This is the perfect alternative with summer just around the corner since the last thing we need is the additional heat. These dishes are light, refreshing, and on the cooler side. I guarantee this list will have some of the best meals that you’ve ever made. Get ready to hop in the kitchen and start cooking!
1. No-Bake Energy Balls
If you’re anything like me and are constantly looking for something to snack on, then this recipe is for you. These delicious energy balls are super tasty and filling. As long as you have oats on hand, the rest of the ingredients are up to you. Don’t be scared to throw your own spin on the recipe specific to your tastebuds.
2. Yogurt Parfaits
Sometimes you need something creamy, fruity, and crunchy all at the same time. Yogurt parfaits are just the ticket. This recipe is my go-to breakfast for when I’m running low on time. Simply make a couple of these bad boys the night before and pop them in the fridge. Feel free to top this dish with any fruit you might have on hand.
3. No-Bake Granola Bars
These no-bake granola bars are ideal for a quick pick me up when you find yourself low on energy. There are so many options that you can throw into the mix to customize this recipe. Everything from nuts and seeds to chocolate and dried fruit tastes great. I recommend trying the cranberry orange granola recipe if you’re stuck on which one to make.
4. Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie
This easy peanut butter and banana smoothie only takes 5 minutes to make during those busy mornings. If you’re looking to get away with having dessert for breakfast, then this recipe is for you! The creaminess of the banana paired with the richness of the peanut butter is a match made in heaven.
5. Avocado Greek Salad
This salad loaded with yumminess is the perfect lunch. Filled with feta, olives, and a ton of veggies, it’s sure to fill you up. As soon as you take a bite of this amazing recipe, you’ll be swept off to the Mediterranean in no time. While you can opt to leave the avocado out, I recommend adding it in to really bring the dish together!
6. Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich
This recipe is perfect for when you have no clue what to do with leftover chicken. Simply chop it up and make a wonderful chicken salad sandwich. The creaminess from the mayo mixed with the crunchiness of the celery creates the perfect texture. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to mayo, try out some yogurt instead.
7. Avocado Cucumber Tuna Salad
While this might come off as a surprising combination, hear me out! This avocado cucumber tuna salad is the perfect lunch idea to try out. The freshness from the lemon and cilantro will have you ready to take on whatever the day throws at you. Not only is it loaded with healthy veggies, it’s also packed with protein.
8. Caprese-Stuffed Avocados
These Caprese-stuffed avocados are ideal if you’re looking for a recipe to wow your dinner guests. This recipe is the definition of summer on a plate. Not only do they look absolutely stunning when plated, they’re also mouthwatering! Make sure to top these off with a light balsamic drizzle for some added flavor.
9. Caprese Avocado Toast
I seriously had to reevaluate my life the second I tried this recipe. How was I missing out on such an amazing combination of flavors and textures? The softness of the avocado paired with the crunchiness of the bread and the creaminess of the mozzarella is a match made in heaven. Don’t forget to add a few basil leaves on top to finish off the dish!
10. Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that are the most simple to make. Rather than creating overly complex dishes in the kitchen, it’s time to stick to the basics. Simply pour the delicious honey lime dressing on your favorite fruits and enjoy. Could there be anything more delicious yet incredibly simple? I doubt it!
11. Nectarine Summer Salad with Shredded Chicken and Avocado
My mouth is already watering just thinking about this recipe. The sweetness of the nectarine paired with the creaminess of the avocado is everything you need. Be sure to add some toasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor. If you’re looking for a light meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy, this one’s for you!
12. Chickpea Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, Avocado and Easy Mediterranean Dressing
This Mediterranean chickpea salad is an ideal meal prep recipe that can be stored for days if you wait to add the avocado. The garbanzo beans are loaded with protein and are sure to keep you full throughout the day. Want to hear the best part? It only takes 15 minutes to make and is filled with goodness.
