26+ Flavorful Martha Stewart Summer Recipes to Spice Up Your Season

Summer is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen, and no one does seasonal recipes quite like Martha Stewart. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a picnic, or just enjoying a relaxing evening, her summer recipes offer something for every occasion. From refreshing salads to decadent desserts, these dishes are as delicious as they are vibrant, showcasing the best flavors of the season. Here are 26+ Martha Stewart summer recipes that will inspire your next meal and make your summer dining unforgettable!

26+ Flavorful Martha Stewart Summer Recipes to Spice Up Your Season

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for yourself, these 26+ Martha Stewart summer recipes bring the vibrant flavors of the season right to your table. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to highlight the freshest ingredients and capture the essence of summer. From simple side dishes to show-stopping desserts, these recipes will make your warm-weather meals even more memorable. So gather your ingredients, embrace the sunny days, and savor the tastes of summer with Martha Stewart’s time-tested recipes.

Grilled Chicken with Peach Barbecue Sauce

This sweet and smoky Grilled Chicken with Peach Barbecue Sauce brings the essence of summer right to your plate.

The aroma of charred chicken mingles with the tangy-sweet perfume of ripe peaches, creating a mouthwatering preview of what’s to come.

Juicy, tender chicken is elevated by the velvety barbecue glaze, which blends fresh peaches, cider vinegar, and a hint of chili powder for depth.

The sauce caramelizes beautifully on the grill, delivering a sticky finish that pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables or a crisp garden salad.

This versatile dish is a standout at backyard cookouts but is simple enough to enjoy on a quiet evening with cornbread or grilled flatbread.

Summer Corn Salad

Bursting with color and crunch, Summer Corn Salad captures everything refreshing about warm-weather produce.

Each bite is a delightful mix of crisp corn kernels, juicy cherry tomatoes, and cooling cucumbers, all tossed in a light lime vinaigrette.

Hints of fresh basil and scallions add brightness, while crumbled feta lends a creamy, tangy contrast.

The natural sweetness of corn plays beautifully against the acidity of the dressing, creating a well-balanced, flavor-packed salad.

Whether served as a standalone light lunch or a zesty side for grilled meats, this salad is the definition of effortless summer flavor.

Lemon-Herb Grilled Shrimp

Lemon-Herb Grilled Shrimp delivers a burst of citrus and herbaceous freshness in every succulent bite.

These shrimp are marinated in a zesty mix of lemon juice, garlic, and chopped fresh herbs like thyme and parsley, then quickly grilled to perfection.

The aroma is instantly tantalizing, with notes of smoke, citrus, and savory herbs wafting from the grill.

Lightly charred on the outside yet juicy and tender within, the shrimp are as elegant as they are easy to prepare.

Serve them over a bed of couscous, a fresh arugula salad, or enjoy them solo with a chilled glass of white wine for a breezy summer treat.

Tomato and Burrata Salad

Creamy meets tangy in the beautifully simple Tomato and Burrata Salad, a tribute to peak-season tomatoes.

Vibrant heirloom slices offer a juicy, sun-kissed sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the rich, buttery texture of burrata.

A drizzle of olive oil, a splash of balsamic, and a scatter of fresh basil complete the dish, adding both aroma and visual flair.

Every forkful is a burst of flavor — creamy, juicy, acidic, and herbal all at once.

Ideal as a first course or a standalone meal with crusty bread, this salad transforms basic ingredients into something truly special.

Grilled Vegetable Sandwich

The Grilled Vegetable Sandwich is a hearty, flavorful ode to the garden harvest and outdoor cooking.

Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are layered between slices of toasted ciabatta and slathered with a garlicky aioli.

Hints of smoke from the grill elevate the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the bread adds crunch and warmth.

A touch of goat cheese or mozzarella can add creamy contrast, but it’s delicious even in its simplest form.

Whether served warm or at room temperature, this sandwich is perfect for picnics, casual lunches, or as a vegetarian main dish.

Blueberry Crumble Bars

Blueberry Crumble Bars are the ultimate fruity dessert that celebrates the sweetness of summer berries.

Each bite features a buttery, crumbly base and topping, sandwiching a vibrant, jammy layer of fresh blueberries.

The aroma of bubbling berries and golden crust fills the kitchen as it bakes, inviting pure anticipation.

With their perfect balance of tart and sweet, soft and crisp, these bars are as delightful with coffee in the morning as they are with ice cream at night.

