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Home / Best Recipes

Sizzle and Chill With These Thirty-Two Recipes Made for Warm Weather Gatherings

Erren Hart

|

last Updated:

05/05/2025

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When the sun’s out and the patio is calling, it’s time to bring out the recipes that turn any warm-weather gathering into something special. This roundup of 32 dishes has everything you need, from colorful salads like Mediterranean couscous and vegan pasta to finger-licking grilled peri peri chicken and sticky glazed ribs. Don’t forget the show-stopping desserts, like a blueberry cake that melts in your mouth and cherry crumble that tastes like summer in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a breezy picnic, these recipes are guaranteed to impress your guests and make memories as bright as the season itself. Grab your tongs and your favorite cold drink – it’s time to get cooking!

Southern Deviled Eggs

Close-up of a hand holding half a deviled egg. The egg white is filled with a creamy, yellow mixture, garnished with small green herbs. The background is softly blurred.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Indulge in the ultimate party favorite—Creamy Southern Deviled Eggs! Made with rich mayo, tangy mustard, briny capers, and topped with a smoky paprika finish, these bites are bursting with flavor. Perfect for potlucks, holiday spreads, or any gathering where you want to impress!

Get The Recipe: Southern Deviled Eggs

Bacon And Asparagus Pasta Salad

Close-up of a Bacon and Asparagus Pasta Salad with rotini pasta, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese, all tossed in a light dressing, served in a large white bowl.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This Bacon and Asparagus Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Get The Recipe: Bacon And Asparagus Pasta Salad

Quick & Easy Homemade Cherry Ice Cream

A close up of homemade cherry ice cream
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This no-churn Cherry Ice Cream recipe offers the same creamy texture and rich cherry flavor as traditional ice cream, but without the need for an ice cream maker. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort.

Get The Recipe: Quick & Easy Homemade Cherry Ice Cream

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Roasted Eggplant

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Roasted Eggplant in a bowl with a loaf a bread and wine glass on the table in the background
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe for Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a summer dream come true! Roasted eggplant, red peppers, and fresh herbs combine with fluffy couscous and creamy feta cheese for a flavorful and healthy side dish. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or to elevate your next picnic or barbecue.

Get The Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Roasted Eggplant

Homemade Potato Salad

A close up image of potato salad in a white bowl.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Don’t stress about side dishes this summer! This recipe for homemade potato salad is here to save the day. With its combination of creamy potatoes, tangy pickles, and a flavorful dressing, it’s a simple yet satisfying choice for any barbecue or potluck.

Get The Recipe: Homemade Potato Salad

Strawberry Tart

A close up image of a tart decorated with sliced strawberries.
Image Credit: Irina Taskova

This easy and delicious strawberry tart recipe is perfect for any occasion, from parties to simple family dinners.

Get The Recipe: Strawberry Tart

Baked or Barbecued Sticky Glazed Ribs

Baked or Barbecued Sticky Glazed Ribs - Erren's Kitchen
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Get ready for fall-off-the-bone deliciousness with this recipe for Sticky Glazed Ribs! Choose your weapon – oven or grill – and prepare for a finger-licking good meal that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Get The Recipe: Baked or Barbecued Sticky Glazed Ribs

Grilled Corn On The Cob

grilled corn on the cob topped with butter, salt and pepper
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This guide takes the mystery out of grilling corn on the cob. Learn valuable tips for buying, cleaning, and grilling corn using various methods – on the cob, in foil, or even on the stove! Get ready for a quick and delicious summer side dish.

Get The Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Grilled Chicken Thighs and Legs

Grilled Chicken Thighs & Legs on a serving dish
Image Credit: Mypointofview

Craving delicious grilled chicken but on a budget? Look no further! Chicken thighs and legs are a more affordable option, and this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful results with a simple marinade and a tasty sauce.

