10 Easy Summer Meals When You’re Feeling Lazy

June 15, 2023

Courtesy of Dietitian Debbie

Summer is here, and it’s always too hot to turn on the oven. With the sweltering heat and your desire to do anything but stand in the kitchen, you probably want something simple and light for dinner. Something that doesn’t require too much time or too many ingredients, and that is still delicious and refreshing. Luckily, there are plenty of easy summer meals that you can prepare in no time—and these ten are some of our favorites!

1. Watermelon Feta Salad

This refreshing salad is the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. The juicy watermelon and tangy feta cheese are a match made in heaven, and the mint adds a fresh and herbaceous note. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine.

Try the recipe from A Couple Cooks.

2. Super Quick Avocado Shrimp Salad

This salad is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The creamy avocado and juicy shrimp pair perfectly with the zesty lime dressing, and the fresh herbs add a pop of flavor. Best of all, it only takes a few minutes to prepare, so you can spend more time lounging by the pool.

Try the recipe from Pinch of Yum.

3. Simple Peach, Basil, and Ricotta Flatbread

This flatbread is a simple yet elegant meal that is perfect for a lazy summer evening. The sweet peaches and creamy ricotta are balanced by the savory basil, and the crispy crust adds a satisfying crunch. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to assemble, so you can spend more time watching the sunset.

Try the recipe from Cookie + Kate.

4. Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These zucchini boats are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy summer squash. The cheesy chicken filling is rich and satisfying, and the smoky BBQ sauce adds a touch of sweetness. Plus, they only take a few minutes to assemble, so you can spend more time enjoying the warm summer breeze.

Try the recipe from Ambitious Kitchen.

5. Jerk Chicken Marinade

This marinade is a quick and easy way to add some Caribbean flair to your summer meals. The spicy and tangy flavors of the jerk seasoning pair perfectly with grilled chicken, and the scallions and thyme add a fresh and herbaceous note. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to prepare, so you can spend more time sipping on a cold drink.

Try the recipe from The Endless Meal.

6. Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato Sauce

This classic pasta dish is a staple of summer cuisine. The fresh tomatoes and basil are light and refreshing, and the garlic adds a satisfying kick. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

Try the recipe from Cookie and Kate.

7. 5-Minute Spicy Chickpea Salad

This salad is a quick and easy way to add some protein and fiber to your summer meals. The spicy chickpeas are balanced by the cool cucumber and creamy avocado, and the zesty lime dressing ties it all together. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to assemble, so you can spend more time soaking up the sun.

Try the recipe from Pinch of Yum.

8. Lamb Burger Recipe

These burgers are a delicious and meaty way to enjoy summer grilling. The lamb is juicy and flavorful, and the tzatziki sauce adds a cool and creamy note. Plus, they only take a few minutes to assemble, so you can spend more time enjoying the warm summer evening.

Try the recipe from The Endless Meal.

9. 5-Minute Veggie Coconut Wraps

These wraps are a quick and easy way to enjoy a light and refreshing summer meal. The coconut wraps are filled with colorful veggies and crisp romaine lettuce, and the creamy avocado adds a satisfying richness. Plus, they only take a few minutes to assemble, so you can spend more time lounging in the shade.

Try the recipe from Minimalist Baker.

10. Peach and Tomato Panzanella Salad

This salad is a delicious way to use up all those juicy summer tomatoes and peaches. The crispy bread adds a satisfying crunch, and the tangy balsamic dressing ties it all together. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the lazy days of summer.

Try the recipe from Dietitian Debbie.