I look forward to summer cookouts all year long – there is truly nothing like sitting at a picnic table packed with food and surrounded by friends.
When it’s hot outside, chances are you (and your guests) are craving something refreshing. However, you don’t want to be stuck inside preparing the food all day while everyone else hangs out.
That’s why we gathered our favorite cookout-friendly dishes that are fresh, quick, and budget-friendly. Think no-cook side dishes, make-ahead meals, and sweet treats featuring fresh seasonal produce.
Whether you’re looking for something to bring to a potluck or you’re prepping for a weekend cookout at home, get ready to spend more time with your loved ones – and less time in the kitchen.
Homemade Cookout Recipes
We love seasonal produce here at Choose Homemade, and a summer cookout is the perfect way to show off what you picked from the garden or brought home from the local farmers market. By using simple ingredients – think summer staples like tomatoes, cucumbers, and watermelon – you avoid unnecessary added sugar and sodium.
We know hosting can be expensive, so these easy cookout recipes are here to help you stretch your budget and keep guests satisfied.
No-Cook Dishes to Beat the Heat
No stove? No problem.
These no-cook dishes are perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the stove or oven.
Bonus: You can make each of these recipes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve.
Apple Radish Coleslaw
All you need to do is prepare the ingredients and toss them together – that’s it!
Fruit Necklaces
This is the perfect activity for children – just wash the fruit and let them unleash their creativity.
Crisp Cucumber Watermelon Salad
Watermelon will forever remind me of summer – and this easy cucumber and watermelon salad will have your guests impressed by the beautiful presentation (and taste!)
Summer Produce Spotlight: What’s in Season?
Try these seasonal fruits and vegetables this summer at your next cookout:
- Cucumbers
- Bell peppers
- Corn
- Zucchini
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
- Peaches
- Blackberries
Just grill or serve fresh to enjoy the easiest, most flavorful summer side dishes you’ve created yet.
Sounds too good to be true?
You would be surprised by how popular a simple grilled corn on the cob is – and don’t even get me started on grilled peach slices.
They might just change your life.
Easy Make-Ahead Dishes for Cookouts
On the day of your cookout, you will want to spend more time with friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Try one of these make-ahead dishes for a relaxed, stress-free cookout experience.
Chunky Homemade Salsa
Picnic Potato Salad
Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Cool and Healthy Cookout Desserts
Think quick, cool and refreshing: these cookout desserts are easy to prepare and perfect for making a batch big enough for a crowd.
Fresh Melon Popsicles
Customize this recipe with any variety of melon available at the farmers market – watermelon, cantaloupe, or honeydew!
Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble
You may be thinking “what’s refreshing about a warm strawberry rhubarb crumble?”
Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll see why this dish is featured on our list of cool cookout-friendly desserts.
Frozen Yogurt Bark
We love this dish for its flexibility, taste, and the fact that it only takes 10 minutes to make.
Smart Tips for Cookouts on a Budget
Cookouts don’t need to set you back in your health goals (or break the bank). Use these tips to keep your cookouts simple and affordable:
- Shop in-season produce.
- Choose simple dishes.
- Make food in advance so you can enjoy the moment.
With the right recipes, you’ll enjoy low-stress hosting and refreshing summer recipes all season long – without breaking the bank.
Try Something New This Summer!
So what are you waiting for?
Pick a recipe and use it to gather your friends and family for a shared meal. Find more healthy, easy, affordable recipes on the Choose Homemade website, and use the filter option to see full lists of party favorites, side dishes, and more.
Let’s make this summer full of good food, good fun, and good community – one homemade meal at a time.