

5. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Watermelon and Feta Salad

This refreshing watermelon and feta salad is a perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors. It’s a great side dish for any summer meal and can be made in just a few minutes.

Ingredients:

• Watermelon, cubed

• Feta cheese, crumbled

• Fresh mint leaves, torn

• Arugula or mixed greens

• Red onion, thinly sliced

• Balsamic glaze or reduction

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, crumbled feta, and torn mint leaves.

2. Add a handful of arugula or mixed greens and the thinly sliced red onion.

3. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Toss gently to combine.

5. Before serving, drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.