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When warm evenings roll around, I love hosting casual dinner parties that feel relaxed but still delicious. Summer calls for easygoing meals—dishes that highlight fresh ingredients, don’t require hours in the kitchen, and taste great eaten outside with a chilled drink in hand.
These summer dinner party recipes are some of my favorites. They’re simple to pull off, great for sharing, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just a few close friends, these recipes will help you host without stress.
1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
This is a no-fail main dish that’s juicy, flavorful, and pairs with just about anything. I marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grill until perfectly charred.
Author’s Note
Pound the chicken to even thickness for faster, more even cooking.
Get the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken recipe.
2. Caprese Pasta Salad
A fresh take on the classic—cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil tossed with pasta and a light balsamic vinaigrette. It’s bright, satisfying, and looks great on the table.
Author’s Note
Serve at room temperature so the flavors really come through.
Get the Caprese Pasta Salad recipe.
3. Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp
These are fast to prep and cook, but they feel special. I toss shrimp in garlic butter and grill them on skewers for a smoky, buttery finish.
Author’s Note
Grill over high heat for 1–2 minutes per side—shrimp cook fast!
Get the Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp recipe.
4. Tomato Burrata Salad
I layer thick slices of heirloom tomatoes with creamy burrata, olive oil, sea salt, and fresh basil. It’s a stunning and simple starter that always disappears fast.
Author’s Note
Serve with toasted baguette slices to scoop up the creamy cheese and juices.
Get the Tomato Burrata Salad recipe.
5. Skillet Lemon Herb Salmon
I sear salmon in a cast-iron skillet and finish with a lemony herb butter. It’s quick, flaky, and always feels like something from a restaurant.
Author’s Note
Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes after cooking so it stays juicy.
Get the Skillet Lemon Herb Salmon recipe.
6. Grilled Veggie Platter
I grill zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and red onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then arrange them on a platter with fresh herbs. It’s colorful and works as a side or main for plant-based guests.
Author’s Note
Serve with a side of hummus or a yogurt dip for a little extra something.
Get the Grilled Veggie Platter recipe.
7. Peach and Prosciutto Salad
Sweet peaches, salty prosciutto, arugula, and creamy goat cheese come together with a honey-balsamic dressing. It’s summery, light, and always gets compliments.
Author’s Note
Use ripe but firm peaches so they hold up well in the salad.
Get the Peach and Prosciutto Salad recipe.
8. Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri
This is one of my go-to mains for a group. I marinate flank steak in olive oil, garlic, and lime, grill it medium-rare, then slice it thin and top with chimichurri sauce.
Author’s Note
Let it rest before slicing—cut against the grain for the most tender bite.
Get the Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri recipe.
9. Summer Corn and Tomato Pasta
I sauté fresh corn and cherry tomatoes with garlic, then toss with pasta and a sprinkle of parmesan. It’s light but still comforting, perfect for outdoor dinners.
Author’s Note
Finish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil—it ties the flavors together.
Get the Summer Corn and Tomato Pasta recipe.
10. Stuffed Zucchini Boats
I hollow out zucchinis and fill them with a mix of quinoa, feta, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, then bake until golden. It’s a great vegetarian option that feels hearty.
Author’s Note
Grill them instead of baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Get the Stuffed Zucchini Boats recipe.
11. BBQ Chicken Flatbreads
I top flatbread with BBQ sauce, shredded rotisserie chicken, red onion, and mozzarella, then grill or bake until bubbly. Cut into wedges and serve as an easy main or appetizer.
Author’s Note
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of flavor right before serving.
Get the BBQ Chicken Flatbreads recipe.
12. Lemon Orzo with Grilled Chicken
This dish is light, fresh, and easy to make ahead. I toss cooked orzo with lemon juice, olive oil, herbs, and grilled chicken slices for a full meal in a bowl.
Author’s Note
Add crumbled feta or chopped spinach to give it even more summer flavor.
Get the Lemon Orzo with Grilled Chicken recipe.
13. Charred Corn and Avocado Salad
I grill fresh corn, cut it off the cob, and toss it with avocado, lime juice, red onion, and cilantro. It’s perfect as a side dish for grilled meats.
Author’s Note
Add jalapeño for a little heat if your guests enjoy a kick.
Get the Charred Corn and Avocado Salad recipe.
14. Greek Chicken Skewers
Marinated in lemon, garlic, and oregano, these grilled skewers are juicy and flavorful. Serve with tzatziki and pita on the side for an easy, build-your-own dinner.
Author’s Note
Use metal skewers or soak wooden ones before grilling to prevent burning.
Get the Greek Chicken Skewers recipe.
15. Cold Lentil and Veggie Salad
I toss cooked green lentils with cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and a mustardy vinaigrette. It’s hearty enough for a main, but it works as a side too.
Author’s Note
Make it a few hours ahead—the flavors get better as it sits.
Get the Cold Lentil and Veggie Salad recipe.
16. Strawberry Shortcake Cups
To end the night, I serve shortcake biscuits layered with sweet strawberries and whipped cream in individual cups or jars. It’s nostalgic, summery, and easy to prep ahead.
Author’s Note
Macerate the strawberries with a little sugar and lemon juice—it brings out their juiciness.
