There’s so much to love about the first day of summer—from the sunny weather to the flourishing vegetable gardens. And, what’s more? All the summer recipes that you can make with your bountiful harvest. Think: tomato recipes, zucchini recipes, and plenty of ways to use cucumbers, peppers, and eggplant! Of course, you don’t have to be a professional gardener to make these summer vegetable recipes. A trip to your nearby farm stand is also a great way to support local farmers and take advantage of the season’s best produce. You can put the veggies to good use by adding them to your menu of grilling recipes, serving them up in a fresh summer salad, or by piling them into casseroles and pies… and the list goes on!

Looking to get creative for your summer dinner? There are lots of ideas out there that you may not have considered before, like wrapping asparagus in salty prosciutto, transforming beets into creamy hummus, or making pesto out of zucchini. Here, you’ll find those recipes and more including summer pastas, BBQ sides, main courses for lunch and dinner, and even a few healthy breakfast ideas that all put veggies at the front and center of every dish. We’ve even provided some refreshing cocktails that feature ingredients from your herb garden—there’s a refreshing, fruit-filled white sangria and blueberry-basil limeade sure to quench your thirst.

Whether you’re planning a festive feast for Memorial Day or 4th of July, or you’re looking for ways to eat all the in-season vegetables you can this summer, let these dishes lend a helping hand morning, noon, and night. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your farmers’ market and stock up while you can! Summer will be over before you know it.

Breakfast and Brunch

Start your day off right! These ideas are great for a quick morning meal or for entertaining others. Try the breakfast salad for a deliciously light brunch, or make the sausage and pepper casserole for an easy family breakfast.

Appetizers and Snacks

For summer-inspired appetizers and small bites, try these recipes that use up corn, asparagus, tomatoes, peppers, and beets. For the fried eggplant, serve with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping!

Lunch

The best summer lunch is easy, light, and tasty. These recipes include sandwiches, salads, and veggie pies to keep you full and satisfied.

Dinner

You’ll find pasta, pizza, and more dinner ideas that feature your favorite seasonal veggies. Think steak and peppers, spinach lasagna, and an easy chicken dinners!

Sides

Summer sides usually include all the macaroni salads you can imagine. This year, try incorporating these summer veggie sides that feature cucumber, corn, and squash into your menu.

Drinks

You likely grow aromatic herbs all summer long, which is where these tasty drinks come into play. Make classics like a mint julep or fruit-filled sangria using fresh mint from your garden, while Ree’s twist on a margarita is great for anyone who grows cucumbers.

Source: thepioneerwoman.com