13. Gazpacho
If you’re worried about this recipe tasting like soggy salsa, you can stop. I can guarantee that this gazpacho recipe is perfectly blended into smooth perfection. Is there anything that screams summer more than an amazing gazpacho recipe? Pro Tip: Before devouring this amazing recipe, don’t forget that it needs time to chill!
14. Rotisserie Chicken Salad
This rotisserie chicken salad is ideal on a sandwich, mixed with greens, or simply on it’s own. This dish is super easy to make and is also customizable. For example, while the recipe calls for almonds, you can always switch them out for cashews or pecans. Feel free to add your signature spin on the recipe by adding your most loved veggies into the mix.
15. Chilled Greek Yogurt Soup
Now, before you run away, hear me out! This Middle Eastern cuisine is similar to gazpacho or watermelon soup, but it’s much creamier. The Greek yogurt is mixed with milk to create a luscious soup-like consistency. This recipe is ideally served with a slice of toasted bread to be dipped into the soup.
16. Chicken Waldorf Salad
Happen to have some leftover rotisserie chicken? This recipe is here to put it to use! This sweet and savory chicken salad is sure to never disappoint. The crisp of the apples paired with the crunchiness of the walnuts is sure to please. The different flavors and textures in this recipe are to die for.
17. Salmon Salad Sandwich
Not only is this recipe super light, but it’s also bursting with freshness! While the star of the show is definitely the canned salmon, the other flavors still manage to make their cameo. Serve up this yummy salad on a sliced bun paired with fresh veggies. I love pairing this dish with a warm soup on the side for maximum satisfaction.
18. Chia Pudding
Need a filling breakfast that doubles as a quick grab-n-go? You’re in luck. This chia pudding is ideal to make the night before and only requires three ingredients. Simply grab some almond milk, chia seeds, honey, and you’re good to go! Don’t forget to add your most loved fruits and nuts into the mix!
19. Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
This recipe will leave you satisfied and filled with energy to take on the day. With only five ingredients and taking just 5 minutes to make, this recipe will basically make itself and be ready for you the next morning. Not only is this recipe filled with yumminess, but it’s a pick-me-up with 15 grams of protein.
20. Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This shrimp and avocado salad is the absolute definition of freshness. Not only is it filled with amazing ingredients, but it’s also paleo, keto, gluten-free and pescetarian. It’s basically a tangy and savory spin on ceviche that is sure to leave you refreshed. Don’t believe me? Give it a try yourself!
21. Grape Salad
I love whipping up this simple grape salad for those days where I’m looking to get away with eating dessert for breakfast. If you’re not a lover of grapes that’s completely fine. Instead, add in your favorite fruit or berries instead. This recipe is sure to have you licking the bowl clean and ready for more!
22. Pistachio Fluff Salad
You’re missing out if you haven’t tried this pistachio fluff salad yet. Marshmallows, Cool Whip, and crushed pineapple? Yes, please! I love finishing this recipe off with some maraschino cherries for that extra sweetness. Pro Tip: Aim to make this recipe the night prior since it requires a 5-hour cool-down period.
23. Oreo Cookie Balls
I guarantee that the second you make these no-cook Oreo cookie balls, they’ll all disappear in minutes. This recipe is such a crowd-pleaser that you might not even get the chance to try it! Want to hear the best part? It only requires three ingredients!
24. Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna
The next time you’re stuck on what to bring to a potluck, give this recipe a shot. It’s sure to please even the pickiest taste buds, as it’s so simple yet so satisfying. Everyone loves a classic strawberry cheesecake, even if it’s in a fun lasagna form!
25. No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake
This recipe is perfect for any occasion and will leave everyone begging for more. There’s nothing better than cheesecake paired with some yummy Oreo chunks to really get the party going. Be sure to throw this bad boy into the fridge overnight in order to get the best consistency! Click on a star to rate it!
Average rating 3.8 / 5. Vote count: 4 No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.
Share on social media: Let us improve this post!
