Go Back
featured image 11921

Easy Summer Meals Done — Zero New Recipe Needed - A Simple Way to Eat Well Fast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Proteins: Rotisserie chicken, canned tuna or chickpeas, eggs, precooked shrimp, tofu or tempeh.
  • Grains and bases: Cooked rice or quinoa (microwave packets are great), couscous, sourdough or pita, tortillas, pre-made pizza crust or flatbread.
  • Greens and veggies: Mixed greens, arugula, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, corn (fresh or frozen), bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, snap peas, avocado.
  • Fruits: Peaches or nectarines, berries, watermelon, mango, lemons, limes.
  • Dairy and extras: Feta, fresh mozzarella, Parmesan, plain Greek yogurt, hummus.
  • Pantry flavor boosters: Olive oil, red wine vinegar, balsamic, Dijon mustard, honey, soy sauce, chili crisp, pesto, canned olives, capers, nuts or seeds.
  • Herbs: Basil, mint, cilantro, parsley.

Method
 

  1. Pick your base. Choose greens, grains, bread, or a combo. Examples: arugula, quinoa, toasted sourdough, or warm tortillas.
  2. Add a ready protein. Shred rotisserie chicken, drain tuna, rinse chickpeas, or sear tofu for 5 minutes. Keep it simple.
  3. Layer summer produce. Slice cucumbers and tomatoes, shave corn off the cob, add peaches with mint, or toss in avocado for creaminess.
  4. Boost with a “flavor two-pack.” Pair two punchy elements: feta + olives, pesto + tomatoes, chili crisp + lime, or capers + lemon zest.
  5. Dress lightly. Whisk 2 parts olive oil to 1 part vinegar with a dab of Dijon, pinch of salt, and a touch of honey. Or use lemon juice and olive oil with a crack of pepper.
  6. Add crunch and finish. Sprinkle toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or crushed pita chips. Add fresh herbs. A little goes a long way.
  7. Serve warm or cold. Most combos are great at room temp, which keeps things easy for picnics or patio meals.