It’s officially summer — the season of endless grilling, trips to the beach and, of course, fresh summer produce. Now’s the time to incorporate ultra-fresh ingredients in your cooking, and layer on the seasonings to create unforgettable meals.
We’ve got all the summer cooking inspo you need. Mix and match these 11 recipes to create the perfect summer menu for family cookouts, relaxing nights in, and everything in between.
Summertime Slaw
Summer is the season for salads — and if you’re seeking a staple slaw recipe, look no further. This traditional take on slaw delectably crunchy and creamy, and features a tangy homemade dressing that comes together in minutes. Serve it as a side salad, or as a topping for pulled pork or BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Meet the ultra-refreshing salad you’ll want to serve all summer! Made with juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber and salty feta, this salad pairs contrasting flavors for the ultimate seasonal side. A basil and mint-infused dressing adds complexity to the salad, while balsamic white vinegar adds just enough tang.
Supreme Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a must-have at any summer cookout, and this flavorful option is sure to become a family favorite. It pairs crisp summer veggies with tender pasta, then amps up the flavor with McCormick Perfect Pinch Gluten Free Salad Supreme Seasoning. This recipe tastes best made ahead of time, so it’s ideal for easy entertaining.
Grilled Mexican-Style Corn on the Cob with Lime Mayonnaise
Nothing says summer like corn on the cob, and this Mexican-inspired recipe puts a flavor-packed twist on a classic. Inspired by elotes, or Mexican street corn, this dish is smoky, spicy and citrusy, thanks to a homemade lime-infused mayo. Enjoy ‘em as a snack on their own or as a side dish.
Better Burgers
Everyone knows that summer officially starts when the first burgers hit the grill — and this is a staple recipe you’ll want to serve all summer long. Classic ground beef gets a serious flavor upgrade from Lawry's Seasoned Salt, along with French's Classic Worcestershire Sauce for savory flavor.
Grilled Moroccan Spice Chicken
Get ready for the best grilled chicken of your life. This Moroccan-inspired recipe balances savory, earthy, citrusy and sweet notes in its spiced honey and lemon marinade. Bright and warming, it works equally well as an entree on its own, as a topping for salad or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps.
Caribbean Grilled Steak
Need to feed a crowd? This Caribbean-inspired steak is a showstopper. It’s seasoned with a medley of spices — cumin, garlic, crushed red pepper and more — then brightened up with lime juice for a refreshing main course. Add grilled pineapple skewers, and you’ve got a main and a dessert all at once.
Lobster Rolls
Say hello to the seaside! Whether you’re actually at the beach — or you just wish you were — these homemade lobster rolls will be a hit. This recipe keeps it simple, using a blend of butter, parsley and scallion to let the subtle notes of the lobster take center stage.
Red Summer Sangria
Sangria + sunsets on the deck = a match made in heaven. And this strawberry- and peach-infused sangria offers a warm-weather take on a classic cocktail. It’s light and satisfying, leaning on peach schnapps and orange juice for summer flavor. And a few drops of McCormick Pure Lime Extract add brightness in an instant.
Summer Fruit Tart
What’s your favorite summer fruit? With this tart, you don’t need to choose. Peaches and blueberries combine for a sweet and comforting tart with plenty of visual contrast — perfect for posting on social media. Ground ginger and cinnamon add coziness and warmth, without overshadowing the fruit.
Key Lime Pie
With its rustic graham cracker crust, sunny lime hue and light-as-air whipped topping, this key lime pie is welcome at any picnic, cookout and get-together. It’s creamy and comforting without being too heavy. And, while it looks impressive, it takes just 10 minutes of active prep.
Continue the Summer Cooking Fun
Here are more delicious summer recipes that you'll love:
