The transition period when spring turns into summer always feels like an easy one—it almost goes unnoticed. From the longer days to the warmer nights, the days aren’t sweltering just yet. But when they are, what better way to enjoy those perfect summer days with great company—and of course, great food?
Summer’s just not summer without a backyard barbecue, and the combination of cold drinks and delicious food just can’t be beat. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend (or any weekend, really, if you’re just looking for an excuse to celebrate) a get-together is truly just a summer essential.
We’ve compiled some of our favorite summer cookout recipes—including appetizers and sides, main dishes, and desserts—that are perfect for kids of all ages (and you, too!). Check them out below.
Appetizers & Sides
1. Grilled Avocados Stuffed With Veggie Ceviche
There are few appetizers quite as refreshing as ceviche. Add this to delicious grilled avocados and you’ve got a new summer go-to.
Source: Love and Lemons
2. Grilled Mexican Street Corn
If you ask me, the time of year with fresh sweet corn should be recognized as a season in and of itself. This Mexican street corn recipe is one you won’t want to miss out on during the best months of the year.
Source: Jessica in the Kitchen
3. Grilled Summer Herb Garden Pizza
There’s something about a grilled pizza that makes it that much more enjoyable. Add in fresh summer herbs and veggies, and we’ve got a great start to any summer cookout.
Source: Love and Lemons
4. Grilled Summer Squash with Feta
With this recipe, grilled zucchini, feta cheese, a lemon vinaigrette come together in perhaps the most refreshing side dish on our list. We have to take advantage of fresh summer squash while we can, and this recipe is a great way to do that.
Source: What’s Gaby Cooking
5. Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges
When we can’t imagine grilling burgers without having fries on the side but don’t want the same old same old, this recipe comes to our rescue.
Source: What’s Gaby Cooking
6. Gluten Free Pasta Salad
There’s no better time of year for a pasta salad than summer time. This refreshing salad filled with summer veggies like tomatoes, and crunchy favorites like olives and banana peppers is a perfect addition to any cookout.
Source: The Movement Menu
7. Grilled Carrots
This recipe is so good that kids will forget they’re eating vegetables. Grilling carrots makes them turn out so tender and pair perfectly with any main dish.
Source: Eat the Gains
8. Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings
Kids will feel like they’re at their favorite restaurant with these crispy onion rings on the table. We love this air fryer recipe because it’s quick, easy, and a healthier version of a beloved comfort food.
Source: Plated Cravings
9. Roasted Asparagus and Mushroom Poutine
Summer time means that asparagus is back and abundant. This may be one of the most creative summer cookout recipes on our list and one you’re going to want to try!
Source: Closet Cooking
Summer cookouts would be incomplete without potato salad. This recipe is great because it’s a healthier version made with Greek yogurt. But trust us, it’s as creamy as ever!
Source: Family Food on the Table
Main Dishes
11. Grilled Pineapple Pork Sandwiches
There’s something extra special about a pineapple and pork combination that makes perfect sense. Almost as much sense as making this recipe on a warm summer day.
Source: Pinch of Yum
12. 3-Ingredient Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is always a great idea when it comes to summer cookouts. The whole family will love the recipe flavored with soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
Source: Pinch of Yum
13. Vegan Quinoa Veggie Burgers
Burgers, but make them plant-based! These quinoa veggie burgers will satisfy any craving while remaining a vegan-friendly dish.
Source: Jessica in the Kitchen
14. Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos
These pork tacos are sure to make for a yummy summer cookout. The best part is, when you’re eating outside, you don’t have to worry about any messes being made!
Source: Isabel Eats
15. Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is hearty enough to be a summer cookout primary focus, while still being light and refreshing like a mediterranean salad ought to be.
Source: Sweet Potato Soul
16. Juicy Chicken Kebabs
Kebabs are a fun way to mix up common recipes. This recipe in particular ensures the chicken always comes out juicy with the incorporation of a honey lime sauce.
Source: Isabel Eats
17. Grilled Corn Salad With Avocado and Tomato
A salad with avocado, corn, and tomatoes was a combination I never knew I needed until now. Plus, this recipe includes a summer staple dressing: honey and lime.
Source: Well Plated
18. Grilled Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos
When you need something to hold all of your summer guacamole, consider making these tasty fish tacos.
Source: What’s Gaby Cooking
19. Grilled Chicken Wings
If you think about it, summer cookouts are really just the pre-game to fall tailgate celebrations. Get excited for future game days with this fantastic recipe for grilled chicken wings.
Source: Basil & Bubbly
20. Parmesan Crusted Marinara Triple Grilled Cheese
Just when we thought a grilled cheese sandwich couldn’t get any more delicious, we stumbled upon this recipe. Made with three different kinds of cheese, these bad boys are full of flavor and are sure to be a new family favorite.
Source: With Salt and Wit
Desserts
21. Movie Theater Popcorn Cookies
I personally can’t think of a better idea than combining two family favorites: popcorn and cookies. A salty sweet concoction is always a good idea, and just what a summer family cookout should end on.
Source: Brown Sugar Mama
22. Strawberry Shortcake Grilled Doughnuts
Fair warning: there’s a good chance no one in your household will ever want another dessert again after trying these grilled doughnuts. These are unique and simply oh-so good.
Source: Half Baked Harvest
23. Fresas Con Crema
With a name that translates to ‘strawberries and cream,’ you know you’re in for a summer treat. As an added bonus, this recipe takes less than 10 minutes to make and only uses five ingredients.
Source: Isabel Eats
24. Grilled Peaches with Coconut Ice Cream
Don’t shut down the grill just get! Instead, pick up some fresh summer peaches to toss on there. Then pair them with some coconut ice cream for a sweet summer dessert.
Source: Jessica in the Kitchen
25. Dole Whip Popsicles
There’s no better dessert in the summer time than popsicles. These are extra special because it’s inspired by the Dole Whip frozen treat from Disney World. If you and your little ones have been or are planning a trip, this treat is a must try!
Source: A Night Owl
26. Strawberry Crumble
Like fall’s beloved apple crisp comes summer’s sister dessert: strawberry crumble. All the crunchy goodness mixed with the sweet strawberries make this a delicious end to a summer cookout.
Source: A Classic Twist
27. Summer Strawberry Float
Many of us know and love the classic root beer float. With this recipe, the timeless treat gets a summer twist with the incorporation of fresh strawberries and strawberry soda.
Source: Grandbaby Cakes
28. Raspberry Orange Shortbread Bars
For those of us who just don’t get the hype around strawberries, this recipe for raspberry orange shortbread bars may be the perfect summer sweet.
Source: Life, Love and Sugar
29. Homemade Ice Cream
Going head to head with popsicles as the quintessential summer treat is, of course, ice cream. Follow this recipe for easy, delicious, no-churn ice cream that the whole family will love.
Source: Foodie Crush
30. Cream Cheese Fruit Dip
Fruit salad is great on it’s own, but it’s gets a well deserved upgrade on the list of best summer cookout recipes when we throw in a homemade cream cheese fruit dip. We recommend making two batches because we’re confident this will go fast!
Source: The Salty Marshmallow
