Most splendid readers, as the warm summer days approach, I am delighted to share with you 22 cheap and savory meal ideas that will surely tantalize your taste buds without emptying your coin purse.
From refreshing salads to grilled delights, these budget-friendly recipes will keep you satisfied all summer long.
So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in delicious dishes that won’t break the bank!
Refreshing Salads
Before I probe into the world of the cool and crisp, let’s explore some delightful salad options that will keep you refreshed and satisfied during the hot summer months.
Summer Fruit Salads
Refreshing summer fruit salads are my go-to choice when I want something light, sweet, and bursting with flavors. Combining a mix of fresh berries, watermelon, and citrus fruits can create a colorful and rejuvenating dish that is perfect for a hot summer day. Top it off with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of mint for an extra burst of freshness that will leave you feeling energized and ready to take on the day.
Garden Greens with Grilled Chicken
One of my favorite ways to enjoy a hearty yet light meal in the summer is by indulging in a garden greens salad with delicious grilled chicken. The combination of tender greens, juicy chicken, and tangy vinaigrette dressing creates a satisfying and wholesome dish that is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner.
Plus, grilled chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which will keep you feeling full and satisfied without weighing you down. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor that will elevate this simple salad into a gourmet feast.
Sizzling Grilled Delights
You may be surprised to find out that grilled meals can be both delicious and budget-friendly. Here are some scrumptious grilled summer meal ideas that won’t break the bank.
Burgers Under $5
One of my favorite go-to summer meals is a juicy burger fresh off the grill. The best part? You can make these mouthwatering burgers for under $5 per serving. Simply mix ground beef with seasonings, form patties, and grill to perfection. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese.
Skewers of Colorful Vegetables
An array of fresh vegetables threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection make for a vibrant and budget-friendly meal option. Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are all great choices for these skewers. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, and grill until tender.
With their colorful appearance and delicious flavor, these vegetable skewers are sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering.
Grilled Chicken Breasts with Lemon and Herbs
An elegant yet simple dish, grilled chicken breasts marinated in a mixture of lemon, herbs, and olive oil are a perfect addition to your summer menu. The fresh and zesty flavors of the marinade infuse the chicken with a burst of taste, making every bite a delight.
Grilled to perfection, these flavorful chicken breasts can be served with a side of salad or grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooling Soups
Many find that during the hot summer days, a refreshing bowl of cold soup can be the perfect way to cool down. Here are some delightful cooling soup recipes to try out this summer.
Chilled Cucumber Soup
An excellent option for a light and revitalizing summer meal is a chilled cucumber soup. This soup is easy to make by blending cucumbers, yogurt, mint, and a hint of garlic together. It’s refreshing and hydrating, making it an ideal choice for a sweltering day.
Gazpacho with a Twist
Cucumber is a key ingredient in this twist on the classic gazpacho soup recipe. It adds a crisp and refreshing element to the dish, making it perfect for a hot summer day.
With a combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and a splash of vinegar, this gazpacho soup is a burst of flavors. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and cool.
Creamy Tomato Soup with a Crunchy Crouton
For a more substantial yet still cooling option, try a creamy tomato soup with a crunchy crouton. This soup combines the richness of tomatoes with the crispiness of croutons, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down in the summer heat. The crunchy croutons add an extra layer of texture and flavor to the creamy soup, making each bite a delightful experience.
Pasta Perfection
One-Pot Pesto Pasta
OnePot As the heat of the summer sun beats down, the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving away in a hot kitchen. That’s why I adore this One-Pot Pesto Pasta recipe. It’s a quick and easy dish that combines the freshness of basil and the richness of parmesan cheese for a delicious meal that will have you coming back for seconds.
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil
On There’s something magical about the combination of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil in this Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil recipe. The simplicity of the ingredients allows their flavors to truly shine, making this dish a refreshing and satisfying choice for a summer meal.
