These Dinners Are Light Enough for Summer But Not Skimpy
If your summer meals keep leaving you hangry by 9 PM, it’s time for a better plan. These light dinner recipes won’t weigh you down, but they also won’t leave you rummaging for snacks an hour later. They’re proof you can keep it cool without skimping on flavor or fun. Perfect for hot nights, lazy evenings, or just avoiding another sad salad. Bonus: no one will ask what the “real” dinner is.
Instant Pot Tofu Curry
This tofu curry comes together in under 15 minutes and doesn’t skimp on flavor. The Instant Pot makes the whole thing quick and hands-off, which is great for busy nights. It's a smart choice when you're craving something warm and bold without ordering takeout. Serve it with rice and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tofu Curry
Cod Piccata
Flaky cod gets a simple upgrade with a tangy lemon-butter sauce and capers. It's light enough for warmer nights but still fills you up. This dish pairs well with rice or a side of greens and doesn’t require a lot of prep. It’s one of those light dinner recipes that feels like more effort than it is.
Get the Recipe: Cod Piccata
Delicious Spring Roll Salad With Peanut Dressing
If you like crunch and color, this spring roll salad checks both boxes. The peanut dressing ties everything together and adds just the right amount of richness. It’s also vegan, gluten-free, and quick to throw together. You can serve it as a meal or a side.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Spring Roll Salad With Peanut Dressing
Vegan Buffalo Tempeh Sandwich
This sandwich hits the spot when you're after something spicy but still plant-based. The tempeh is crispy, the buffalo sauce is bold, and the toppings bring in freshness. It’s completely vegan and works well as a casual lunch or dinner. Great for anyone who loves heat without the mess.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Buffalo Tempeh Sandwich
Jalapeno Chicken Salad
This version of jalapeno chicken salad is inspired by a popular chain’s take, but you can make it at home with simple ingredients. It's creamy, spicy, and loaded with flavor. You can enjoy it in a sandwich, lettuce wrap, or on its own. It’s also easy to prep ahead for quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Chicken Salad
Teriyaki Chicken Egg Fried Rice With Vegetables
Packed with vegetables and flavored with garlic and ginger, this dish brings together everything in one skillet. You can swap in cauliflower rice for something lighter or keep it classic. It works for weeknights when you need something fast but filling. Even better, it reheats well the next day.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Egg Fried Rice With Vegetables
Skillet Chicken And Olive Pesto Sauce Bake
This dish comes together in one pan and feels perfect for a casual get-together or simple dinner at home. The chicken bakes in a flavorful olive pesto and comes out juicy every time. You can serve it with crusty bread or enjoy it as is. Cleanup is easy too.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken And Olive Pesto Sauce Bake
Skillet Cheesy Red Pepper Chicken Sandwiches
This is a clever way to use leftover red pepper dip and turn it into a full meal. With melted cheese and seasoned chicken, these sandwiches come together quickly in a skillet. They’re great for nights when you want something warm without too much fuss. You’ll want to save this idea for later.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Cheesy Red Pepper Chicken Sandwiches
Skillet Barbecue Chicken n' Sausage
Barbecue sauce brings big flavor to this 30-minute skillet dinner. It's loaded with both chicken and sausage, so it’s hearty without needing much else. Serve it in a toasted bun or over grains for a full meal. Either way, it’s simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Barbecue Chicken n' Sausage
Lobster Caesar Salad Recipe (With Homemade Dressing)
This Caesar salad adds lobster for a little something extra, but it still stays quick and easy. The homemade dressing is creamy without being too heavy. It’s a solid pick for when you want a summer meal that’s a bit more special. Ideal for lunch or a lighter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Caesar Salad Recipe (With Homemade Dressing)
Easy Cheeseburger Bowl (With Smashburger Sauce)
All the flavors of a cheeseburger come together in this low-carb bowl. It’s loaded with seasoned beef, cheese, and that signature sauce everyone loves. You don’t need a bun to enjoy it. This is one of those light dinner recipes that still feels like comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheeseburger Bowl (With Smashburger Sauce)
One-pot Marry Me Tofu
This tofu dish uses one pan and pulls in big flavor from a sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s creamy, quick, and entirely plant-based. Serve it with grains or vegetables for a complete meal. Great when you want something cozy but meat-free.
Get the Recipe: One-pot Marry Me Tofu
Grilled Sweet Potato Salad
This sweet potato salad is hearty enough to stand on its own but also works well as a side. It’s filled with vegetables, walnuts, and chickpeas, giving it a mix of textures. Grilling the sweet potatoes adds depth without much effort. It’s a great meal prep option too.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Sweet Potato Salad
Easy Japanese Cold Noodle Salad
This noodle salad is chilled, veggie-packed, and quick to prep. It’s based on a North American-style version of a Japanese summer dish, so it's familiar yet fresh. Add leftover ham or tofu to make it more filling. It’s one of the better light dinner recipes for warmer days.
