Summer is finally here, and it’s time to get creative with kid-friendly recipes that are not only delicious but also fun! As parents, we know how challenging it can be to keep our little ones engaged in the kitchen without making a mess. That’s why we’ve put together a list of 20 refreshing summer recipes for kids that are easy, fun, and perfect for warm weather. From classic treats like homemade strawberry popsicles and banana peanut butter roll-ups, to healthier options like mini veggie quesadillas and cheesy zucchini muffins, there’s something on this list for every young chef.
In the following pages, we’ll take you through a world of colorful and tasty recipes that your kids will love. From sweet treats to savory snacks, our summer recipe collection has got it all! So go ahead, get your kids involved in the kitchen, and make some unforgettable memories together.
Fruit kabobs with yogurt dip
A colorful and refreshing summer treat that’s perfect for kids’ parties or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fresh fruit (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Thread fruit onto skewers in a colorful pattern.
3. Brush with a little water and place on the grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly caramelized.
4. In a bowl, mix yogurt and honey until smooth.
5. Serve kabobs warm or at room temperature with yogurt dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time)
Homemade strawberry popsicles
Beat the heat with these refreshing homemade strawberry popsicles! Made with fresh strawberries, yogurt, and a touch of honey, these treats are perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries until smooth.
2. In a bowl, combine the strawberry puree, yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
4. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold.
5. Place the molds in the freezer and let freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Once frozen, remove from the molds and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Rainbow fruit salad
Add a pop of color to your table with this vibrant Rainbow Fruit Salad! This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, orange, and kiwi.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the fruit and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Watermelon pizza with berries
Discover a refreshing twist on traditional pizza by combining the flavors of watermelon and berries. This unique dessert pizza is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together watermelon and honey until well combined.
3. Roll out the pizza crust to desired thickness.
4. Spread the watermelon mixture over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with mixed berries.
6. Drizzle lemon juice over the berries.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and fruit is tender.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana peanut butter roll-ups
A sweet and satisfying snack that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter, all wrapped up in a convenient roll-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 tsp honey (optional)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey (if using).
3. Spread a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture onto each banana piece.
4. Roll up each banana piece tightly, applying gentle pressure to compress the filling.
5. Roll the oats between your hands to break them down slightly, then use them to coat the outside of each roll-up.
Cooking Time:
– 0 minutes (serve immediately)
Mini veggie quesadillas
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these bite-sized mini veggie quesadillas! This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 small flour tortillas (6-8 inches)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add one-quarter of the bell peppers, mushrooms, and cilantro on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious mini veggie quesadillas!
Ants on a log with raisins
This classic campfire treat gets a sweet twist with the addition of plump raisins. A simple and satisfying snack for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped raisins
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Wooden skewers or sticks (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Add the chopped oats to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped raisins and sesame seeds.
4. Shape the mixture into small logs, about 1 inch long and 1/2 inch thick.
5. Serve the “ants” on a log on wooden skewers or sticks.
Cooking Time: None! This snack is best served at room temperature or slightly warmed from a campfire.
Frozen yogurt-covered blueberries
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing treat that combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with the creamy goodness of frozen yogurt. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup plain frozen yogurt (any flavor)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Spoon a small amount of frozen yogurt onto a plate or serving surface.
3. Place 2-3 blueberries in the center of the yogurt.
4. Drizzle with honey, if using, to add an extra layer of sweetness.
5. Cover the berries with another spoonful of frozen yogurt.
6. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy! If desired, you can also place the covered blueberries in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to firm them up before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Apple sandwich with peanut butter
This sweet and satisfying sandwich combines the crunch of fresh apples with the richness of creamy peanut butter, perfect for a quick snack or lunchtime treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole wheat bread
– 1-2 crisp apple slices (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– Optional: honey, chopped nuts, or cinnamon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Lay out the two slices of bread on a clean surface.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter evenly onto one slice of bread.
3. Arrange 1-2 apple slices on top of the peanut butter.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Optional: drizzle with honey, sprinkle with chopped nuts or cinnamon for added flavor.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve immediately.
