When the days get longer and the weather warms up, heavy meals lose their appeal. This is the season for quick, fresh, and vibrant dinners that celebrate what’s growing in the garden and keep kitchen time to a minimum. Whether you’re cooking for two or prepping for the family, these light and easy recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or casual outdoor dining.

Here are four garden-inspired meals that are flavorful, refreshing, and ideal for warm weather evenings.

1. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
   Swap pasta for spiralized zucchini to create a lighter, veggie-packed bowl. Toss with homemade or store-bought pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Add grilled shrimp or tofu for extra protein.
   Try this zucchini noodle recipe with pesto from Love & Lemons.
2. Grilled Veggie Wraps with Hummus
   Grill bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and red onion until lightly charred. Spread hummus on a whole wheat wrap, layer in the vegetables, and add fresh herbs like basil or mint. Wrap tightly and slice in half for a colorful, portable dinner.
   Looking for wrap inspiration? Check out this grilled vegetable wrap.
3. Summer Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
   Sauté fresh corn, snap peas, carrots, and scallions in sesame oil with a splash of soy sauce or tamari. Serve over pre-cooked brown rice or quinoa for a balanced, satisfying bowl.
   Browse seasonal stir-fry ideas from EatingWell.
4. Caprese Salad with a Twist
   Add peaches or strawberries to the traditional tomato-mozzarella combo, and top with a balsamic glaze and torn basil. Serve with a toasted baguette or alongside grilled chicken for a full meal.
   Try this peach Caprese salad from Delish.

Bonus Tips for Summer Cooking

• Keep a batch of lemon vinaigrette in the fridge to dress salads or grain bowls.
  
• Batch-prep grains and roasted vegetables on Sunday to make weekday meals even easier.
  
• Use herbs liberally—fresh parsley, dill, mint, and basil all add a bright, seasonal finish.
  

Warm weather cooking should feel easy, not exhausting. With a few fresh ingredients and light techniques, you can enjoy dinners that taste like summer in every bite.