As summer starts to wind down, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut when it comes to cooking. But there’s no need to let the warmth fade from your plates just yet! August brings with it an abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients that are perfect for whipping up delicious and refreshing dishes. From light salads to sweet treats, we’ve rounded up 19 mouth-watering recipes to keep you cool on even the hottest days.
In this collection, you’ll find a mix of classic summer staples (hello, grilled shrimp skewers!) and innovative twists on old favorites (like watermelon gazpacho!). Whether you’re looking for something light and healthy or indulgent and decadent, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, fire up the grill, slice up some fresh produce, and get ready to savor the flavors of late summer!
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Combine the flavors of grilled peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and fresh basil in this delightful summer salad. Perfect for a light and refreshing dinner or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
3. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled peaches, burrata cheese, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. Toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Corn Fritters
A delicious summer twist on traditional fritters, these zucchini and corn fritters are perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With the sweetness of corn and the moisture of zucchini, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine zucchini, corn kernels, flour, salt, baking powder, and paprika.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the oil and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove fritters from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes to fry all the fritters.
Watermelon Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this revitalizing twist on traditional gazpacho, featuring sweet and refreshing watermelon as the star ingredient. This chilled soup is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine watermelon, bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. With the blender running, slowly add olive oil in a thin stream until fully incorporated.
4. Chill soup in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Just before serving, stir in white wine vinegar (if using).
6. Serve cold, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This chilled soup is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Heirloom Tomato Caprese
Celebrate the sweetness of summer with this classic Italian-inspired salad featuring vibrant heirloom tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
4. Spoon the balsamic vinegar over the salad in small amounts, allowing it to pool slightly between the tomatoes and cheese.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh.
Honey-Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Add a touch of tropical flavor to your outdoor gatherings with these sweet and tangy shrimp skewers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-lime mixture evenly onto the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Corn and Basil Ricotta Tart
This Corn and Basil Ricotta Tart is a perfect dessert for warm weather gatherings. With the sweetness of corn, the freshness of basil, and the creaminess of ricotta, this tart is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together corn kernels, ricotta cheese, and honey. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil over the corn mixture.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cucumber Avocado Salad
This simple yet flavorful salad combines the cooling properties of cucumber with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for hot summer days. With just a few ingredients and minutes to prepare, you’ll be enjoying this refreshing treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, just prepare and serve!
Blackberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail
Escape to a warm summer evening with this refreshing Blackberry Bourbon Smash cocktail. The perfect blend of sweet and tangy, this drink combines the rich flavors of bourbon with the luscious sweetness of blackberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 lime wedges
– Ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries with the simple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the bourbon and fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Squeeze a lime wedge over the cocktail and drop it in.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in under 30 seconds.
Balsamic Grilled Vegetable Platter
A colorful and flavorful platter featuring a medley of grilled vegetables infused with the rich flavor of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large red onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add sliced vegetables and toss to coat.
3. Grill vegetables in batches, if necessary, until tender and lightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Brush balsamic glaze over grilled vegetables during the last minute of grilling.
5. Arrange grilled vegetables on a platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini
Fresh Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini: A Sweet and Savory Treat
These elegant crostini are perfect for a summer evening or as a unique appetizer for your next gathering. The sweetness of the fresh figs pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the goat cheese, making for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 ripe Brie cheese (or similar soft-ripened goat cheese), crumbled
– 2-3 fresh figs, stems removed and sliced into quarters
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Spread a small amount of crumbled goat cheese onto each toasted baguette round.
4. Top with a few slices of fresh fig, followed by a drizzle of honey.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Charred Okra with Lemon Tahini
Charred Okra with Lemon Tahini: A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the smoky sweetness of charred okra with the creamy tanginess of lemon tahini. Perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh okra, stems removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons water
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place okra on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the okra, sprinkling with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until okra is tender and slightly charred.
6. While okra is roasting, mix lemon juice, garlic, tahini, and water in a small bowl.
7. Remove okra from oven and brush with the lemon-tahini mixture.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mango Salsa Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on classic guacamole! Sweet and tangy mango salsa adds a burst of flavor to creamy avocados.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the mango salsa into each avocado half.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Smoky Eggplant Dip with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this smoky eggplant dip, perfectly paired with crispy pita chips. This flavorful and easy-to-make recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplants, then sprinkle garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until eggplants are tender and collapsed.
5. Allow to cool slightly before scooping flesh into a bowl.
6. Mix in Greek yogurt and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve warm with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Peach and Blueberry Crumble
Peach and Blueberry Crumble Recipe: A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of juicy peaches and plump blueberries with a crunchy oat topping.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups mixed peaches and blueberries, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together peaches and blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
5. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the fruit filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter
This recipe combines the rich flavor of grilled salmon with a tangy and aromatic herb butter, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, dill, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread herb butter on each fillet.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and can be easily customized to suit your taste. With its vibrant colors and tangy flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow-tie, penne, or fusilli)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and sliced red onion.
3. Add cooked pasta, feta cheese (if using), olive oil, and white wine vinegar to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ratatouille with Summer Squash
This recipe combines the sweetness of summer squash with the bold flavors of traditional ratatouille, perfect for a light and satisfying summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium summer squash (such as zucchini or yellow crookneck), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant, summer squash, bell pepper, onion, and garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Add roasted vegetables to the tomato sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Cold Brew Iced Tea with Citrus
Elevate your tea game with this simple and revitalizing recipe that combines the smoothness of cold brew tea with the brightness of citrus. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) water
– 1 cup loose-leaf black tea (or 6 tea bags)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup honey or to taste
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Combine the quart of water and 1 cup of loose-leaf black tea (or 6 tea bags) in a large glass pitcher or container.
2. Steep for at least 8 hours or overnight, allowing the tea to infuse and chill.
3. Strain the tea into another pitcher or container using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add the orange juice, lemon juice, and honey (or to taste). Stir until dissolved.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: At least 8 hours or overnight
Lemon Basil Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet is perfect for hot summer days. With the brightness of lemon and the subtle sweetness of basil, this dessert is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the solids (lemon pulp).
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + freezing time
Summary
As August arrives, we’re excited to share 19 refreshing recipes that capture the essence of late summer. From Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad to Watermelon Gazpacho, these recipes showcase the best of the season’s flavors. Savor sweet treats like Honey-Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers and Peach and Blueberry Crumble, or enjoy lighter options like Cucumber Avocado Salad and Zucchini and Corn Fritters. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad or something more adventurous like Smoky Eggplant Dip with Pita Chips, there’s something for everyone.
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