18 Light Summer Dinner Recipes

This quick-cooking shrimp is tossed in a bright, herby chimichurri sauce for a zesty, protein-packed meal. Perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking, it’s great over a salad or paired with grilled veggies.

Fresh and flavorful, these shrimp tacos are topped with a creamy cilantro lime sauce that adds just the right tang. They’re a breezy weeknight option that feels like a mini vacation in every bite.

These blackened fish tacos bring the heat, cooled off perfectly by a smooth avocado cilantro sauce. They’re light, bold, and ideal for warm summer evenings.

Inspired by the viral sandwich, this salad version ditches the bread but keeps all the bold Italian deli flavors. It’s a fun, no-cook meal that’s packed with protein and crunch.

These bowls feature tender salmon with a spicy kick, served over rice or greens with fresh toppings. It’s a high-protein meal that keeps things light but filling.

Juicy chicken is glazed in a sweet and tangy cherry teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection. These skewers are great for meal prep or summer BBQs.

This salad combines grilled chicken with sweet berries and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing for a refreshing, balanced meal. It’s light, colorful, and ideal for hot days.

Crispy on the outside and flaky inside, this oven-baked salmon is topped with a golden panko crust. It’s an easy way to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying summer dinner.

This takeout-inspired recipe uses the air fryer for a lighter twist on the classic dish. It’s sweet, crispy, and surprisingly simple to make at home.

Loaded with seasoned beef, rice, and veggies, this burrito bowl is finished with a tangy crema for extra flavor. It’s a hearty but fresh option that skips the tortilla and keeps things lighter.

This hybrid salad combines the best of Caesar salad and pasta for a satisfying, chilled dish. It’s a great make-ahead option for summer lunches or potlucks.

Boldly seasoned chicken is layered into a club sandwich with crisp lettuce and juicy tomato. It’s a hearty yet summery handheld that’s great for lunch or dinner.

This pasta is rich in flavor but light on heavy ingredients. A great choice when you want comfort food with a summer-friendly twist.

The air fryer makes this teriyaki-glazed salmon both quick and fuss-free. Serve it with rice or salad for a no-sweat weeknight dinner.

This pasta dish combines lean chicken and broccoli in a simple, satisfying format. It’s lighter than creamy pastas but still fills you up.

A juicy mix of blueberries and grapes tossed with feta and a balsamic drizzle. This refreshing fruit salad is sweet, savory, and pairs perfectly with grilled proteins.

Grilled or rotisserie chicken gets wrapped up with fresh pesto and crisp veggies. These wraps are portable, satisfying, and perfect for picnics or lunch on the go.

Stuffed with marinated chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy yogurt sauce, these wraps deliver big flavor without weighing you down. They’re a great option when you want something quick, fresh, and high in protein.