Perfectly portable and irresistibly nostalgic, they’re an ideal dessert for outdoor gatherings or cozy afternoons indoors.

Grilled Fish Tacos

Grilled Fish Tacos bring the flavors of the ocean to your summer plate in the most satisfying way.

The flaky fish, perfectly grilled with a hint of smoky char, is wrapped in a warm tortilla with fresh cabbage slaw and a tangy crema.

The texture contrast is incredible — tender fish against the crunch of cabbage, with the richness of the sauce bringing it all together.

The zing of lime and cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous pop, while the subtle heat from the salsa gives just the right kick.

These tacos are perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive summer gathering, offering a coastal breeze in every bite.

Watermelon Salad

Watermelon Salad is the ultimate refreshing treat for those hot summer days.

The natural sweetness of the watermelon is complemented by the salty tang of feta, with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

Mint leaves infuse a fragrant freshness, while a sprinkle of red onion provides a slight sharpness to balance the sweetness.

This dish is cool, crisp, and full of vibrant colors, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious.

It’s a perfect side dish for grilled meats or a light lunch on its own, offering a sweet, savory contrast that never fails to delight.

Roasted Tomato Soup

Roasted Tomato Soup is a comforting classic with a summer twist, highlighting the bold, concentrated flavor of fresh tomatoes.

Slow-roasted tomatoes bring out their natural sweetness, creating a rich, velvety base for the soup.

A touch of garlic and basil adds depth, while a swirl of cream makes it irresistibly smooth.

This soup has a deep, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with a crispy grilled cheese for a classic meal.

Serve it warm on a cool evening or chilled for a refreshing summer starter, ideal for any occasion.

Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi is a flavorful, garlicky dish that’s perfect for a light yet indulgent summer meal.

The succulent shrimp are sautéed in butter and olive oil, with garlic and white wine creating an aromatic base that’s rich and savory.

A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley give it a fresh, zesty finish, while the tender shrimp are cooked to perfection.

The dish is great on its own, but when served over pasta, it’s a showstopper.

Whether enjoyed on a romantic dinner date or served at a summer dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.

Grilled Peach Salad

Grilled Peach Salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory, showcasing ripe summer peaches at their best.

The peaches are grilled until caramelized, with char marks enhancing their natural sugars and giving them a smoky depth.

They’re paired with creamy burrata, crisp arugula, and crunchy toasted nuts for texture contrast.

A drizzle of honey and balsamic reduction ties it all together, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity.

This salad is versatile enough to enjoy as a main dish or a side, ideal for light summer lunches or elegant dinner parties.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

Ice Cream Sandwiches offer the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, making them an ideal treat for summer indulgence.

Soft, chewy cookies are filled with velvety ice cream, creating the perfect handheld dessert.

The flavor possibilities are endless, from classic chocolate chip and vanilla to more adventurous combinations like oatmeal and cinnamon.

As you take a bite, the cold, creamy ice cream melts against the warm, cookie texture, making for an irresistible contrast.

These sandwiches are great for parties, picnics, or anytime you want to cool down with a sweet, nostalgic treat.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled Vegetable Skewers are the perfect way to enjoy summer’s vibrant produce in a fun and flavorful way.

Tender bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are skewered and grilled to perfection, with just a hint of smoky char.

The vegetables absorb the grill’s heat while retaining their natural sweetness, creating a beautiful texture contrast between tender and slightly crisp bites.

A drizzle of olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs elevates the flavors, bringing brightness and depth.

These skewers are great on their own, served with rice or quinoa, or paired with grilled meats for a complete summer feast.

Cucumber Salad

Cucumber Salad is the epitome of a refreshing, cool summer dish, perfect for a light side.

The crisp, hydrating cucumbers are sliced thin and tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite.

A sprinkle of dill and a touch of red onion add aromatic complexity, while the acidity of the vinegar balances the natural sweetness of the cucumbers.

It’s a salad that’s as simple as it is satisfying, making it the perfect companion for any summer barbecue or picnic.

Whether served cold or at room temperature, this cucumber salad always hits the spot on hot days.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese Skewers bring the flavors of Italy straight to your summer table in the most delightful bite-sized form.

Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil are threaded onto skewers and drizzled with balsamic glaze for a pop of sweetness.

Each bite bursts with freshness, as the mozzarella melts slightly, complementing the tomatoes’ natural juiciness.

This snack or appetizer is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for an alfresco dinner or as a finger food at your next gathering.

