Top 10 Recipes Of Summer

Certain things are guaranteed to happen during an Iowa summer. It will be hot. The humidity will make the heat seem trivial. Sweet corn loves the humidity. Potlucks, cook-outs and picnics revolve around fresh foods like sweet corn. As far as I’m concerned, the more picnics, the more successful the summer.

Whether you are fixing dinner for your family or need a dish to contribute to a potluck, having reliable and delicious recipes at your fingertips will make even a last-minute invitation more enjoyable. In this post, I have gathered 10 of my tried, tested and (most importantly) tasty recommendations for summer appetizers, salads, sides, sandwiches, desserts and drinks. Click on the title below each picture to go directly to the recipe.

recipe #1

Avocado Stuffed Tomatoes: these pretty little vitamin-packed tomato cups are filled with a mixture of avocado, goat cheese, spinach-basil pesto and lemon juice. Easy to make and hard to resist!

recipe #2

Corn and Black Bean Salsa: the perfect mix of corn, black beans, onions, peppers, and tomatoes make this salsa the perfect appetizer for your next picnic or party.

recipe #3

Sidekick Coleslaw: simple, fresh, crunchy, tangy and healthy(ish) … this coleslaw is the perfect sidekick to all your grilled (and non-grilled) dinners!

recipe #4

3-Bean Salad: this colorful, delicious, and simple bean salad recipe is loaded with vegetables and perfectly balanced with a light, tangy dressing.

recipe #5

Baked 4-Bean Casserole: this baked bean casserole goes pro with a variety of beans and a molasses and vinegar sauce. This recipe is a crowd pleaser for your next picnic or potluck.

recipe #6

Cheesy Jalapeño Corn: sweet corn, spicy jalapeños and creamy cheese create a side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite BBQ or grilled meats. Get the recipe here!

recipe #7

Cajun Pork Sandwiches: take an inexpensive cut of pork, add a little heat, top it with coleslaw and pile it on cornbread … or a bun, it’s your choice!

recipe #8

Amazing Apple Pie: the classic combination of warm apples and cinnamon are layered between two flaky crusts and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for pie perfection! Get the recipe, tips and personal suggestions here.

REcipe #9

Lemon Pound Cake: tart and sweet … the perfect combination! This lemon pound cake is delicious by the slice or crumbled and layered with almond yogurt, fresh strawberries and toasted almonds.

recipe #10

Summer Sangria: refreshing and fruit-forward, this sangria recipe is perfect for any summer gathering or just a relaxing moment in a hammock.

Now go, enjoy your picnic, watch the fireflies and soak in summer wherever you live!