Cheesy zucchini muffins
A twist on traditional muffins, these cheesy zucchini muffins combine the flavors of summer with the comfort of melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, softened butter, eggs, and shredded cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta salad with hidden veggies
A delicious and healthy pasta salad that hides veggies like zucchini and carrots, making it perfect for picky eaters!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp. mayonnaise
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine spiralized zucchini, grated carrots, and halved cherry tomatoes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta to the yogurt mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Add the veggie mixture to the pasta mixture; toss until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Peach and yogurt parfaits
Peachy Keen Parfaits: A Refreshing Treat for Warm Days
These parfaits are a sweet and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of peaches and yogurt. Layered with crunchy granola and fresh mint, they’re perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into the bottom of a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the diced peaches, followed by half of the granola.
4. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining yogurt mixture, then the peaches, and finally the granola.
5. Drizzle the heavy cream over the top layer of granola.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This parfait is ready in just a few minutes.
Turkey and cheese pinwheels
A tasty and easy-to-make snack or lunch option that combines the flavors of turkey, cheese, and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced deli turkey breast
– 8-10 tortilla wraps (flour or whole wheat)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a clean surface.
2. Arrange 2-3 slices of turkey breast horizontally across the center of the wrap, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the turkey.
4. Add a few chopped spinach leaves on top of the cheese.
5. Spread a small amount of mayonnaise along the edges of the wrap, about 1 inch from each end.
6. Roll the wrap tightly into a pinwheel shape, applying gentle pressure to compress the filling.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and refrigerate or serve immediately.
Homemade fruit leather
Create a healthy and delicious snack for your family with this simple homemade fruit leather recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. Combine berries, honey, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor.
3. Blend until smooth, leaving some texture if desired.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Pour the fruit mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Spread evenly into a thin layer, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Bake for 3-4 hours or overnight (8 hours).
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
9. Cut into strips or rolls.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Enjoy your homemade fruit leather as a healthy snack or use it in place of traditional fruit roll-ups.
Cucumber and cream cheese bites
These refreshing bites are perfect for a light snack or appetizer, featuring the coolness of cucumber and the richness of cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 crackers (e.g. Ritz or saltines)
– Optional: paprika or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth. Add parsley and season with salt and pepper.
3. Arrange crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese mixture onto each cracker, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with a cucumber slice.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until crackers are lightly toasted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with paprika or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Berry smoothie bowls
Get ready to start your day with a burst of flavor and nutrition! This Berry Blissful Smoothie Bowl recipe combines the sweetness of mixed berries, the creaminess of yogurt, and the crunch of granola for a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen berries, Greek yogurt, honey, and almond milk. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
3. Top with rolled oats, chopped almonds, and a pinch of salt.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (blending time only)
Mini corn dog muffins
Sweet and savory, these bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of corn dogs with the convenience of a muffin.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Hot dogs, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, and melted butter. Add dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in hot dog pieces.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Brush tops with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet potato toast with toppings
Sweet Potato Toast with Toppings Recipe
A twist on traditional toast, sweet potato toast is a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option. Roasting the sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toppings (choose one or more):
+ Crispy bacon bits
+ Fresh avocado slices
+ Fried eggs
+ Sprouts
+ Goat cheese crumbles
+ Honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and rub with olive oil.
3. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Let the sweet potatoes cool slightly before slicing into 1-inch thick rounds.
5. Toast the slices until crispy, then top with your chosen toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Peanut butter banana sushi rolls
A creative twist on traditional sushi rolls, these bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of bananas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place a slice of banana in the middle of the rice.
4. Spread 1 tsp of peanut butter along the length of the banana.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients and roll shapes.
7. Slice into bite-sized pieces.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (prep and rolling)
Rainbow veggie wraps
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with these vibrant wraps, packed with a rainbow of veggies and creamy hummus.
Ingredients:
– 1 package whole wheat tortillas (6-8 wraps)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together black beans, bell peppers, carrots, and cucumber.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the veggie mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Spread about 1 tablespoon of hummus on top of the filling.
6. Roll up the wrap tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preheating oven)
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these fun and easy recipes that kids will love! From refreshing fruit kabobs with yogurt dip to homemade strawberry popsicles, there’s something for every little foodie. Other tasty treats include watermelon pizza with berries, banana peanut butter roll-ups, and cheesy zucchini muffins. Plus, learn how to make mini veggie quesadillas, ants on a log with raisins, and sweet potato toast with toppings. These 20 summer recipes are perfect for kids of all ages and are sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or picnic!
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