Get the Recipe: Easy Japanese Cold Noodle Salad
Grilled Greek Chicken Burgers
Ground chicken, feta, and olives come together in these flavorful burgers. Serve them in pita for something easy and casual. They're packed with herbs and perfect for grilling season. You can prep the patties ahead to save time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken Burgers
Lemon Caper Pasta
Lemon and capers bring a punch of brightness to this quick pasta dish. It’s ready in 30 minutes and doesn’t require any hard-to-find ingredients. This one is ideal for summer nights or when you're short on time. It's one of the easiest light dinner recipes to keep in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Caper Pasta
Cooked Salmon Poke Bowl With Easy Sauce
This poke bowl skips the raw fish and uses pan-seared salmon for a simple upgrade. The honey garlic glaze gives it a nice balance, and the fresh toppings pull everything together. You can prep the ingredients ahead and build the bowl when you’re ready to eat. Great for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cooked Salmon Poke Bowl With Easy Sauce
Avocado Plantain Rice Bowl Recipe with Edamame Beans
This bowl combines sweet plantains, protein-rich edamame, and a quick chimichurri sauce. It’s vegan, colorful, and full of texture. Everything comes together with pantry-friendly ingredients. This one works well for light dinner recipes or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Plantain Rice Bowl Recipe with Edamame Beans
Spicy Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Rice and Peach Avocado Salad
Sweet, spicy, and a little creamy, this shrimp bowl is ready in under 30 minutes. The peach and avocado salad adds balance and color without taking extra time. Serve it with rice for a quick and fresh meal. It’s a great dinner when you want something fast but still full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Rice and Peach Avocado Salad
Chinese Steamed Eggs – Silky and Soft!
These steamed eggs are simple, comforting, and light. The texture is soft and smooth, and you only need a few ingredients to get it right. It’s a dish that works for any age group. You can enjoy it with rice or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Eggs – Silky and Soft!
Chinese Tomatoes and Eggs Stir-Fry
This is a classic, quick dish that uses pantry basics and comes together fast. The eggs are soft, the tomatoes are saucy, and the flavor is balanced with a hint of sweetness. Serve it over rice or noodles for a full meal. It’s a reliable option for light dinner recipes.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Tomatoes and Eggs Stir-Fry
Chicken Caprese Salad
This salad brings together chicken, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and a sweet balsamic dressing. It’s finished in under 30 minutes and works great when you want something that doesn’t feel heavy. It also holds up well for lunch the next day. Add a piece of bread if you need something extra.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caprese Salad
Asian Cucumber Noodle Salad
Spiralized cucumber stands in for noodles in this fresh, crisp salad. The dressing is tangy and a little sweet, making it a great side or base for a protein. It’s easy to prep ahead and stays crunchy. Great for warm days when you want something lighter.
Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Noodle Salad
Quick & Creamy Gnocchi w/ Tomato Sauce & Burrata
Soft gnocchi in tomato sauce is topped with creamy burrata for a rich and quick meal. You can serve it as-is or add greens on the side. It’s great when you want a dinner that comes together fast but still feels complete. It also works well for guests.
Get the Recipe: Quick & Creamy Gnocchi w/ Tomato Sauce & Burrata
Tortellini Pasta Salad with Pesto
Tossed with pesto, this tortellini pasta salad is ready in 20 minutes. It’s great for warm nights or to take on the go. You can serve it chilled or room temperature. It’s filling without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Pasta Salad with Pesto
Prosciutto Pasta with Artichokes and Olives
This pasta uses bold ingredients like olives, prosciutto, and tomatoes for a fast, flavorful meal. The sauce is simple and ready in under 30 minutes. It works well on its own or with a light salad on the side. It’s a strong dinner option when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Pasta with Artichokes and Olives
5-Ingredient Dinners That Deliver Major Flavor With Minimal Effort
These dinners skip the complicated steps and still get the job done. With just five ingredients, each recipe comes together quickly and doesn’t rely on fancy tricks or special tools. They’re perfect when you need a break from chopping ten things just to eat. You’ll spend less time prepping and more time enjoying what’s on the plate.
Get the Recipe: 5-Ingredient Dinners That Deliver Major Flavor With Minimal Effort
30 Beautiful Light and Bright Salads That Are Serving Looks and Flavor
These salads actually bring something to the table besides lettuce. With fresh ingredients and vibrant combos, they’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or sharing at a get-together. You’ll find options that are crunchy, crisp, and full of flavor without a lot of effort. Great if you want a meal that looks good and feels fresh.
Get the Recipe: 30 Beautiful Light and Bright Salads That Are Serving Looks and Flavor
