Summer is just around the corner and it’s time to start thinking about fresh and healthy recipes that will keep you feeling energized and satisfied all season long! Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or looking for something to bring to a potluck, there are plenty of tasty options that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Check out these 5 recipes that are sure to get you in the summer spirit.
Watermelon Feta Salad
First up, let’s talk about salads. Salads are a great way to pack in lots of veggies and fruits, and they’re perfect for hot summer days. One of our favorite summer salad recipes is watermelon feta salad from Delish (Delish, 2018). This salad is bursting with flavors and is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 4 oz. feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine red onion, watermelon, and feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with mint leaves and serve immediately.
Grilled Peach & Prosciutto Salad
Another great option is this grilled peach and prosciutto salad from Food Network (Food Network, n.d.). This salad is sweet and savory all at once, making it a perfect summer dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 4 peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups baby arugula
- 4 oz. prosciutto, torn
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the cut sides of the peaches with the olive oil mixture.
- Grill the peaches, cut side down, until charred, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss together arugula, prosciutto, and goat cheese.
- Arrange the grilled peaches on top of the salad.
- Drizzle with the remaining olive oil mixture and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Grilled Salmon
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try grilling up some fish or chicken. This grilled salmon recipe from Eating Well (Eating Well, n.d.) is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and is perfect for a summer dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. salmon fillet
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp. chopped fresh dill
- 1 tbsp. chopped fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush the salmon fillet with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine parsley, dill, thyme, and garlic.
- Rub the herb mixture over the salmon fillet.
- Grill the salmon, skin side down, for 4-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Serve immediately
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
For a vegetarian option, try Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers (Minimalist Baker, 2019). This recipe is a great alternative to traditional meat burgers and is sure to satisfy even non-vegetarians.
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
- 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tbsp. tamari or soy sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
- Optional toppings: avocado, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo
Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, tamari or soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper.
- Brush the mixture over both sides of the portobello mushrooms.
- Grill the mushrooms, gill side down, for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip the mushrooms and grill for another 4-5 minutes.
- Serve the mushrooms on whole wheat burger buns with your desired toppings.
Healthy Greek Yogurt Popsicles
Lastly, for a sweet and healthy treat, try making Healthy Greek Yogurt Popsicles with Fresh Fruit (Eating Bird Food, 2021). This recipe is a great way to cool down on a hot summer day while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh fruit (we recommend strawberries, blueberries, or mango!)
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- Popsicle molds
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
- To remove the popsicles from the molds, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds.
- Serve and enjoy!
Looking for more recipes and nutrition guidance? Check out our Custom Meal Plans and our Nutrition Guide!
Remember, summer is all about enjoying the sunshine and spending time with loved ones. By incorporating healthy and delicious recipes into your summer menu, you can feel good about what you’re eating while still having fun. So go ahead and experiment with new flavors and ingredients – your taste buds will thank you!
References:
Delish. (2018). Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe. Retrieved from https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a19635236/watermelon-feta-salad-recipe/
Food Network. (n.d.). Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad. Retrieved from https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/grilled-peach-and-prosciutto-salad-3363348
Eating Well. (n.d.). Grilled Salmon. Retrieved from https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/249118/grilled-salmon/
Minimalist Baker. (2019). Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers. Retrieved from https://minimalistbaker.com/grilled-portobello-mushroom-burgers/
Minimalist Baker. (2019). Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers. Retrieved from https://minimalistbaker.com/grilled-portobello-mushroom-burgers/
Eating Bird Food. (2021). Healthy Greek Yogurt Popsicles with Fresh Fruit. Retrieved from https://www.eatingbirdfood.com/healthy-greek-yogurt-popsicles-with-fresh-fruit/
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