Get The Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs and Legs

Half Sour Refrigerator Pickles

A jar of pickled cucumbers with garlic, mustard seeds, and dill fronds on a wooden table next to two whole cucumbers.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe unlocks a world of flavor beyond the store-bought jar. Whip up a batch of Half Sour Pickles in no time! They’re the perfect crunchy addition to sandwiches, salads, or simply enjoyed as a tangy appetizer.

Get The Recipe: Half Sour Refrigerator Pickles

Vinegar Coleslaw {No Mayonnaise}

a bowl of vinegar coleslaw with the serving bowl in the background with a spoon.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe offers a lighter twist on coleslaw, using a zesty vinegar dressing instead of mayonnaise. Perfect for those seeking a healthier option, it delivers a refreshing crunch and a delightful tangy flavor.

Get The Recipe: Vinegar Coleslaw {No Mayonnaise}

Best EVER Potato Wedges

a metal basket filled with crispy, golden Potato Wedges
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Transform ordinary potatoes into crispy, golden wedges with this simple recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, these homemade potato wedges are guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.

Get The Recipe: Best EVER Potato Wedges

Homemade BBQ Baked Beans

A close up image of Homemade BBQ Baked Beans in a black pan with a spoon.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Skip the bland, mushy beans! This recipe unlocks the secrets of delicious homemade BBQ baked beans packed with smoky flavors that are perfect for elevating your next cookout.

Get The Recipe: Homemade BBQ Baked Beans

Easy Guacamole

A bowl of guacamole with sliced lime on top.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Ditch the chopping and head straight to the good stuff! This recipe uses readily available fresh ingredients to create a delicious and authentic guacamole in under 20 minutes.

Get The Recipe: Easy Guacamole

Vegan Pasta Salad

A close up image of Vegan Pasta Salad with broccoli and sliced olives.
Image Credit: Marly McMillen/Namely Marly

Ditch the mayo and embrace the vibrant world of vegan pasta salad! This isn’t just a summer side dish anymore. Packed with a rainbow of fresh vegetables, protein-rich legumes, and a light and flavorful dressing, vegan pasta salad is a satisfying and versatile option for any time of year.

Get The Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad

Sweet Peach Iced Tea

A glass of Sweet Peach Iced Tea with ice and a straw and a fresh wedge of peach on the glass
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This Sweet Peach Iced Tea combines two summertime favorites – juicy peaches and cool, refreshing iced tea. With minimal effort, you can whip up a pitcher of sunshine in minutes, perfect for quenching your thirst and satisfying your taste buds.

Get The Recipe: Sweet Peach Iced Tea

Buffalo Chicken Salad

This Buffalo Chicken Salad delivers a fiery kick with every bite. Chunky chicken mingles with crisp celery and tangy blue cheese, all coated in a spicy hot sauce dressing. It’s the perfect balance of cool and creamy with a bold, Buffalo twist – guaranteed to set your taste buds on fire!

Get The Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Grilled Peri Peri Chicken with Sauce

A plate of chicken and rice.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Spice up your life with Peri Peri Chicken, a fiery favorite in both Portuguese and African cuisine! This dish centers around Peri Peri (or Piri Piri) chilies, infusing the chicken with a vibrant marinade that packs a punch. Don’t be intimidated by the heat – the chilies bring a delightful depth of spice, making each bite a delicious adventure.

Get The Recipe: Peri Peri Chicken

Bacon Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

This recipe for Bacon Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing (brought to you by Rachel from Savoring Simple) is a fresh, colorful salad that's great with grilled meats, or on its own as a meal.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe from Rachel of Savoring Simple offers a delicious twist on the classic salad. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, savory bacon, and a bright lemon dijon dressing, it can be enjoyed as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats or as a complete vegetarian meal on its own.

Get The Recipe: Bacon Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing

Best Blueberry Cake {EVER}

The Best Blueberry Cake EVER on a cake plate topped with fresh blueberries
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Calling all cream cheese lovers! This blueberry cake features a secret weapon – cream cheese! It adds an incredible depth of flavor and moisture, resulting in a rich, decadent cake that perfectly complements the sweet blueberries.

