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Summer dinners should be the opposite of stressful. They should be light, easy, and full of fresh flavor. I have put together a week’s worth of simple meals that make the most of the season without keeping you stuck in the kitchen. If you are like me and want to spend more time enjoying the sunshine and less time cooking, then you are going to love these easy dinner ideas.
Summer Cobb Salad
This summery take on a traditional Cobb salad is sure to please. Full of fresh vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, grilled chicken, almonds, and creamy avocado this is a super satisfying and healthy meal. I add blackberries and raspberries for a delicious twist.
Go to the recipe: Summer Cobb Salad
Sheet Pan Nachos
Sheet pan nachos are going to be your new favorite dinner! No one can resist loaded nachos piled high with seasoned ground beef, cheese, sour cream, and toppings.
Go to the recipe: Sheet Pan Nachos
Zucchini Boats
These Italian-style Zucchini Boats are stuffed with sausage, marinara, and melty mozzarella. Kids love them because they taste like pizza! This recipe is my personal favorite, with an Italian-style filling of sausage, marinara, melty mozzarella, and parsley.
Go to the recipe: Zucchini Boats
Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
This copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi tastes just as good, if not better than the real deal! It’s easy to make at home for a fraction of the cost!
Go to the recipe: Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
Summer Pasta Salad
As its name suggests, this is an amazing pasta salad full of summer flavors! Rotini pasta is loaded with fresh tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and salty feta cheese, and tossed with Italian dressing. As a result, you get a satisfying one-bowl meal that can be served at room temperature. I love this Summer Pasta Salad for potlucks!
Go to the recipe: Summer Pasta Salad
Pesto Salmon
Pesto salmon is an easy, healthy dinner that’s just as perfect for a date night in as it is for a weeknight meal! Tender, flaky salmon is paired with herbaceous pesto and Parmesan breadcrumbs for a dinner packed with flavor.
Go to the recipe: Pesto Salmon
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delicious comfort dish that never disappoints. Parmesan-crusted chicken on top of amazing lemon garlic fettuccini pasta ready in 30 minutes!
Go to the recipe: Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
