Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with some delicious and refreshing treats that the whole family will love? As a parent, it can be challenging to come up with new ideas for snacks and meals that are not only tasty but also healthy and kid-friendly. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 18 easy summer recipes that are perfect for kids.
From sweet treats like fruit popsicles and homemade strawberry lemonade, to savory options like veggie-packed quesadillas and grilled cheese pinwheels, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all incredibly easy to make and require minimal supervision – perfect for busy parents who want to get their kids involved in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for summer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Fruit and yogurt popsicles
Beat the heat with these refreshing fruit and yogurt popsicles! Made with just a few simple ingredients, these tasty treats are perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Popsicle sticks and molds
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, honey, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the mixed berries to the bowl and stir until they are evenly distributed throughout the yogurt mixture.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
4. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Once frozen, remove from molds and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Rainbow fruit skewers
Add a pop of color and freshness to your next gathering with these easy-to-make Rainbow Fruit Skewers. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a healthy and delicious snack in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh grapes, halved
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Optional: honey or yogurt for dipping
Instructions:
1. Thread a piece of each fruit onto a skewer in the following order: pineapple, strawberry, kiwi, grape.
2. Repeat step 1 until all skewers are full.
3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
4. If desired, serve with honey or yogurt for dipping.
Cooking Time: None!
Mini watermelon pizzas
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of watermelon with the savory flavors of mozzarella and basil, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 small watermelon (about 2 lbs), diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange watermelon cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Place a mozzarella round on top of each watermelon cube.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the mozzarella.
5. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut butter and banana roll-ups
A classic combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana wrapped up in a convenient and tasty snack. Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school treats, or on-the-go munching.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 large flour tortilla (10-12 inches)
– Optional: honey, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for topping
Instructions:
1. Cut the banana into 1-inch pieces.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter along one edge of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
3. Arrange the banana pieces on top of the peanut butter, leaving a small gap between each piece.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently to form a neat log shape.
5. Slice into individual roll-ups or serve whole.
Cooking Time:
– None! These are ready-to-eat in just a few minutes.
Homemade strawberry lemonade
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy homemade strawberry lemonade recipe. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Fresh strawberry slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries and lemon juice until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the strawberry mixture, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with fresh strawberry slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking time at all, just pureeing and chilling.
Veggie-packed quesadillas
These quesadillas are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With a mix of sautéed vegetables and gooey cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup mixed veggies (such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach)
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the sautéed veggies and shredded cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the veggie-cheese mixture onto one half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Apple and cucumber slushies
Beat the heat with this unique and delicious slushie recipe that combines the sweetness of apples with the coolness of cucumbers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine apple juice, cucumber, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
3. Add ice cubes to the blender and blend until the desired slushie consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on blending speed)
Enjoy your refreshing Apple and Cucumber Slushies!
No-bake energy bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost on-the-go. Made with wholesome ingredients, they’re also a great way to sneak in some healthy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the chocolate chips, chia seeds, and salt until fully incorporated.
3. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy bites.
4. Place energy bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy bites are ready in just a few minutes of mixing and shaping.
Cheesy zucchini muffins
These savory muffins are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer year-round. With the addition of melted cheddar cheese and fresh zucchini, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh zucchini
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine zucchini, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir in grated cheese.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tropical smoothie bowls
Experience the taste of a tropical paradise with this refreshing smoothie bowl recipe, featuring a blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1 cup frozen mango chunks
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced fresh pineapple, shredded coconut, chopped macadamia nuts
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, pineapple, mango, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with sliced fresh pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped macadamia nuts.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ants on a log (celery with peanut butter and raisins)
A timeless favorite, ants on a log is a simple yet satisfying snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. This classic combination of crunchy celery, creamy peanut butter, and sweet raisins is easy to prepare and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 stalk of celery
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Cut the celery into bite-sized sticks.
2. Spread 1-2 tsp of peanut butter onto each celery stick, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Place 2-3 raisins on top of the peanut butter, creating an “ant” pattern.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! This snack is ready to go in just a few minutes.
Sweet corn fritters
Sweet Corn Fritters Recipe
These crispy and delicious sweet corn fritters are perfect as a snack or side dish for any occasion. With the sweetness of fresh corn, the crunch of the cornmeal, and a hint of spice, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the corn kernels and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the buttermilk and stir until the mixture forms a thick batter.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on the number of fritters).
Frozen grape snacks
Transform fresh grapes into a sweet and refreshing snack that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy treat any time of the year. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it a great option for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh red or green grapes
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Rinse the grapes under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. If using, mix together the honey and sugar in a small bowl until well combined.
3. Thread each grape onto a skewer or toothpick, leaving a small space between each grape.
4. Dip each grape cluster into the honey-sugar mixture (if using), coating evenly.
5. Place the grape clusters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crunchy snack, place the frozen grapes in an airtight container and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
– Experiment with different grape varieties or add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
Pita pocket tuna melts
Elevate your lunch game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of tuna, cheese, and crispy pita bread. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a satisfying and healthy meal to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 pita breads
– Lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place one pita bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the tuna mixture onto the pita bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the tuna.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Berry yogurt parfaits
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any time of the year. These berry yogurt parfaits are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon a layer of the yogurt mixture into the bottom of a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with a layer of mixed berries.
4. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granola over the berries.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 one more time, ending with a layer of yogurt on top.
6. If desired, top with whipped cream and additional berries.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assemble-to-table in under 5 minutes)
Avocado chocolate pudding
This unique dessert combines the creaminess of avocados with the decadence of dark chocolate, creating a rich and indulgent treat that’s surprisingly healthy.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, heavy cream, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the avocado mixture until well combined.
6. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
8. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Grilled cheese pinwheels
Elevate your grilled cheese game with these pinwheel-shaped sandwiches that combine melted cheese, crispy bread, and a hint of savory flavor. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent roll dough (8-10 rolls)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the crescent dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
3. Spread one half of the dough with softened butter, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped parsley over the buttered dough.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or pinwheel shape. Press gently to seal.
6. Place the pinwheels on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes total
Cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches
Looking for a light and satisfying snack or lunch option? These cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches are the perfect solution, packed with fresh flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tablespoons of cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices.
2. Spread a tablespoon of cream cheese on each slice.
3. Top with a few cucumber slices.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing another bread slice on top.
Cooking Time: None! These sandwiches are ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get your kids excited about cooking this summer with these 18 easy and delicious recipes! From refreshing popsicles to healthy quesadillas, and from sweet treats like strawberry lemonade to savory snacks like grilled cheese pinwheels, there’s something for every young chef. Try making fruit skewers, mini watermelon pizzas, or no-bake energy bites – your kids will love helping in the kitchen.
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