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As summer comes into full swing, it's the perfect time to refresh your menu with refreshing new dishes. Offering light, flavorful options while incorporating seasonal produce can make your establishment the go-to spot for a summer meal. Here are five seasonal dish ideas to help inspire your summer menu:
1. Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
The sweetness of grilled peaches and the creamy texture of burrata are perfectly accompanied by fresh basil, arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It's a light yet satisfying starter that’s refreshing on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
- Fresh peaches
- Burrata cheese
- Arugula
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
Halve and pit the peaches, then grill them until they are caramelized.
Arrange arugula on a plate, top with grilled peach halves, and place burrata in the center.
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
2. Seafood Paella
Paella is a great way to put fresh seafood in the spotlight, perfect for summer. This Spanish classic is packed with flavors from the sea and fragrant saffron, making it a memorable main course.
Ingredients:
- Arborio rice
- Shrimp, mussels, and clams
- Chicken broth
- Saffron threads
- Onion, garlic, and bell peppers
- Olive oil
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley
Preparation:
Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until softened.
Add Arborio rice and saffron, stirring to coat the rice.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Add seafood and cook until the rice is tender and the seafood is fully cooked.
Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
3. Watermelon Gazpacho
This chilled soup is cool and refreshing, perfect for a hot day. Combining watermelon with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a touch of mint offers a twist on traditional gazpacho that makes this dish even better for summertime.
Ingredients:
- Fresh watermelon
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Red bell peppers
- Red onion
- Mint leaves
- Lime juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
Blend watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, red bell peppers, and red onion until smooth.
Add lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
Serve cold, garnished with mint leaves.
4. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
This dish is a versatile and healthy option that can be served on its own or paired with another side, like a fresh summer salad. The lemon and herb marinade infuses the chicken with bright, zesty flavors.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Lemon juice and zest
- Fresh rosemary, thyme, and oregano
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, zest, chopped herbs, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least an hour.
Grill the chicken until cooked through and golden brown.
Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
5. Mango Coconut Sorbet
This dairy-free dessert is light, tropical, and the perfect way to conclude a lovely summer meal. The combination of mango and coconut provides a creamy, sweet treat that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Ingredients:
- Fresh mangoes
- Coconut milk
- Lime juice
- Honey or agave syrup
Preparation:
Blend fresh mangoes with coconut milk, lime juice, and honey or agave syrup until smooth.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Freeze the sorbet until firm and serve in chilled bowls.
The summer season is the first time to shake up your menu with seasonal ingredients. With your new menu full of refreshing and delicious summer dishes, you’re sure to attract new and old customers.
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