45 Mouthwatering Plant-Based Summer Recipes To Try

Discover a bounty of vibrant, delicious plant based summer recipes to elevate your seasonal dining. From refreshing salads to hearty mains, explore the best in fresh, seasonal ingredients for a flavorful and nutritious summer.

As summer rolls around, it’s the perfect time to embrace the abundance of fresh produce and whip up some delicious plant-based dishes for the hot days ahead. Whether you’re a committed vegan or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cool in the summer heat.

From vibrant salads to hearty mains and refreshing drinks, we’ve got you covered with a variety of flavorful and nutritious options. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into a season of delicious plant-based eating!

45 Plant-Based Summer Recipes To Make This Summer

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers:

Did you know grilling vegetables enhances their natural flavors, bringing out their sweetness and creating a delightful smoky taste?

And veggie skewers really easy to make! Marinate your favorite veggies in a mix of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice, then grill them for a flavorful side dish or main course.

Here are some easy recipes with different flavor profiles to inspire you:

2. Watermelon Salad:

Watermelon salad is a delectable summer treat bursting with freshness and flavor. The juicy sweetness of watermelon combines perfectly with the crispness of cucumber, the zing of red onion, and the earthiness of mint. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or sprinkle of feta cheese adds a delightful contrast, making it irresistibly yummy.

Try these this summer:

3. Peach and Arugula Salad:

Peach and arugula salad is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors. Fresh salads are the perfect summer meal. The ripe, juicy peaches complement the peppery arugula perfectly, creating a refreshing and vibrant salad. Topped with crunchy almonds and tangy balsamic glaze, this salad is a delightful explosion of flavors that is sure to please your taste buds.

Recipes to try:

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers:

Stuffed bell peppers are such a flavorful and satisfying dish. The combination of tender bell peppers filled with a hearty mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, ripe tomatoes, and spices creates a delicious and nutritious meal. Topped with melted cheese or a drizzle of sauce, stuffed bell peppers are a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and tasty. I love using a red pepper for these!

Some much-loved stuffed bell pepper recipes:

5. Cauliflower “Steaks”:

Cauliflower “steaks” are surprisingly delicious! Just slice cauliflower into thick “steaks,” brush with olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, and roast until tender. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for soaking up all your favorite flavors.

Try these yummy variations:

6. Vegan Pasta Primavera:

Vegan Pasta Primavera is like a party on your plate! It’s loaded with colorful veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed with pasta in a creamy almond or cashew-based sauce. It’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavor—a perfect dish for summer or anytime you’re craving something tasty and veggie-packed!

Easy recipes:

7. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto:

Zucchini noodles with pesto are a game-changer. Just spiralize zucchini into noodles, toss with homemade or store-bought vegan pesto, and you’ve got a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer. It’s like eating pasta, but healthier and fresher—definitely a must-try for zoodle lovers.

Get zoodly with these simple variations:

8. Mango Salsa:

Mango salsa is a flavor explosion! It’s a mix of diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once, it’s perfect for topping grilled tofu or adding a tropical twist to tacos. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth! It’s perfect for a summer picnic too with its simple ingredients.

Pick your favorite:

9. Black Bean and Corn Salad:

Black bean and corn salad is a summer staple! Just mix black beans, corn, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro with a lime vinaigrette. You can even add sweet potatoes or other summer produce if you’d like it a bit more filling. It’s hearty, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Eat it as a side, scoop it up with chips, or pile it onto tacos—it’s always a hit!

Easy black bean and corn salad recipes:

10. Vegan Gazpacho:

Vegan gazpacho is like a cool breeze on a hot day! It’s a chilled soup made with tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions blended with olive oil and vinegar. It’s refreshing, tangy, and perfect for beating the summer heat. Just blend and chill for a tasty, no-cook meal!

Try these on for taste:

11. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms:

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are a veggie lover’s dream! Just marinate them in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, then grill until juicy and tender. They’re meaty, savory, and perfect for topping burgers or salads. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that makes them irresistible—perfect for a summer cookout!

Don’t shy away from these recipes:

12. Coconut Curry Vegetables:

Coconut curry vegetables are a flavor explosion. Just simmer mixed veggies in a creamy coconut milk curry sauce with garlic, ginger, and spices. It’s comforting, aromatic, and packed with flavor. Serve over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!

Mix it up this summer with these easy coconut curry recipes:

13. Lemon Asparagus Risotto:

Lemon asparagus risotto is a taste of spring! Cook arborio rice with vegetable broth, white wine, lemon zest, and asparagus until creamy and tender. It’s tangy, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavors. The bright lemon and tender asparagus make it a light and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Risotto is one of my favorite dishes in the entire world and this flavor combo does not disappoint!

Make these ASAP:

14. Pineapple Fried Rice:

Pineapple fried rice is a tropical delight! Sauté cooked rice with diced pineapple, bell peppers, peas, carrots, green onions, and soy sauce. It’s sweet, savory, and full of flavor. The juicy pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure.

Put a tropical twist on this dish:

15. Vegan Ice Cream:

Vegan ice cream is a breeze to make and so delicious! Just blend frozen bananas with your favorite mix-ins like cocoa powder, peanut butter, or berries. It’s creamy, sweet, and totally customizable. Plus, it’s a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy anytime!

Try these plant-based ice cream recipes this summer:

These recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures to keep your summer meals exciting and delicious! And now I’m hungry.

5 Hot Tips For Making Plant Based Summer Recipes

Summer is a great time to experiment with new foods. Here are five tips that will make cooking this summer a breeze!

Use Fresh, Seasonal Produce:

Take advantage of the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables available in the summer. They’re not only more flavorful but also packed with nutrients.

Look for juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, crisp bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, cucumbers, eggplant, and green beans. These veggies are not only at their peak flavor but also great for grilling, salads, and light, refreshing dishes.

Keep It Light and Refreshing:

Opt for light and refreshing dishes that won’t weigh you down in the summer heat. Think salads, chilled soups, and grilled vegetables.

Add a Splash of Citrus:

Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges can add a bright, refreshing flavor to your dishes. Squeeze some fresh citrus juice over your salads or use it to marinade your proteins.

Experiment with Grilling:

Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to your food and is a great way to cook in the summer without heating up your kitchen. Try grilling vegetables, fruits, and even pizza for a unique twist.

Don’t Forget the Herbs:

Herbs like fresh basil, mint, and cilantro can add a burst of flavor to your dishes. Add them to salads, marinades, or use them as a garnish to elevate your summer recipes.

Which Recipes Will You Make This Summer?

Whether summer is starting up or winding down, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy these fresh and flavorful plant-based recipes in hot weather. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or keeping things light with a refreshing salad, these recipes are sure to brighten up your summer menu.

So grab your apron, head to the farmers’ market, and get cooking! With these tips and recipes in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of the summer season’s bounty. Cheers to delicious, plant-based eating all summer long!

About the Author

Nicole Booz is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of GenTwenty, GenThirty, and The Capsule Collab. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and is the author of The Kidult Handbook (Simon & Schuster May 2018). She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three sons. When she’s not reading or writing, she’s probably hiking, eating brunch, or planning her next great adventure.

Website: genthirty.com