As the temperature rises and the sun shines bright, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing summer party. And what’s a summer party without delicious food and drinks that keep your guests satisfied and happy? In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for crowds of all sizes. From savory dishes like Grilled Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken and Spicy Grilled Corn with Lime Butter to sweet treats like Berry Trifle with Whipped Coconut Cream and Strawberry Basil Lemonade Spritzer, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a pool party, these recipes are sure to be a hit. And the best part? They’re easy to make in large quantities, so you can focus on enjoying your gathering rather than spending all day in the kitchen. So grab some friends and fire up the grill – we’ve got everything you need for a summer party that will be remembered for years to come.
Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers
Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Experience the sweet and savory combination of grilled pineapple and succulent shrimp on skewers. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Thread pineapple chunks, shrimp, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the mixture from step 2 evenly over the fruit and seafood.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint
This sweet and savory salad combines the juiciness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a hint of fresh mint. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light and refreshing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 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 with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chilled Avocado Cucumber Soup
Beat the heat with this creamy and revitalizing Chilled Avocado Cucumber Soup. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the smoothness of avocados with the refreshing coolness of cucumbers.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, cucumbers, Greek yogurt, chicken broth, and lime juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Chill soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Tropical Mango Salsa with Cinnamon Chips
Escape to a tropical paradise with this sweet and spicy salsa! This refreshing condiment is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mangos, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, garlic, and ginger.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cinnamon Chips:
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
To Make Cinnamon Chips:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut tortillas into triangles or strips.
3. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: None needed, as the salsa and chips are ready in a few simple steps! Enjoy!
Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken. This recipe combines the zesty flavor of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the subtlety of herbs for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle rosemary leaves, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Berry Trifle with Whipped Coconut Cream
This classic trifle recipe gets a tropical twist with the addition of whipped coconut cream, making it perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and whip until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in the unsweetened shredded coconut and vanilla extract.
4. Layer the mixed berries and whipped coconut cream in a 9×13 inch dish or individual glasses.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped coconut cream on top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Caprese Stuffed Avocados
A creative twist on the classic Caprese salad, this recipe combines fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes with creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped basil and salt.
3. Divide the basil mixture evenly among the avocado halves, spooning it into the center of each one.
4. Top each avocado with a slice of mozzarella cheese, followed by a halved cherry tomato.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Grilled Corn with Lime Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with a spicy kick and a tangy lime butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 jalapeños or other hot peppers, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush corn with lime butter mixture.
5. Remove from heat and top with sliced jalapeños.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peach and Prosciutto Flatbread
Peach and Prosciutto Flatbread: A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for a summer evening or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly cut
– 1/4 cup of balsamic glaze
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet.
3. Top the flatbread with sliced peaches, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange prosciutto slices on top of the peaches.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the prosciutto.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted (if using).
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this cold sesame noodle salad combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the crunch of toasted sesame seeds and the sweetness of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp. sesame oil
– 1 tsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. honey
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the cooked noodles, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of the salad and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Frozen Coconut Limeade
Beat the heat with this refreshing and zesty frozen treat! Made with coconut milk, lime juice, and a hint of sugar, this frozen coconut limeade is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup ice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sliced lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine coconut milk, lime juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add ice and blend until the mixture is slushy and frosty.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and garnish with sliced lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This frozen treat is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Slaw
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing recipe that combines the flavors of grilled fish, sweet mango slaw, and crunchy tortillas. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as mahi-mahi or tilapia)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Mango Slaw (see below)
Mango Slaw:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture onto fish fillets.
3. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled fish, Mango Slaw, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bruschetta with Heirloom Tomatoes and Basil
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant bruschetta recipe, featuring sweet heirloom tomatoes and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush toasted bread with olive oil and top each slice with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Toasting baguette: 5-7 minutes
– Assembly and serving: 10 minutes
Strawberry Basil Lemonade Spritzer
This sweet and tangy spritzer is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year. The combination of fresh strawberries, fragrant basil, and zesty lemonade will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the sliced strawberries with a spoon to release their juice and flavor.
2. Add the fresh basil leaves to the pitcher and muddle gently to combine.
3. Stir in the lemon juice until well combined.
4. Add the sparkling water and honey (if using). Stir until the honey is dissolved.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing spritzer is ready to serve immediately.
Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad combines the nutty taste of orzo pasta with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Bites
Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Bites Recipe
A refreshing twist on a classic combination
These sweet and savory bites are perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick appetizer. The creamy halloumi cheese pairs surprisingly well with the juicy watermelon, creating a delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese (about 8 oz), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 cups of seedless watermelon, cubed
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the Halloumi cheese with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, until slightly charred and melted.
4. Meanwhile, grill the watermelon cubes for 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly caramelized.
5. Assemble the bites by placing a grilled Halloumi round on a plate, topping with a few pieces of grilled watermelon, and garnishing with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Bites!
Chilled Gazpacho Shooters
Gazpacho, the traditional Spanish soup, gets a cool and creamy makeover in these bite-sized shooters. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked gazpacho (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine gazpacho, yogurt, cilantro, and lime juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Pour mixture into small glasses or shooter cups.
5. Fill each glass with ice to chill before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just blend and serve!)
Pineapple Teriyaki Burger Sliders
These bite-sized burgers pack a flavorful punch with the sweet and savory combination of pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and beef. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner party, these sliders are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
– Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Divide the ground beef into 8-10 portions and shape into small patties.
3. Grill the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the grill.
5. Assemble the sliders by spreading a spoonful of teriyaki sauce on each bun, followed by a burger patty, some pineapple chunks, and any desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Experience the sweet and savory combination of roasted peppers filled with a creamy goat cheese mixture infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 8 oz goat cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the goat cheese mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Roast for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue roasting for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Blueberry Lavender Lemonade
Elevate your lemonade game with this unique and refreshing twist that combines the sweetness of blueberries, the subtle charm of lavender, and the tanginess of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. In a blender or food processor, puree the blueberries until smooth.
4. Strain the blueberry puree into the pitcher with the lemonade mixture.
5. Add the dried lavender buds to the pitcher and let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Just before serving, stir well and add ice cubes as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in no time.
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing summer party recipes! From grilled skewers and salads to chilled soups and slaws, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with unique flavor combinations like tropical mango salsa or spicy grilled corn. Or, keep things light and easy with refreshing desserts like berry trifle or strawberry basil lemonade spritzer. With these 20 mouth-watering recipes, you’ll be the host with the most at your next summer gathering.
