80 Best Summer Dinner Ideas for the Hottest Days of the Year
Perfect dishes for the family!
Come summer, the last thing you want to be doing is stressing about dinner. After all, it's the season for relaxed backyard gatherings, long days at the pool, and adventurous vacations. That's why we've gathered the best summer dinner recipes all in one place, so you can sit back and relax. From grilled chicken to simple BBQ salads made with seasonal ingredients, these summer dinner ideas are easy meals that come together quickly.
We know that summer can be just as busy as the school year, with various camps, activities and events crowding your calendar. That's why we've also highlighted plenty of make-ahead meals and easy weeknight dinner recipes that make it possible to get something nutritious and tasty on the table. And if it's just too hot to even think about turning the oven or stove on, consider one of the many air fryer recipes or beginner-friendly grilling recipes we've collected here.
Whether you're cooking for the whole family or just need a simple meal for two, there's sure to be something here you'll want to bookmark. Plus, if you're looking for even more seasonal recipes, be sure to take a peek at our roundup of refreshing summer cocktails.
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Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter.
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