Summer cooking should be like summer living—simple and easy. So as my summer gift to you, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite recipes that are just that.
I originally created all six for Fine Cooking magazine’s Make It Tonight column, recipes you can make in 30 minutes or less. Five have appeared in other posts on this site but one is new—Spicy Steak and Parmesan Sandwiches. All are big on flavor, low on effort, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
In other words, they’re all absolutely summer-licious. Dive in.
Spicy Steak and Parmesan Sandwiches (pictured above)
Seared steak, red onions, mixed greens, and a thick slather of Parmesan- and horseradish-laced mayo, all tucked into a crusty roll. It’s the slather that takes it over the top.
Serve with grilled sweetpotato wedges or a tomato salad. Plus a glass of Grenache or chilled Lambrusco (highly recommended to go with almost anything summer).
Spinach Salad with Chicken, Strawberries, Blue Cheese, and Almonds
A handful of simple ingredients come together to make a meal that’s hearty yet refreshing. And a delightfully different way to enjoy peak-season strawberries.
Serve with crusty bread or Chilled Cucumber and Avocado Soup. Plus a glass of Rosé (off-dry, if you can find it).
Corn and Crab Cakes with Cilantro and Lime Sour Cream
Corn gives these otherwise traditional crab cakes a summery twist, and the simple sauce adds a bright finish.
Serve with tortilla chips and salsa. Plus Mexican beer, Sauvignon Blanc, or Sparkling wine.
Lamburgers with Basil and Blue Cheese Dressing
These aren’t your average burgers. Ground lamb makes them extra savory, blue cheese adds tang, and basil herby depth to every bite.
Serve with grilled zucchini and plenty of napkins. Plus a glass of Syrah or Merlot.
Spice-Rubbed Steaks with Grilled Gazpacho Sauce
A bold, smoky steak plus a sauce made with grilled tomatoes, peppers, onions, and gazpacho seasonings. Perfect for casual evenings outdoors.
Serve with grilled bread to sop up every drop. Plus a glass of Zinfandel or Tempranillo.
Apricot-Vanilla Sparkling Wine Floats
Light, fizzy, fun, and a delicious use for peak-season fruit. But don’t stop at apricots—try these floats with all your favorite stone fruits, whatever’s best at the farmer’s market.
Serve with straws, spoons, and a smile.
Then raise a glass to summer.
More 30-minute recipes for summer:
Lemon-Lime, Corn, and Jalapeno Relish
Smoky Cajun-Inspired Spice Rub
Basil Pesto
Latin-Inspired Caprese Salad
Melon and Chile Salad with Lime
Ham and Brie Baguettes
Heirloom Tomato, Bacon, and Fresh Mozzarella Sandwiches
Pan-Seared Rosemary Rainbow Trout with Cherry Tomato Relish
Pan-Roasted Salmon with Cilantro-Scallion Salsa
Grilled Chicken with Sundried Tomato, Blue Cheese, and Rosemary Butter
Grilled Sausages, Peppers, and Onions with Dijon Sour Cream
Steaks with Lemon-Thyme Butter
Skirt Steak with Chimichurri
