Summer Recipes

The BEST Easy Summer Recipes from the Garden

If your garden—or your local farmers market—is overflowing with produce, these summer recipes are the perfect way to make the most of it. Each one is quick, vibrant, and lets the natural flavors of the season shine.

1. Chopped Summer Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette

This salad is as refreshing as it is colorful—packed with cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and fresh herbs. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a side for grilled chicken or fish.

Instructions:
In a large bowl, toss together the tomatoes, cucumber, pepper, onion, and herbs. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

2. Roasted Summer Squash & Tomato Pasta

This light and easy pasta dish is packed with roasted squash, juicy tomatoes, and lots of fresh basil. It’s perfect for warm summer evenings.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
• 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss squash and tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until caramelized. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot. Add roasted vegetables, parmesan, and basil. Toss well and serve warm.

3. Strawberry & Herb Bruschetta

A sweet-and-savory twist on the classic, this garden-inspired bruschetta pairs juicy strawberries with basil and mint on crispy toasted bread. It’s great as an appetizer or light summer snack.

Instructions:
In a bowl, mix strawberries with honey, balsamic, basil, and mint. Let sit for 10 minutes. Spread goat cheese or ricotta on toasted baguette slices, then spoon strawberry mixture on top. Finish with a pinch of flaky salt if desired.

These easy, vibrant recipes are the perfect way to use up your summer garden haul—and they come together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just looking for a fresh meal at home, these are recipes you’ll come back to all season long.

Let me know if you try one—or all three!