Healthy Summer Meals With Fresh Produce
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
When the sun’s shining and the days are long, this recipe is your go-to for staying refreshed and energized. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy summer days. You’ll love how fresh and vibrant the ingredients are, bringing a burst of color to your plate. It’s light yet satisfying**, so you can enjoy it without feeling weighed down. Plus, it’s super versatile**, letting you tweak it to suit your taste or what’s in your fridge.
Recipe
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, invigorating, and nutritious meals that keep you energized and hydrated. This healthy summer recipe is packed with fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and essential nutrients, making it an ideal choice for warm weather.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a chilled option.
Notes:
- For added protein, include grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Substitute feta with goat cheese or omit for a vegan version.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon for a tangy twist.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: 250 per serving
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
Eating well during summer is easy with fresh, nutritious ingredients. Here’s the breakdown for a balanced summer meal.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing grilled chicken or fish with a crisp summer salad—it keeps the meal light but satisfying. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing or a colorful veggie mix adds freshness without weighing you down. Let’s explore some tasty combos that’ll make your summer meals shine.
Grilled Protein Options
Grilling isn’t just about throwing meat on the fire—it’s about creating a meal that’s balanced and satisfying. I love using simple grilling techniques, like indirect heat for thicker cuts or high heat for quick searing. Marinating methods make a huge difference too—try citrus for chicken or soy-ginger for salmon. My go-to proteins are lean chicken breasts, juicy shrimp, or even tofu for a plant-based twist. Just remember, timing is key—overcooking ruins the fun! Pair these with fresh veggies or a zesty salsa, and you’ve got a meal that’s both healthy and packed with flavor. Happy grilling!
Light Salad Pairings
Once the grill’s done its magic, it’s time to think about what’s going on the side. I love pairing grilled dishes with light salads that highlight seasonal ingredients. A crisp cucumber and watermelon salad with mint feels rejuvenating, while a tangy tomato and peach combo adds a sweet twist. For something heartier, I toss quinoa with roasted corn, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette. The key is balancing flavor combinations—think creamy avocado with sharp feta or peppery arugula with juicy strawberries. These salads keep things fresh, simple, and packed with summer’s best flavors. Trust me, they’ll steal the show!
