Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to throw a party that’s as cool and refreshing as the season itself. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a potluck with friends, or a family gathering, these 20 mouth-watering recipes are sure to be the star of your summer soiree.
From classic grilled favorites like lemon garlic chicken wings and BBQ pulled pork sliders, to lighter bites like chilled avocado cucumber soup and watermelon feta salad with mint, there’s something for everyone on this list. And don’t even get us started on the sweet treats – strawberry basil lemonade, mini key lime pies, and chocolate-dipped frozen banana pops are just a few of our favorite ways to beat the heat.
In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most refreshing summer party recipes that are sure to impress your guests. So grab your apron, fire up the grill (or your blender), and get ready to serve up a summer that’s anything but ordinary.
Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional skewers, this recipe combines juicy shrimp with caramelized pineapple for a flavorful and refreshing summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Thread shrimp and pineapple chunks onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the skewers with the olive oil mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint
A perfect blend of sweet, salty, and refreshing, this watermelon feta salad is a great way to beat the heat on a hot summer day. The combination of juicy watermelon, crumbly feta cheese, and fragrant mint leaves will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch, dinner party, or even just as a quick snack on a hot summer day.
Chilled Avocado Cucumber Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing Chilled Avocado Cucumber Soup, a perfect blend of creamy and crisp flavors.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 2 large cucumbers
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the avocados and remove the pits, then place them in a blender.
2. Add the cucumbers, Greek yogurt, broth, and lime juice to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, chilled treat.
Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Wings
Elevate your game-day gatherings or casual dinner parties with these flavorful and aromatic lemon garlic grilled chicken wings. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Grill chicken wings for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping occasionally.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Berry Trifle with Vanilla Custard
A show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or weekend gatherings. Layers of sweet berries, creamy vanilla custard, and crunchy biscuits create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 6-8 biscuits (such as ladyfingers or sponge cake), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine berries and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juice.
4. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of biscuits in the bottom of a large serving dish. Top with a layer of cooled custard, then a layer of berries. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of custard on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Mango Salsa with Tortilla Chips
Add a burst of tropical flavor to your snack time with this sweet and spicy salsa. Perfect for dipping tortilla chips or using as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
– 1 bag tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
3. Add honey and salt; stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve salsa with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each avocado half.
3. Add a few cherry tomato halves on top of the cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, perfect for a quick and easy summer meal or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the salad just before serving.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Frozen Coconut Limeade
Beat the heat with this creamy and tangy frozen drink that combines the sweetness of coconut with the zesty flavor of lime. Perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Fresh lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lime juice, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the can of coconut milk to the pitcher. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a metal loaf pan. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Scrape the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals formed during freezing. Stir well to re-emulsify the coconut milk.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, juicy pulled pork wrapped in a soft bun and topped with a refreshing side of coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 hamburger buns
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder and BBQ sauce. Cover and cook for 8 hours or overnight.
3. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt and pepper.
4. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing a few ounces of pulled pork onto each bun.
6. Top with coleslaw (see below for recipe).
7. Serve immediately.
Coleslaw Recipe:
1. In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
This recipe elevates a classic summer side dish by adding a tangy and spicy kick from chili lime butter. Perfect for backyard gatherings or casual dinner parties, this grilled corn is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lime juice, and chili flakes until well combined.
3. Brush the chili lime butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peach and Prosciutto Flatbread
Sweet and savory, this flatbread combines the freshness of peaches with the saltiness of prosciutto, perfect for a summer evening. This recipe is quick and easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made or homemade flatbread
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 4-6 slices of prosciutto, torn into small pieces
– 1/4 cup of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange the peach slices on one half of the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top the peaches with torn prosciutto and drizzle with honey.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the other half of the flatbread over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cold Brew Iced Tea with Citrus Slices
Brighten up your day with this refreshing cold brew iced tea infused with citrus slices. Perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (960 ml) water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 2 cups (475 ml) cold brew tea concentrate (see note)
– Juice of 1 orange, lemon, and lime (about 2 tablespoons each)
– Thinly sliced citrus wedges for garnish
– Ice cubes
– Optional: sugar or honey to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine water and black tea bags in a large pitcher. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then remove the tea bags.
2. Add cold brew tea concentrate and stir well.
3. Squeeze in the citrus juice and stir gently.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with citrus wedges. Sweeten to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a refreshing, low-maintenance treat that’s ready in no time.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creamy goodness of orzo with the bold tastes of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, mint, feta cheese, and artichoke hearts.
3. Add the cooked orzo to the bowl and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time)
Mini Key Lime Pies
Mini Key Lime Pies Recipe Summary: These bite-sized treats are a twist on the classic key lime pie, perfect for dessert or snack time. With a short ingredient list and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying these tangy delights in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– 1/2 cup condensed milk
– Whipped cream and lime zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of mini muffin tin cups.
4. Bake crusts for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, and condensed milk.
6. Pour filling over baked crusts and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow pies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Grilled Halloumi and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled Halloumi and Vegetable Skewers: A flavorful and colorful summer treat that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, sliced into 1-inch rings
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the halloumi cubes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cheese is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Combine the sweetness of strawberries, the brightness of lemon, and the subtlety of basil for a refreshing twist on classic lemonade. This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the strawberry slices with a spoon or a muddler to release their juices.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves and stir gently.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
4. Add the lemon mixture to the pitcher with the strawberries and basil.
5. Stir in the water until well combined.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Elevate your gathering with these elegant and flavorful bites, perfect for a light yet impressive start to any meal. Smoked salmon, creamy avocado, and crunchy cucumber come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 toothpicks
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Top each cucumber slice with a small dollop of mashed avocado.
3. Place a few flakes of smoked salmon on top of the avocado.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of chopped fresh dill over the salmon.
5. Serve immediately, toothpicks ready to assemble the bites.
Cooking Time: None needed! These bite-sized treats are best served fresh and chilled.
Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Pops
Enjoy the perfect combination of creamy chocolate, crunchy banana, and refreshing popsicles with these Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Pops. A simple and fun treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces and insert a popsicle stick into each piece.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Dip each banana piece into the yogurt mixture, coating completely.
4. Place the coated banana pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip the frozen yogurt-covered banana pops into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
7. Place the dipped pops on a piece of parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None (just freeze and dip!)
Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the creamy richness of goat cheese, the sweetness of roasted peppers, and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese, parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the goat cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Summer parties just got a whole lot more delicious! This collection of refreshing recipes is perfect for feeding a crowd. From savory options like Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers, Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Wings, and BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw, to sweet treats like Berry Trifle with Vanilla Custard and Strawberry Basil Lemonade, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the cool and refreshing drinks like Frozen Coconut Limeade and Cold Brew Iced Tea with Citrus Slices! These recipes are sure to make your summer party a hit.