Get The Recipe: Best Blueberry Cake {EVER}

Strawberry Lemon Sponge Cake

A slice of Lemon Sponge Cake filled with whipped cream and strawberries on a plate with the cake behind it.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

A stunning lemon layer cake filled with fresh strawberries and cream. This British style sponge cake is tender, moist, and absolutely delectable.

Get The Recipe: Lemon Sponge Cake

Pork Burgers

A juicy pork burger on a bun with lettuce and onions.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Fire up the grill, heat up the stove, preheat the air fryer, or crank up the oven – these pork burgers are your grilling (or frying, or air-frying, or baking) dream come true! Simple and bursting with flavor, they adapt to your favorite cooking method for a delicious and hassle-free meal.

Get The Recipe: Pork Burgers

Cherry Crumble

A spoonful of cherry crumble being served.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Indulge in Homemade Cherry Crumble: The perfect ending to any meal, bursting with warm cherry goodness.pen_spark

Get The Recipe: Cherry Crumble

Best Ever Chicken Salad

a bowl of chicken salad garnished with sliced green onions and sliced of bread next to it
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This easy chicken salad recipe delivers big on flavor! Tender chicken mingles with savory bacon, crisp celery, and pops of green onion for a delightful textural contrast. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch.

Get The Recipe: Best Ever Chicken Salad

Couscous Salad

Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Take your taste buds on a trip to Greece in just 15 minutes with this colorful Couscous Salad! Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or a quick and healthy lunch.

Get The Recipe: Couscous Salad

Best Classic Egg Salad Recipe

A close up image of egg salad with chives
Image Credit: Veronika Idiyat

This recipe is your key to unlocking the ultimate egg salad sandwich. Simple ingredients combine to create a burst of flavor, proving that sometimes, the classics are the best for a reason.

Get The Recipe: Best Classic Egg Salad Recipe

Speedy Potato Salad with Olives & Green Onions

a bowl of potato salad with chicken in the background.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This Speedy Potato Salad recipe is your secret weapon for side dishes! Ready in no time, it boasts fresh flavors from olives and green onions, all tossed with perfectly cooked potatoes. It’s a homemade classic that will outshine any store-bought option.

Get The Recipe: Speedy Potato Salad with Olives & Green Onions

Macerated Strawberries

Close up of sliced strawberries in clear glass bowl glazed with sugar.
Image Credit: Jen Tepp

Fresh strawberries tossed with sugar (along some lemon juice and a bit of salt) draws out moisture, which dissolves the sugar creating a sweet, fruity syrup that coats the berries.

Get The Recipe: Macerated Strawberries with Sugar

Berry Whipped Cream Cake

A layer cake on a cake stand topped with cream and fruit.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This easy recipe for Berry Whipped Cream Cake made with homemade whipped cream and fresh berries looks impressive, but is simple to make.

Get The Recipe: Berry Whipped Cream Cake

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

A close up of a Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with a crumb topping on a serving plate topped with strawberries.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This dazzling Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a fruity marriage made in heaven – simply the best fruit dessert combination for summer entertaining!

Get The Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Easy Homemade Shrimp Salad

Shrimp salad with a lemon wedge and dill garnish.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Don’t stress about appetizers for your next gathering! This Easy Homemade Shrimp Salad is the answer. Light, flavorful, and ready in minutes, it’s a summer staple that everyone will love.

Get The Recipe: Easy Homemade Shrimp Salad

Best Ever Pasta Salad

A close up image of pasta salad with bacon and green onions in a bowl.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Need a quick and versatile side dish that can be customized for any occasion? This “Best Ever Easy Pasta Salad” is your answer! Packed with classic ingredients like bacon, green onions, and cucumber, it forms the perfect base for endless possibilities.

Get The Recipe: Pasta Salad

The Best Hamburger Recipe

A hamburger made piled high with toppings.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Forget dry, disappointing burgers! This comprehensive guide unlocks the secrets to juicy, delicious burgers every single time. Explore different grilling techniques and discover the perfect method for you.

Get The Recipe: The Best Hamburger Recipe

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