Food for Summer: Creative Outdoor Meals
Food, family, and enjoying the outdoors are three of the most welcomed pleasures of summertime. As the warm days of summer arrive, families and friends get together more often to enjoy each other's company. What can you plan to eat during outdoor gatherings?
In this article, we give you: food for summer 101. We’ll look at outdoor meal ideas that are perfect for family gatherings, park meals, and group picnics. From refreshing salads to backyard BBQs, we've got you covered.
Brainstorming Your Summer Food Menu
When planning food for outdoor summer gatherings, consider dishes that are:
Easy to prepare (and transport)
Light and refreshing
Suitable for outdoor serving
Crowd-pleasing for all ages
Let’s consider some creative ideas for your summer outdoor meals. We cover ideas for every category to make it easy.
If you want specific recipes for summer, sign up for the Family Daily Recipe Planning App.
Appetizers and Starters
Start your summer meal off right with these light and flavorful appetizers.
1. Watermelon Feta Skewers
Thread cubes of juicy watermelon and chunks of feta cheese onto small skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
2. Caprese Salad Cups
Fill small, individual cups with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for an easy-to-serve twist on the classic Caprese salad.
3. Grilled Vegetable Platter
Grill an assortment of summer vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Serve with a homemade tzatziki or hummus dip for a healthy and colorful starter.
Main Courses
For the main event, consider these crowd-pleasing meal options.
1. Build-Your-Own Burger Bar
Set up a burger station with various toppings, cheeses, and condiments. Throw some patties on the grill and let people assemble their ideal burger. Include vegetarian options like portobello mushroom caps or plant-based patties to cater to all dietary preferences.
2. Grilled Fish Tacos
Grill some white fish like mahi-mahi or cod, and serve with warm tortillas, fresh slaw, and a zesty lime crema. This light and flavorful option is perfect for seaside evenings.
3. BBQ Chicken Skewers
Marinate chicken chunks in your favorite BBQ sauce, thread onto skewers with colorful bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and onions, and grill to perfection. Serve with a side of corn on the cob for a classic summer meal.
4. Mediterranean Mezze Platter
Create a large platter with an assortment of Mediterranean favorites like hummus, tzatziki, falafel, grilled halloumi cheese, olives, and warm pita bread. This shareable feast is perfect for family-style dining.
Salads and Sides
No summer meal is complete without refreshing salads and sides. Here are some unexpected but delicious ideas to try.
1. Gazpacho Soup
It’s part soup, part drink, and completely refreshing. Gazpacho is a unique, cold Spanish soup made of blended vegetables and flavorful herbs. Chop fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, green onions, garlic, and your favorite herbs, blend them up, and serve with croutons and fresh basil.
2. Grilled Corn Salad
Grill corn on the cob, then cut off the kernels and toss them with cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and a chili-lime dressing for a zesty summer salad.
3. Quinoa Tabbouleh
Mix cooked quinoa with diced cucumber, tomatoes, parsley, mint, and a lemon-olive oil dressing for a light and nutritious side dish.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil and your favorite spices, and bake until crispy. Serve with ranch or homemade avocado dip for a healthier alternative to traditional fries.
Refreshing Drinks
Keep your guests hydrated with these summer-friendly (and family-friendly) drink options.
1. Infused Water Station
Set up a station with pitchers of water infused with various fruits and herbs, such as strawberry-basil, lemon-cucumber, or watermelon-mint.
2. Homemade Lemonade Bar
Prepare a large batch of classic lemonade and offer add-ins like fresh berries, mint leaves, and flavored syrups for customizable refreshments.
3. Iced Tea Varieties
Brew a selection of iced teas, including classic black tea, green tea, and herbal options like hibiscus or peach.
Desserts
End your outdoor summer meal on a sweet note with these cooling, delightful desserts.
1. Grilled Fruit Skewers
Thread chunks of pineapple, peaches, and strawberries onto skewers, grill until lightly caramelized, and serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. For those who don’t like the idea of warm fruit, you can create refreshing “skewers” with raw fruit.
2. Berry Pie
It’s berry season—why not surprise your family with a large blackberry or strawberry pie? Create the crust from scratch or simplify and buy a pre-made dough. Fill with chopped, sweetened berries and bake, allowing to cool completely before serving.
3. Lemon Bars
Layer this classic summer dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make by packing in a cookie crust, covering with lemon mixture, and baking slightly. Top with confectioner sugar and slice into squares.
Tips for Outdoor Summer Meals
To ensure your summer meals are enjoyable for everyone, keep these tips in mind.
Prepare in advance: Do as much prep work as possible before meal time to minimize time spent in the kitchen.
Keep food safe: Use insulated coolers or ice baths to keep cold dishes chilled, and serve hot foods immediately after cooking.
Provide shade: Set up umbrellas or a canopy to protect food and guests from direct sunlight.
Use disposable or outdoor-friendly dinnerware: Opt for lightweight, unbreakable plates and glasses to avoid accidents.
Have a backup plan: Be prepared to move indoors in case of unexpected weather changes.
Family Daily: Summer Meal Plans for Families
Food for summer is all about fresh ingredients, easy preparation, and dishes that bring people together. By incorporating these creative outdoor meal ideas into your summer meals, you'll create memorable outdoor experiences for family and friends. The Family Daily app can help you plan and organize your summer meals, ensuring you have all the ingredients on hand.
Fire up the grill, set the outdoor table, and enjoy the wonderful flavors and company that summer has to offer. Download the Family Daily app today to start planning your perfect summer meals and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
