Healthy Summer Recipes to Make in 30 Minutes or Less

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Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy more food. So many things are in season during the warmer months, so take full advantage of every fresh, nutritious meal possible. These are some of the most delicious summer recipes you can make in under half an hour — and they can fit into just about any schedule.

Delicious Recipes for a Summer Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so start with something delicious and nutritious. These recipes are some of the best options you can customize to your liking or according to your dietary needs.

1. Poached Egg and Avocado Breakfast Salad

This recipe covers many of the basics you need for a healthy meal. It’s also quick to throw together since it only requires six ingredients you may already have in your pantry. The only tricky part is you’ll need to poach the eggs — it should be easy with some practice.

The combined carbs and protein will give you the energy to keep going all day. Get ready for the explosion of flavor from the leafy vegetables and juicy tomatoes alongside the richness of the avocado and poached eggs.

2. Orange and Dark Chocolate Yogurt Bowls

If you’re not fond of savory meals in the morning, this recipe lets you go in the opposite direction. With indulgent flavors and only two steps in the recipe, you’ll be glad you chose to try something new.

It’s nothing like your traditional breakfast, bringing a bit of spontaneity your household might not have been expecting in their morning. Plus, it’s a great way to satisfy any sweet tooth while still partaking in the healthiest option.

3. Almond Pulp Pancakes

Have almond pulp left over at the end of the week? These vegan, gluten-free pancakes clock in at less than 30 minutes of cooking time and are much healthier than other kinds because of the lack of flour. If you don’t have leftover almond pulp, you can use ground almonds to create your flapjack stack.

From there, all you need to do is follow the recipe and add your favorite toppings. You just might make a pancake bar part of your weekly routine and allow your household to use any toppings they want on their almond pulp pancakes.

Nutritious Summer Recipes for Lunch

Lunch is the perfect opportunity to eat something a little lighter — especially if you have a larger breakfast and anticipate a big dinner. When you’re feeling sluggish, reach for one of these recipes to pick you up and keep you going until your day is done.

1. Farmers Market Street Tacos

Produce is always freshest when you buy it directly from the source. This recipe calls for a certain few — like bok choy and green onions — but you could substitute them with whatever you find in your community.

This recipe can also fit anyone’s dietary needs. If someone in your household doesn’t eat meat, their tacos can have everything else you found on your adventure.

Shopping locally ensures you get the freshest ingredients while supporting the people who work hard to bring you the best food possible. Your money will typically go to a family instead of a big corporation.

2. Lemony Lentil Salad With Feta

Lentils are a great source of protein, making this meal one of the most delicious and nutritious on the list. It’s also one of the easiest because it doesn’t require additional dishes.

Combine everything in one bowl to make it easier to manage and lessen your clean-up. Though feta is a staple of this dish, you can use a dairy-free substitute if you don’t eat cheese.

3. Lemon Tarragon Chicken Sandwich

If you love a satisfying sandwich, this recipe is for you. Bake your chicken for 20-30 minutes in a pan with broth, lemon juice, olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, tarragon, and celery. Put the chicken on your choice of bread with lettuce, tomato, and any condiments you like. 

The citrusy flavor is perfect for hot summer days, and the protein and carbs will keep you full and satisfied until dinner. 

Summer Dinner Recipes Sure to Please

Quick dinners are key to not burning yourself out or adding more heat to your house during the warmest months of the year. These recipes will delight your entire household while allowing you to pull out all the stops for a memorable dinner.

1. Stuffed Peppers

Everyone who likes peppers can enjoy a stuffed pepper recipe — especially since you can fill them with whatever you want, according to your dietary needs. For a bit of spice, add some jalapeños to your mixture. Lime can bring a bit of a zing to the rice, making it more flavorful.

From there, add your household’s favorite veggies and garnishes. If you’re just making food for yourself, you can change the extras every time.

2. Beef-Veggie Kebabs

Sitting at right around half an hour of cooking time, these beef kebabs will satisfy any carnivore in your household while ensuring they get their vegetables. The kebabs rest on a bed of orzo, which can help fill you up without harming your body.

Remember to soak the wooden skewers for about half an hour before using them so they don’t splinter into the food. Though it might take some preparation, this dinner will be a hit.

3. Zucchini Pesto Pasta

This yummy recipe asks you to make your own pesto, which can be a fun experiment if it’s your first time doing it. If you want to save even more time, canned pesto is always an option — the dish will taste just as great.

Craveable Summer Recipes for Dessert

Healthy desserts often don’t sound too appealing, but these fun recipes can help everyone treasure their sweets while only spending some prep time to put them together.

1. Fruit Pizza

The kids in your household will love this fruit pizza and possibly eat it without complaint. Even if it’s healthy, it looks like a fun treat and presents nutritious food innovatively.

The crust is made of sugar cookie dough, ensuring anyone with a sweet tooth will be satisfied while getting proper nutrients. Feel free to use whatever combination of fruit you want in this pizza.

2. Ice Box Cake

This vegan dessert takes some preparation, but the results are worth it. On a night when you don’t have much going on, you can prepare this delicious dessert so it’s ready whenever you’re craving something cold.

The assembly is pretty basic —  once you’re used to working in layers, it becomes a mindless task you may find relaxing. While you can enjoy it year-round, it’s a perfect summer recipe because you don’t need to bake anything.

3. Strawberry Shortcake

This homemade strawberry shortcake is better than anything you can buy at the store. Its crispy texture will become an immediate delight in your household and the burst of flavor might have them returning for seconds!

The recipe takes about half an hour, so it’s a great way to spend your time as you’re winding down for the evening. You can even add other assorted berries to make the cakes taste better and have more nutritional value.

Add to Your Recipe Collection This Summer

Though these recipes might be new, they could be good enough for you to add to your permanent rotation throughout the year. You never know when a meal will click with you — or when you’ll want to make it for all your loved ones!