10 Fresh Summer Recipes That Make Sense

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Whether you’re firing up the grill or sticking close to the fridge, these summer recipes that make sense are equal parts satisfying and seasonally smart. We’re talking Tuscan Steak with Marinated Cherry Tomatoes, Herb Butter Baked Sweet Potato Fries, Pork Sliders with Grilled Pineapple, Wisconsin Beer Brats, and Vanilla Greek Yogurt Funfetti Popsicles—all ready to keep your summer delicious without overthinking it!

Herb Butter Baked Sweet Potato Fries

overhead photo of Herb Butter Baked Sweet Potato Fries in serving dish
Photo credit: Half Baked Harvest

These herb butter baked sweet potato fries are crispy, healthy, and addicting! Tossed in garlic and herb butter, these fries are the perfect quick and easy side dish or appetizer. Plus, they’re gluten-free and vegetarian, making them a great option for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Herb Butter Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Perfect Roasted Eggplant (Tender, Caramelized!)

Oven roasted eggplant cubes in a bowl
Photo credit: Minimalist Baker

This perfect roasted eggplant recipe transforms the often-misunderstood vegetable into a tender, caramelized delight. With just a few simple ingredients like eggplant, olive oil, and sea salt, you can have a delicious and healthy side dish ready in no time. It’s gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for any season!
Get the Recipe: Perfect Roasted Eggplant (Tender, Caramelized!)

Aperol Spritz

3 Aperol Spritz cocktails ona. metal tray.
Photo credit: Culinary Hill

Transport yourself to Italy with this classic Aperol Spritz recipe! This refreshing cocktail combines Aperol, dry sparkling wine, and a splash of soda water for a delightful aperitif that’s perfect for any celebration. Garnish with an orange peel for an extra touch of zest.
Get the Recipe: Aperol Spritz

Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Pancakes with a Vanilla Coconut Glaze

Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Pancakes with a Vanilla Coconut Glaze
Photo credit: Half Baked Harvest

These Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Pancakes with Vanilla Coconut Glaze are perfect for breakfast or lunch! They combine the flavors of banana bread and chocolate chip pancakes into one delicious dish. The vanilla coconut glaze adds a touch of sweetness that will make you want more.
Get the Recipe: Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Pancakes with a Vanilla Coconut Glaze

Wisconsin Beer Brats

A plate of beer brats with ketchup, mustard, onions, and sauerkraut.
Photo credit: Culinary Hill

These Wisconsin Beer Brats are a simple and delicious crowd-pleaser. With only 4 ingredients, including your favorite beer and bratwurst, you can quickly whip up this tailgate and grilling favorite. Don’t forget the caramelized onions for the perfect finishing touch!
Get the Recipe: Wisconsin Beer Brats

Pork Sliders with Grilled Pineapple

close-up of easy pork sliders with grilled pineapple
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

Fire up the grill and get ready for a flavor explosion with these Pork Sliders with Grilled Pineapple! This recipe combines savory ground pork patties with sweet and tangy grilled pineapple, creating a mouthwatering slider that’s perfect for game day or any BBQ. Top with your favorite smoked cheese and a honey mustard sauce for the perfect bite.
Get the Recipe: Pork Sliders with Grilled Pineapple

20 Minute Heirloom Tomato Basil Chicken Parmesan Bolognese

20 Minute Heirloom Tomato Basil Chicken Parmesan Bolognese | halfbakedharvest.com @hbharvest
Photo credit: Half Baked Harvest

This 20-Minute Heirloom Tomato Basil Chicken Parmesan Bolognese is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It features ground chicken or turkey, fresh tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese for a healthy and delicious dish the whole family will love. Serve over your favorite spaghetti for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: 20 Minute Heirloom Tomato Basil Chicken Parmesan Bolognese

Vanilla Greek Yogurt Funfetti Popsicles

close-up of a vanilla Greek yogurt funfetti popsicle
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

Cool off with these adorable and easy-to-make Vanilla Greek Yogurt Funfetti Popsicles! Requiring only 4 ingredients, these popsicles are a delightful treat for both kids and adults. Enjoy the creamy vanilla flavor combined with the fun burst of rainbow sprinkles!
Get the Recipe: Vanilla Greek Yogurt Funfetti Popsicles

One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta

One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta | halfbakedharvest.com
Photo credit: Half Baked Harvest

This One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta is the perfect quick and easy summer meal! It’s ready in under 30 minutes and uses just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of fresh basil pesto, creamy burrata, and bright lemon creates a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Melty Burrata Lemon Pesto Pasta

Tuscan Steak with Marinated Cherry Tomatoes

A grilled steak topped with a sunny-side-up egg, cherry tomatoes, and herbs on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and a colorful tomato salad in a separate bowl.
Photo credit: Half Baked Harvest

This Tuscan Steak with Marinated Cherry Tomatoes recipe is simple, quick, and packed with flavor. The marinated cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the rich steak. Top it with a fried egg and arugula for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Steak with Marinated Cherry Tomatoes

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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