Summer is the perfect time to embrace fresh, vibrant flavors and easy-to-prepare meals. The Allrecipes Summer Magazine is a treasure trove of inspiring recipes, designed to help you make the most of the season’s bounty. From light and refreshing salads to grilled masterpieces and delightful desserts, this guide will walk you through some of the best new recipes from Allrecipes, providing detailed steps and instructions to ensure your culinary adventures are a success.
**1. Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint-Lime Dressing**
This unexpected combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The sweetness of the grilled watermelon complements the salty feta, while the mint-lime dressing adds a refreshing zing.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups cubed watermelon, about 1-inch thick
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
* 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup lime juice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Watermelon:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the watermelon cubes lightly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. **Grill the Watermelon:** Place the watermelon cubes on the grill grates and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear. Be careful not to overcook, as the watermelon will become mushy.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the grilled watermelon, feta cheese, mint leaves, and red onion.
5. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the mint-lime dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side dish or a light meal.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
* Substitute goat cheese for feta cheese for a tangier flavor.
* Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
* If you don’t have a grill, you can pan-sear the watermelon in a hot skillet.
* Use balsamic glaze instead of the mint-lime dressing for a sweet and tangy twist.
**2. Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa**
These tacos are bursting with flavor and are perfect for a casual summer gathering. The spicy shrimp is balanced by the sweet and tangy mango salsa, creating a delightful culinary experience.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 ripe mango, diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 12 small corn tortillas
* Optional toppings: avocado slices, sour cream, hot sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Shrimp:** In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. **Cook the Shrimp:** Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.
3. **Make the Mango Salsa:** In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.
4. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven according to package directions.
5. **Assemble the Tacos:** Fill each tortilla with the spicy shrimp and top with the mango salsa.
6. **Add Toppings:** Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, sour cream, or hot sauce.
7. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy these flavorful tacos with a side of rice and beans.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time.
* Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
* Add a squeeze of lime juice to the shrimp while cooking for extra flavor.
* Substitute pineapple for mango in the salsa for a different tropical twist.
* Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas if preferred.
* Grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
**3. Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado and Cilantro-Lime Dressing**
This vibrant salad is a celebration of summer flavors. The smoky grilled corn is combined with creamy avocado and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing, creating a dish that is both healthy and delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 ears of corn, husks removed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 ripe avocados, diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
* 1/4 cup lime juice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Grill the Corn:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. **Grill the Corn:** Place the corn on the grill grates and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred.
3. **Cut the Kernels:** Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly. Use a knife to cut the kernels off the cob.
4. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, diced avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
6. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the cilantro-lime dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
7. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy this colorful salad as a side dish or a light meal.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Soak the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out.
* Add crumbled cotija cheese or feta cheese for a salty touch.
* Include grilled bell peppers or zucchini for added vegetables.
* Use a store-bought cilantro-lime dressing to save time.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
**4. No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars**
These decadent bars are the perfect summer dessert. They require no baking and are bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. The creamy cheesecake filling is complemented by a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
* 1/2 cup strawberry jam
* 2 tablespoons water
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
3. **Pour the Filling:** Pour the cream cheese filling over the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
4. **Chill:** Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set.
5. **Prepare the Strawberry Topping:** In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, strawberry jam, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are softened and the jam is melted, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool slightly.
6. **Top the Bars:** Spread the strawberry topping over the cheesecake filling.
7. **Chill Again:** Refrigerate for another 30 minutes to allow the topping to set.
8. **Cut and Serve:** Cut the cheesecake bars into squares and serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use pre-made graham cracker crust to save time.
* Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cheesecake filling for a richer dessert.
* Substitute raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for strawberries in the topping.
* Use sugar-free strawberry jam for a lower-sugar option.
* Add a splash of almond extract to the filling for a different flavor profile.
**5. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken**
This simple yet flavorful chicken recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue. The lemon herb marinade infuses the chicken with bright, fresh flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Marinade:** In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for several hours.
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
4. **Grill the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts on the grill grates and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. **Let Rest:** Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
6. **Serve:** Serve the grilled chicken with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or salad.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for faster and more even cooking.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
* Use other herbs, such as oregano, basil, or parsley, in the marinade.
* Grill the chicken over indirect heat for a more tender and juicy result.
* Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
**6. Peach and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze**
This elegant salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy peaches and creamy burrata are perfectly complemented by the tangy balsamic glaze and fresh basil.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 ripe peaches, sliced
* 8 ounces burrata cheese, drained
* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
* 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Arrange the Peaches and Burrata:** Arrange the peach slices on a platter or individual plates. Place the burrata cheese on top of the peaches.
2. **Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
3. **Sprinkle with Basil:** Sprinkle the salad with chopped basil.
4. **Season with Salt and Pepper:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy this refreshing salad as an appetizer or a light meal.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use nectarines instead of peaches.
* Add prosciutto or other cured meats for a more substantial salad.
* Use a different type of soft cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese.
* Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
* Drizzle with honey instead of balsamic glaze for a sweeter flavor.
**7. Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream**
This classic summer dessert is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The sweet and tart berries are topped with a buttery biscuit crust and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 1 teaspoon lemon juice
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup sugar (for topping)
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/2 cup milk
* Vanilla ice cream, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Berry Filling:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
2. **Prepare the Biscuit Topping:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup sugar (for topping), baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. **Assemble the Cobbler:** Pour the berry filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit topping over the berry filling.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the berry filling is bubbling.
5. **Let Cool:** Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving.
6. **Serve:** Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use frozen berries if fresh berries are not available.
* Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the berry filling.
* Use a store-bought biscuit mix to save time.
* Substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar in the topping for a richer flavor.
* Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the topping.
These recipes are just a taste of the culinary delights found in the Allrecipes Summer Magazine. So, grab your copy, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a summer filled with delicious and memorable meals. Enjoy your culinary journey!