As the summer sun begins to set, it's time to savor the last moments of this vibrant season. And what better way to bid farewell to summer than with a delectable array of recipes that celebrate the flavors of the season?
From refreshing salads bursting with juicy fruits to grilled delights that capture the essence of backyard barbecues, this blog post is your ultimate guide to the best end of summer recipes. Get ready to indulge in the final taste of summer before autumn takes its rightful place. So, grab your apron and let's dive into these mouthwatering creations that will leave you craving for more.
1. End-Of-Summer Macaroni Salad
End-Of-Summer Macaroni Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that is perfect for the end of summer. It combines macaroni noodles with a creamy mixture of mayo, sour cream, and dry ranch dressing. The salad is loaded with diced vegetables like carrots, celery, tomatoes, broccoli, and cauliflower, adding a refreshing crunch.
Shredded Cheddar cheese adds a creamy and cheesy element. This savory salad is versatile and can be customized with additional ingredients from your garden. It is a great option for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for summer gatherings.
2. End of Summer Chicken Chili
End of Summer Chicken Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish packed with fresh summer vegetables and herbs. The addition of sweet corn kernels adds a delightful sweetness and texture.
This chili is a perfect way to savor the last tastes of summer before transitioning into the fall season. It pairs well with warm Honey Cornbread Muffins for a complete and satisfying meal.
3. End of Summer Buddha Bowl
The End of Summer Buddha Bowl is a nutrient-packed and filling meal that utilizes leftover summer veggies. It features plant-based protein from chickpeas and quinoa, along with an array of colorful and fresh ingredients such as kale, lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, avocado, sunflower seeds, and pistachios.
The bowl is topped with a homemade strawberry and peach dressing, adding a sweet and spicy touch. This bowl is a complete meal in itself and a delicious way to bid farewell to the summer season.
4. Margo's End of Summer Cocktail
Margo's End of Summer Cocktail is a refreshing Pimm's cup variation that celebrates the changing of seasons. With a twist of pineapple juice, fino dry sherry, and St. Germain, this cocktail is fruity without being overly sweet.
Served over a large ice sphere, it stays chilled without diluting the drink. Garnished with cucumber slices and assorted berries, it's a perfect way to bid farewell to summer.
5. Pineapple Summer Cocktail
The Pineapple Summer Cocktail is a cool and refreshing drink that is perfect for the end of summer. Made with pineapple, honey, sparkling water, and your choice of rum or vodka, this cocktail is gluten-free, vegan, and has no added sugar. It can be customized with variations like strawberries, blueberries, or watermelon.
Serve it with cheese and crackers or cucumber sandwiches for a light and refreshing afternoon get-together. The cocktail can also be made in a big batch and kept in the freezer for easy refills. Overall, the Pineapple Summer Cocktail is a simple and delicious way to beat the heat and enjoy the last days of summer.
6. End of Summer Succotash
End of Summer Succotash is a classic Southern side dish that combines fresh corn, lima beans, sweet onion, and bacon. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for the end of summer.
The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and comforting side that pairs well with any main course. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite.
7. End of Summer Lasagna
The End of Summer Lasagna is a delicious and hearty dish that perfectly captures the flavors of the season. Packed with mushrooms, Italian sausage, zucchini, and corn, this lasagna is a delightful blend of savory ingredients.
The layers of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and fontina cheese add a rich and indulgent touch. With its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, this lasagna is a must-try for the end of summer.
8. Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad
The Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad is a simple and refreshing end-of-summer recipe that celebrates the flavors of peak tomato season. This pasta variation of Caprese salad combines fresh basil, mozzarella, and roasted garlic dressing with the addition of sweet corn.
The creamy mozzarella and the mellow garlicky flavor of the dressing take this vegetarian salad to another level. It's a perfect dish to savor the last days of summer.
9. End of Summer Cobb Salad
The End of Summer Cobb Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that is perfect for using up leftover vegetables from the garden or farmer's market. The star of the salad is the creamy carrot-kimchi dressing, which adds a unique and delicious twist.
This vegetarian salad is versatile and can be enjoyed as a main course or served as a colorful buffet option for entertaining. Overall, it's a healthy and flavorful way to bid farewell to the summer season.
10. Peach BBQ Chicken Pizza
Peach BBQ Chicken Pizza is the perfect end-of-summer recipe that combines the flavors of sweet peaches, tangy BBQ sauce, and savory chicken on a pizza crust.
The addition of gouda and goat cheese adds richness, while the fresh basil provides a burst of freshness. This unique and delicious pizza is a must-try for any pizza lover looking to savor the flavors of summer.
11. Strawberry Basil Chicken
Strawberry Basil Chicken is a refreshing and healthy end of summer dish. Grilled chicken is topped with a mixture of fresh strawberries, basil, and mozzarella, creating a delicious combination of flavors.
The recipe is gluten-free, migraine diet-friendly, and low in sodium. It's a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer cookout.
12. Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing and flavorful end of summer recipe. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, and sharp red onions creates a perfectly balanced salad.
The lemon dill dressing adds a light and herbaceous touch that makes this salad truly addictive. It's the perfect side dish for grilled meat and a must-try for the end of summer.
13. Sweet Onion Dressing
Sweet Onion Dressing is a tangy vinaigrette that adds a burst of flavor to end-of-summer and fall salads. Made with caramelized onions, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
The recipe allows for customization, allowing you to adjust the sweetness to your preference. This homemade dressing is thick, creamy, and easy to make. It is a delicious addition to any salad.
14. Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is a simple and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the flavors of summer. Made with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, it is a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
The addition of a splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy twist to this classic Italian salad. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, especially when tomatoes are at their peak.
15. Summer Panzanella Salad
The Summer Panzanella Salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, crusty bread, and creamy burrata cheese. It's a classic Italian salad that captures the flavors of summer. The combination of heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper creates a refreshing and vibrant dish.
The pickled red onion adds a tangy kick, while the basil adds a fragrant touch. The toasted bread cubes provide a satisfying crunch. Overall, this salad is a perfect end-of-summer recipe that celebrates the season's bounty.