Fresh This pasta dish celebrates the best of summer produce with the juicy sweetness of tomatoes and the aromatic herbaceousness of fresh basil. It’s a light and healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Quick and Easy Mac ‘n Cheese
Cheese There’s no shame in admitting that sometimes you just crave the comfort of a classic mac ‘n cheese. This Quick and Easy Mac ‘n Cheese recipe is the perfect solution. With its creamy cheese sauce and gooey goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in no time.
With This recipe takes the fuss out of traditional mac ‘n cheese by streamlining the cooking process. It’s a kid-friendly favorite that will also satisfy the grown-ups at the table. Whether as a main dish or a side, this mac ‘n cheese is sure to be a hit.
Savory Sandwiches
All summer, I find myself craving simple and satisfying sandwiches. Whether enjoying a picnic in the park or a lazy afternoon by the pool, sandwiches are a perfect summer meal option. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, there’s a sandwich to suit every taste bud.
Classic Club Sandwiches
Any time I think of a classic sandwich, the club sandwich comes to mind. With layers of turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo between slices of toasted bread, it’s a timeless favorite. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a filling and delicious option for a summer lunch or dinner.
Grilled Cheese with Fresh Figs and Prosciutto
For a more gourmet twist on the traditional grilled cheese, try adding fresh figs and salty prosciutto. The sweetness of the figs pairs perfectly with the savory prosciutto, creating a decadent sandwich that’s perfect for a summer evening. It’s a delightful combination that will elevate your grilled cheese game and impress your taste buds.
For a unique and sophisticated take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, try adding fresh figs and prosciutto. The sweetness of the figs pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto, creating a delicious and elegant flavor profile. This gourmet twist on a childhood favorite is sure to impress your family and friends at your next summer gathering.
Tasty Turkey Wraps
Sandwiches are a timeless meal option that can be easily elevated with the right ingredients. When I’m looking for a light and flavorful option, I turn to tasty turkey wraps. Filled with thinly sliced turkey, creamy avocado, crispy veggies, and a drizzle of ranch dressing, these wraps are a refreshing and satisfying choice for a summer meal.
Tasty turkey wraps are a versatile and delicious meal option for the summer months. These wraps are filled with juicy turkey, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies, making them a flavorful and satisfying choice for lunch or dinner. The addition of ranch dressing adds a tangy kick that ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
Sizzling Skillets
After a long day, nothing beats a satisfying meal cooked in a sizzling skillet. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these skillet recipes are quick, easy, and budget-friendly.
Breakfast for Dinner: Scrambled Eggs and Sausage
The combination of fluffy scrambled eggs and savory sausage is a classic comfort food that never fails to hit the spot. You can whip up this delicious meal in no time, making it perfect for those busy summer evenings when you want something hearty and filling. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies or cheese you have in the fridge.
Quesadillas with Shredded Chicken and Veggies
Sausage perfectly seasoned shredded chicken and crispy veggies sandwiched between two crispy tortillas make for a mouthwatering meal that you can enjoy anytime. This dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to use up any leftover ingredients you have on hand. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can customize to suit your taste preferences.
Shredded cheese, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream can add extra flavor and creaminess to this dish. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of veggies and seasonings to create a quesadilla that you truly love.
One-Pot Chicken Fajitas
OnePot chicken fajitas are a winning meal that combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices in one pot for easy cooking and cleanup. This dish is perfect for a summer dinner with friends or family, as you can simply serve the fajitas straight from the skillet for a casual and delicious meal.
Chicken fajitas are customizable, so feel free to add your favorite toppings such as salsa, avocado, or cilantro to enhance the flavor. This meal is ideal for a laid-back summer evening when you want something tasty and fuss-free.
Final Words
Considering all points discussed in this article about 22 cheap summer meals ideas, I hope you found inspiration for creating delicious and budget-friendly meals to enjoy during the upcoming summer months. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy recipes or creative ways to use seasonal produce, these meal ideas are sure to delight your taste buds without breaking the bank. So why not try out a few new recipes and add some variety to your summer menu?