Light, Crisp, & Savory: Drink and Food Recipes For Summer
Summer is such a great time to hang outdoors with loved ones, whether it’s by the pool, near your garden, out on the deck, or just out on the lawn. The cool Summer nights are long and lovely, ad a wonderful time to make memories. Though this Summer is a little different than those of past years, there are still many ways to make the most of the season and embrace the good things (*Like the delicious food and cool drinks). :)
Whether you’re looking for some yummy recipe ideas for small family get-togethers, or eager to find some new, fun food ideas for your small family (any night of the week!), we’ve found some great ideas for you!
We love the upscale, fancy feel of the flavor combinations for these recipes and how easy they are to make.. and bonus: how they’re light and refreshing for the Summer weather!
Check them out and try some for your next dinner. Sit outside and enjoy the weather as you sip, taste, and enjoy time with loved ones.
*** Refreshing Drinks ***
— ((Alcoholic Cocktails)):
Grapefruit Sidecar
This unique cocktail might become your new go-to.
https://www....decar-recipe/
Strawberry Jalapeño Mint Julep
These have a real punch of heat.
https://www....julep-recipe/
Rum Sunset
Our rum-ified spin on the classic Tequila Sunrise is simple yet sultry.
https://www....rink-recipes/
Summer Sangria with Watermelon and Pineapple
This easy and refreshing summer sangria with watermelon and pineapple is a fun twist on sangria that utilizes fresh summer produce.
https://www....nd-pineapple/
— ((Fresh & Non-Alcoholic)):
Apple Soda:
Kids love sodas, but their added sugar content and artificial flavors are not good for their health. Now, you can make your kids’ soda intake healthier with this simple recipe. Take half a glass of apple juice and top it up with plain, non-sugared soda. Add crushed ice for refreshing chilly factor. The drink is not only tasty for kids, but is healthy too.
Quick Cream Slushies
This high calorie drink is just the right kind of thing if you want to give an energy boost to your kids. It contains the nourishment of fruits and power of half and half. Cut mango, banana and apple in small size chunks. Make a mix of half a cup of whipping cream and Half and Half each. Put all the ingredients in a blender. Put some crushed ice in a tall glass. Next pour in the blended mixture and serve. Kids will love its creamy, tasty delight.
Watermelon Cooler
This drink has sparkly red color, thanks to watermelon, which can easily entice children to keep up with their hydration level. For this easy drink, you need ideally frozen cubes of watermelon. Otherwise, fresh watermelon will suffice too. Liquefy watermelon and add it to ginger ale for an interesting twist. Serve with crushed ice for that refreshing kick.
Dole Whip Lemonade
Bring island vibes to your backyard with these tropical-flavored slushies, made with pineapple chunks, lemonade, and sweet coconut milk. Don't forget the cherry on top!
https://www....onade-recipe/
*** Delicious Food ***
Yummy Light Bites For The Family (or small gathering):
Sweet and Spicy Grilled Summer Squash
The crosshatch pattern on these squash isn’t just for show (even though it does look cool)! It allows for the salt to fully penetrate the squash and also draws out some of the excess water so that the sweet, tangy glaze can be fully absorbed.
https://www....summer-squash
Frosty Lemonade Pie
Crushed lemon sandwich cookies give this creamy pie extra flavor. It's a wonderful dessert to store in the freezer for nights when you need a low-sugar treat in a hurry.
https://www....lemonade-pie/
Italian Pinwheels
A deliciously fun appetizer for your party needs, these Italian Pinwheels are tasty, fast and a fun addition to your food table!
https://torn...an-pinwheels/
Dilly Cucumber Bites
The perfect light appetizer for a potluck when you want something fresh for spring. These very simple cucumber bites are a delicious and healthier break from the typical indulgent hors d'oeuvres.
(Perfect for placing on some great looking serveware) :)
https://oldt...ucumber-bites
Jalapeno Popper Mexican Street Corn
One of the best things about summer is fresh sweet corn, and this recipe is a definite standout. We love its creamy dressing, crunchy panko coating and spicy jalapeno kick. If you’re really feeling wild, sprinkle these with a bit of cooked and crumbled bacon!
https://www....-street-corn/
Grilled Chicken, Mango & Blue Cheese Tortillas
Here's a fantastic outdoor appetizer to kick-start your summer get-togethers. We double or triple the ingredients when we host parties.
https://www....se-tortillas/
Spicy Lemon Chicken Kabobs
When I see Meyer lemons in the store, it must be spring. I like using them for these easy chicken kabobs, but regular grilled lemons still add the signature smoky tang.
https://www....icken-kabobs/
Watermelon Sorbet
Summertime and watermelon go hand in hand. My melon sorbet is fresh, fruity and without the gluten and eggs you get in many other frozen desserts.
https://www....melon-sorbet/
Star-Spangled Parfaits
The best time for this dessert is mid-summer, when the blueberries are thick in our northern woods. Red raspberries can be added to the mixed berries, too, to brighten up the patriotic colors.
https://www....led-parfaits/