One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies

Summer is all about simplicity, and this recipe embodies that perfectly. Toss chicken pieces and your favorite chopped veggies (potatoes, carrots, broccoli, bell peppers – whatever you have on hand!) with olive oil, herbs (rosemary and thyme are great choices), salt, and pepper. Spread everything on a single baking sheet and roast until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. It’s minimal cleanup, and the whole family gets a balanced meal. You can even prep the veggies ahead of time to save even more time on the actual cooking day.

Quick Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Skip the pasta and opt for zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter, summery twist on shrimp scampi. Sauté shrimp with garlic, butter, lemon juice, white wine (optional, but adds delicious flavor!), and red pepper flakes. Toss with the zoodles (spiralized or thinly sliced) just until they’re warmed through. This dish comes together in under 15 minutes and feels fancy but is incredibly easy.

Sheet Pan Fajitas

Fajitas are a crowd-pleaser, and the sheet pan method makes them a breeze. Slice bell peppers and onions, and toss them with chicken or steak strips (or both!), fajita seasoning, and a little olive oil. Roast on a sheet pan until the veggies are tender and the meat is cooked through. Serve with warm tortillas, your favorite toppings (salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese), and let everyone build their own masterpiece. The best part? Minimal dishes!

Grilled Salmon with Corn on the Cob

Grilling is a summer staple, and this meal is perfect for a warm evening. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (dill, lemon pepper, paprika all work well). Grill the salmon alongside corn on the cob until the salmon is cooked through and the corn is slightly charred. This is a healthy, delicious, and incredibly quick meal that showcases the best of summer produce.

Taco Tuesday (Made Easy!)

Taco Tuesday doesn’t have to be a marathon cooking session. Use pre-cooked ground beef or chicken, or even opt for canned beans for a vegetarian option. Set out a spread of toppings – shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, guacamole – and let everyone customize their tacos. This is a fun, interactive meal that the whole family can enjoy without the fuss.

Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken or Fish

This is the epitome of simple summer elegance. Layer fresh mozzarella slices, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves on a plate. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil. Add grilled chicken or fish for extra protein. This salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a hot day when you don’t want anything heavy.

Black Bean Burgers on the Grill

Looking for a vegetarian option the whole family will love? Black bean burgers are a fantastic choice, especially when grilled. You can make your own from scratch or use store-bought patties. Grill them alongside your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese) and serve on buns with all the fixings. A delicious and satisfying summer meal.

Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables

This is a great make-ahead dish, perfect for picnics or a casual summer dinner. Cook your favorite pasta (rotini, farfalle, or penne work well), then toss it with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion. Add some feta cheese, olives, and a simple vinaigrette for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes.

Simple Chicken Caesar Salad

A classic for a reason! This salad is easy to customize to everyone’s preferences. Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal, or grill or bake chicken breasts. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and croutons, and top with the chicken. You can also add parmesan cheese and other veggies for added flavor and nutrition.

Pizza Night, Simplified

Skip the homemade dough and use pre-made pizza crusts or even naan bread for a quick and easy pizza night. Let everyone choose their own toppings, making it a fun and engaging family activity. This is a great way to use up leftover vegetables or meats, too! Read also about healthy summer family dinners.