It’s a quick and beautiful way to enjoy a Caprese salad without the fuss of a plate.

Grilled Steak Salad

Grilled Steak Salad is a hearty yet refreshing summer meal that brings together tender, smoky steak and crisp vegetables.

The steak, perfectly charred on the grill, is sliced thin and served on a bed of mixed greens, accompanied by ripe avocado and cherry tomatoes.

The smoky flavor of the grilled steak balances beautifully with the cool, creamy avocado and tangy vinaigrette dressing.

This salad offers a perfect mix of protein and fresh produce, making it filling enough for a main course yet light enough for a warm summer evening.

Pair it with a glass of red wine for a complete dining experience under the stars.

Lemon Sorbet

Lemon Sorbet is the ultimate way to refresh yourself during a hot summer day with its bright, tart flavor.

The sorbet is made from fresh lemon juice and zest, offering a pure, natural citrus flavor that’s both tangy and subtly sweet.

With a smooth, icy texture that melts effortlessly in your mouth, each spoonful is a cool burst of citrus goodness.

Perfect as a palate cleanser between courses or as a stand-alone dessert, it’s light, invigorating, and utterly refreshing.

This sorbet captures the essence of summer with its simplicity and vibrant flavor, making it a go-to treat for any sunny occasion.

Grilled Chicken Salad

Grilled Chicken Salad is a wholesome and satisfying dish that combines smoky chicken with the freshest summer vegetables.

The chicken, marinated in a zesty lemon-herb dressing, is grilled to juicy perfection and sliced over a bed of crisp greens and ripe tomatoes.

The smoky char from the grill pairs wonderfully with the bright, fresh flavors of cucumber, radishes, and arugula.

A tangy vinaigrette ties the dish together, making each bite a balance of savory, fresh, and slightly tart.

It’s a perfect lunch or dinner, ideal for a summer picnic or a light weeknight meal.

Grilled Corn

Grilled Corn brings the simple pleasure of summer’s most iconic vegetable to your grill, with a smoky twist.

The kernels, perfectly charred, offer a juicy sweetness that’s enhanced by the smoky flavor from the grill’s heat.

A dash of butter, a sprinkle of salt, and a squeeze of lime are all it takes to elevate this summer favorite.

The crisp yet tender texture of the corn, combined with its natural sweetness, makes it a perfect side dish for any BBQ.

Serve it with grilled meats or enjoy it solo for a truly satisfying taste of summer.

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake is a nostalgic dessert that brings together fluffy biscuits, sweet strawberries, and smooth whipped cream.

The biscuits are warm and light, offering a perfect base for the juicy, macerated strawberries.

The whipped cream adds a rich, velvety texture, balancing the tartness of the berries.

Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures — crumbly, soft, and smooth — that will transport you to a summer picnic.

This classic dessert is the perfect end to any summer meal, especially when served fresh and chilled.

Pesto Pasta

Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings a taste of Italy to your summer table.

The creamy, aromatic pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan, coats the pasta in a green, fragrant blanket.

The nuttiness of the pine nuts and the richness of the Parmesan add depth to the sauce, while the pasta absorbs the flavors beautifully.

It’s a light yet satisfying dish that works perfectly on its own or as a side to grilled meats or vegetables.

This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on warm summer nights.

Frozen Mango Pops

Frozen Mango Pops are the perfect way to cool down and enjoy the sweet, tropical flavor of ripe mangoes.

The mangoes are pureed to create a smooth, fruity base that’s naturally sweet and refreshing.

A touch of lime juice brightens the flavor, making each bite a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

These pops are as beautiful as they are delicious, with their vibrant orange color and smooth texture.

Ideal for a summer treat, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy on a hot day.

Peach Crisp

Peach Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that celebrates the summer bounty of peaches.

The soft, juicy peaches create a sweet base, topped with a buttery, golden oat crumble that adds texture and richness.

The aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar fills the kitchen as it bakes, inviting you to indulge in the sweet, fruity goodness.

Every bite is a perfect balance of tender fruit and crunchy topping, making it a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat that screams summer.

Lemonade

Lemonade is the ultimate refreshing drink to quench your thirst on a hot summer day.

The tartness of fresh lemons is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of sugar, creating a smooth, tangy beverage.

The bright, citrusy aroma will instantly lift your spirits as the cold, icy drink cools you down.

Simple yet satisfying, this homemade lemonade is much more flavorful than store-bought versions.

Serve it over ice with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon for an extra touch of freshness and color.