Summer is here, and so are the days when you want to gather your friends and family for a fun-filled outdoor party. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a casual gathering at the beach, nothing beats the warmth and camaraderie that comes with sharing delicious food and drinks with loved ones. As the mercury rises, we’ve curated 20 refreshing summer party recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From savory bites to sweet treats, these mouthwatering creations are designed to satisfy your guests’ cravings while keeping them cool and refreshed.
In this article, we’ll dive into a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and presentation ideas that will elevate your next outdoor soiree from good to great. Whether you’re hosting a crowd-pleasing potluck or looking for inspiration for your own cookout, our summer party recipes are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
So, without further ado, let’s get started with these 20 refreshing summer party recipes that will make your next gathering an unforgettable experience!
Grilled Pineapple and Coconut Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these sweet and savory skewers, perfect for a tropical-inspired dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden 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 shrimp, pineapple chunks, and shredded coconut onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the sugar-soy mixture evenly over the shrimp and fruit.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Lime
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a burst of freshness from mint and lime. Perfect for hot days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilled Avocado and Cucumber Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing and healthy soup that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, cucumbers, lime juice, Greek yogurt, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil (if using).
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (mostly prep time)
Spicy Mango and Black Bean Salsa
Spicy Mango and Black Bean Salsa Recipe
Get ready to add a burst of flavor to your tacos, grilled meats, or veggies with this sweet and spicy salsa!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, black beans, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with cumin.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Enjoy your Spicy Mango and Black Bean Salsa!
Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Wings
A refreshing twist on traditional grilled chicken wings, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the pungency of garlic for a flavor that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove wings from marinade and brush with olive oil.
5. Grill wings for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Caprese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Elevate your summer gatherings with this colorful and flavorful appetizer. Sweet cherry tomatoes are filled with a creamy Caprese mixture of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes and scoop out a small amount of flesh to make room for the filling.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the Caprese mixture, dividing it evenly among the 12-15 tomatoes.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the filled tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Berry and Yogurt Parfait Cups
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack! This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 6 small cups or glasses
Instructions:
1. In each cup, layer 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt.
2. Add a spoonful of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
3. Drizzle 1/4 teaspoon of honey over the berries.
4. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granola over the honey.
5. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Tips:
– You can customize this recipe by using your favorite berries or adding other toppings like chopped nuts or shredded coconut.
– Make these parfait cups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this vibrant and flavorful side dish. Grilled corn smothered in a zesty chili lime butter is the perfect addition to any BBQ or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until lightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lime juice, hot sauce, and lime zest.
4. Brush chili lime butter onto grilled corn during the last minute of cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tropical Coconut Mojito Mocktails
Experience a taste of paradise with this refreshing mocktail that combines the creamy richness of coconut with the invigorating zing of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups coconut water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– 2-3 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Splash of sparkling water (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine coconut water, lime juice, and honey syrup. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add crushed ice to the pitcher and stir until it’s well combined with the liquid mixture.
3. Muddle the mint sprigs in the pitcher using a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavor.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or lime juice as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired. For an extra fizzy touch, add a splash of sparkling water.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Enjoy your Tropical Coconut Mojito Mocktails!
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the creaminess of peanut butter. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, peanut butter, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Add cooked noodles, chicken, scallions, and sesame seeds to the dressing. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all on a bed of creamy pesto pasta. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
3. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the pesto mixture.
4. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Crab Cake Sliders with Remoulade
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab cake sliders, served with a tangy remoulade dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 mini hamburger buns
– Remoulade (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a small round cake.
4. Place the crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a baked crab cake onto each mini hamburger bun. Serve with remoulade dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri Popsicles
Beat the heat with these refreshing popsicles that combine the sweetness of strawberries and the tanginess of lime.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup white rum (optional)
– Popsicle sticks and molds
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the strawberries until smooth.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the sugar, water, and lime juice until dissolved.
3. Add the strawberry puree to the bowl and stir until combined.
4. If using rum, add it to the mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
6. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Grilled Peach and Burrata Crostini
Elevate your summer gatherings with this sweet and savory appetizer featuring grilled peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and crispy baguette toasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Cut burrata cheese into small balls and place atop toasted crostini.
6. Top with grilled peach wedges and sprinkle with chopped basil (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Citrus Marinated Shrimp Ceviche
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this citrus-marinated shrimp dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, orange juice, grapefruit juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is best served raw.
Balsamic Glazed BBQ Meatballs
A sweet and tangy twist on classic meatballs, these Balsamic Glazed BBQ Meatballs are perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, mix BBQ sauce and balsamic glaze in a small bowl.
7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with the balsamic glaze mixture.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese and Fig Crostini
A sweet and savory combination of flavors, this recipe is perfect for a quick and elegant appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz goat cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 6-8 dried figs, stems removed and chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened goat cheese and chopped herbs until well combined.
3. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and fragrant.
6. Top each crostini with a dollop of goat cheese mixture, a few chopped figs, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cold Brew Iced Tea with Lemon and Mint
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on classic cold brew tea, infused with the brightness of lemon and the coolness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) water
– 1 cup loose-leaf black tea or 6 tea bags
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Combine the water and tea leaves in a large glass container or jug. Steep for at least 12 hours or overnight.
2. Strain the tea leaves from the liquid, discarding the solids.
3. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
4. Add the chopped mint leaves and let steep for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: 12 hours (steeping time) + chilling time
Enjoy your refreshing Cold Brew Iced Tea with Lemon and Mint!
Zucchini and Corn Fritters with Aioli
These crispy zucchini and corn fritters are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer in a new and exciting way. With the added tanginess of aioli, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Aioli (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine zucchini, corn kernels, flour, egg, milk, and salt. Mix well.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm with aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the fritters)
Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Bites
These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of sweet and satisfying. Made with frozen bananas, melted chocolate, and a sprinkle of sea salt, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. Cut bananas into 1-inch pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, or until bananas are frozen solid.
3. Melt chocolate chips or chunks in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Dip each frozen banana piece into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
5. Roll the chocolate-covered banana bite in crushed nuts and sprinkle with sea salt.
6. Place dipped bananas on a new baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply enjoy your delicious Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Bites.
Summary
Looking to impress your guests at your next summer party? Look no further! This collection of 20 refreshing recipes is perfect for crowds. From savory dishes like Grilled Pineapple and Coconut Shrimp Skewers and Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Wings, to sweet treats like Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri Popsicles and Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Bites, there’s something for everyone. Plus, unique cocktails like Tropical Coconut Mojito Mocktails and Cold Brew Iced Tea with Lemon and Mint will keep the party going all day long.
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