7 Vegan and 7 Vegetarian Summer Recipes for Every Occasion

Summer is the perfect time to embrace the abundance of fresh, plant-based ingredients that the season has to offer. With a bariety of colorful fruits and vegetables available during the season, you can create countless vegan and vegetarian dishes. These meals are as visually appealing as they are delicious, making them the ideal choice for any summer gathering. Here are some summer recipes that cater to every occasion you should not skip.

Grilled Veggie Skewers with Chimichurri (Vegan)

Grilled veggie skewers are a colorful and tasty option for summer gatherings. Start by threading cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, red onions, and mushrooms onto skewers. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling over medium heat until they’re tender and slightly charred. The chimichurri sauce, made with fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, adds a zesty finish to the skewers. Serve these vibrant skewers with a generous drizzle of chimichurri, and they’re sure to be a hit at any BBQ.

Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze (Vegetarian)

A Caprese salad is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the flavors of summer tomatoes. Slice ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, then layer them with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a balsamic glaze, and season with salt and pepper. This salad is best served immediately, while the tomatoes are juicy and the mozzarella is soft. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a starter for an alfresco dinner.

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad (Vegan)

This refreshing salad combines the sweet juiciness of watermelon with the crispness of cucumber. To prepare, cube the watermelon and cucumber, then toss them together in a bowl with fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lime juice. For added texture, sprinkle in some toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds. This dish is light, hydrating, and perfect for hot summer days. Serve it chilled, and enjoy the vibrant flavors that are as cooling as they are delicious.

Zucchini and Feta Stuffed Peppers (Vegetarian)

These stuffed peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of zucchini, feta, and rice. Start by hollowing out bell peppers and roasting them until tender. In the meantime, sauté diced zucchini with garlic and onions, then mix in cooked rice, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs like parsley and dill. Stuff the peppers with the mixture and bake until heated through. The result is a savory, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a summer dinner. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.

Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches (Vegan)

Jackfruit is a fantastic meat substitute, mimicking the texture of pulled pork in this BBQ sandwich. Begin by shredding canned jackfruit and sautéing it with onions, garlic, and your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s tender and flavorful. Serve the jackfruit on toasted buns with a crunchy coleslaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vegan mayo dressing. These sandwiches are hearty, flavorful, and sure to satisfy even the most skeptical eaters. Perfect for a casual summer picnic or backyard BBQ.

Greek Orzo Salad (Vegetarian)

This Greek-inspired orzo salad is light, refreshing, and full of Mediterranean flavors. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions, then toss it with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, and crumbled feta cheese. Dress the salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, then finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics and potlucks. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with grilled vegetables or seafood.

Mango Avocado Salsa with Tortilla Chips (Vegan)

This mango avocado salsa is a bright and zesty dish that’s perfect for summer snacking. Dice ripe mangoes and avocados, then mix them with chopped red onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve the salsa with a side of tortilla chips for a refreshing appetizer or snack. The combination of sweet mango and creamy avocado with a hint of heat from the jalapeños creates a delightful balance of flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and easy to make.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells (Vegetarian)

These stuffed shells are a comforting dish that can be prepared ahead of time for easy summer entertaining. Cook large pasta shells until al dente, then stuff them with a mixture of ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, and grated Parmesan. Arrange the shells in a baking dish with marinara sauce, then bake until bubbly and golden. The creamy ricotta and spinach filling contrasts beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce. Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Vegan Pesto Pasta Salad (Vegan)

A vegan twist on a classic summer pasta salad, this dish features a basil pesto made without cheese. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and olive oil to create the pesto. Toss the pesto with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, arugula, and roasted pine nuts. This pasta salad is vibrant, flavorful, and perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. It’s a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile addition to any summer menu.

 Tomato Basil Tart (Vegetarian)

A tomato basil tart is a beautiful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer brunches or lunches. Start with a flaky puff pastry crust, then layer it with a mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh basil, and thinly sliced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil before baking until the crust is golden and the tomatoes are slightly caramelized. The tart is delicious served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Coconut Lime Quinoa Bowls (Vegan)

Coconut lime quinoa bowls are a light yet filling dish that’s full of tropical flavors. Cook the quinoa in coconut milk for a creamy texture, then toss it with black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Top with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added crunch. These bowls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them an ideal meal for a healthy summer lunch or dinner. Serve it with a side of mixed greens for a complete meal.

Vegetarian Paella (Vegetarian)

This vegetarian paella is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s packed with summer vegetables. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil, then add Arborio rice and cook until slightly toasted. Stir in vegetable broth, saffron, and a mix of vegetables like peas, artichoke hearts, and tomatoes. Cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, then finish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This dish is a showstopper that’s perfect for summer dinner parties.

Grilled Corn with Spicy Vegan Mayo (Vegan)

Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple, and this version with spicy vegan mayo takes it up a notch. Grill the corn until it’s charred and smoky, then brush it with a mixture of vegan mayonnaise, lime juice, and a dash of chili powder. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving. The creamy, spicy mayo pairs perfectly with the sweet corn, creating a deliciously addictive summer side dish. This recipe is simple yet full of flavor, making it a must-try for your next cookout.

Grilled Halloumi and Vegetable Skewers (Vegetarian)

Grilled halloumi is a deliciously salty cheese that holds up well on the grill, making it perfect for skewers. Alternate cubes of halloumi with chunks of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions on skewers, then grill until the cheese is golden and the vegetables are tender. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a light yet satisfying summer dish. These skewers are great on their own or as a side dish for a larger meal.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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