Refreshing Recipes for the Dog Days of Summer

Beat the Summer Heat with Refreshing Foods and Beverages

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in refreshing foods and drinks that help you stay cool and hydrated. As the temperatures rise, it's important to adjust your diet to include light and hydrating options. Here are some of the best foods and beverages to keep you refreshed and energized during the summer months, complete with recipes and some video tutorials that you can easily make at home.

Light Meals

Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint: A delightful mix of watermelon, feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, red onion, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Avocado Corn Salad: Grilled corn, avocado and cherry tomatoes combine for a summery salad.

Mango and Black Bean Quinoa Salad: Quinoa, black beans, mango and red bell pepper create a vibrant salad.

Strawberry Caprese Salad: Fresh strawberries, mozzarella cheese, pasta, basil leaves, olive oil, salt and pepper.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: Fresh Juicy peaches, creamy burrata, ripe tomatoes and toasted walnuts make for a vibrant summery salad.

Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce: Thin rice noodles, butter lettuce, red cabbage, carrot, cucumber, green onion, cilantro and mint.

Tomato and Avocado Bruschetta: Garden-ripened tomatoes, garlic, lots of fresh basil, and a splash of olive oil on a toasted rustic bread.

Watermelon Feta Salad: A refreshing salad combining sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese.

Grilled Summer Vegetables with Shallot-Herb Vinaigrette: A delicious way to enjoy summer vegetables.

Roasted Chicken and Potatoes with Herby Lemon Salsa: A hearty yet refreshing dish for summer dinners.

Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi with Burst Tomatoes and Sausage: An easy and delicious sheet pan dinner.

 

Frozen Treats

Frozen treats are a delightful way to cool down. Here are a few ideas for homemade goodies:

Homemade Popsicles: Use fruit juices, pureed fruits or yogurt as a base. Add chunks of fresh fruit before freezing for added texture and flavor.

Ice Cream: Whether you prefer traditional dairy ice cream or a vegan alternative, making your own allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Consider adding fresh fruit or mint for a refreshing twist.

Frozen Yogurt: A healthier alternative to ice cream, frozen yogurt can be just as satisfying. Top with fresh fruits, granola, or a drizzle of honey for a treat that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients.

Frozen Fruit: Freeze grapes, berries or slices of banana for a simple, no-prep treat. They make for a cool and refreshing snack that’s easy to grab and go.

Frozen Coconut Milk and Raspberry Sorbet with Blueberry Sauce: A delightful frozen treat perfect for hot summer days.

Cold Soups

Cold soups are an excellent way to enjoy a meal without the need to turn on the stove. Here are a couple of refreshing options:

Chilled Cucumber Soup with Fresh Herbs: Cucumbers, Greek yogurt, dill, mint, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper.

Chilled Avocado Soup: Made with ripe avocado, onion, garlic, red serrano chilis, vegetable broth, fresh cilantro, lime juice and some salt and pepper.

Cucumber Gazpacho: A chilled soup made with tomatillos, cucumber, jalapeño & cilantro, for a cool, refreshing soup.


Refreshing Summer Beverages

Quench your thirst and cool down with these refreshing summer beverages. Here are some alcoholic and non-alcoholic options:

Alcoholic

Classic Mojito: White rum, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, sugar, soda water, and ice.

Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri: Strawberries, white rum, lime juice, sugar, and ice.

Aperol Spritz: Aperol, prosecco, soda water, orange slice, and ice.

Margarita: Ingredients include tequila, lime juice, triple sec, salt, and ice.

Pina Colada: Made with white rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and ice.

Cherry Lime Mojito: A fruity twist on the classic mojito with cherries and lime.

 

Non-Alcoholic

Lemonade: Lemons, sugar, water, and ice.

Iced Hibiscus Tea: Dried hibiscus flowers, water, honey, lime juice, and ice.

Watermelon Agua Fresca: Watermelon, lime juice, water, sugar, and ice.