Spring at Trader Joe’s brings the cutest plants and lemon everything
Warmer weather, beautiful blooms, tasty treats—that’s right, spring is almost springing! In typical fashion, there are tons of new Trader Joe’s items for the season that will have you more than ready to make a grocery run. With all the lemon products hitting the shelves, we can tell that TJ’s is all in. There are even a few products perfect for school lunches on the list.
Assorted Foliage in a Bunny
These cuties are a top pick for spring every year, and you’ll want to grab one before your store sells out for the season. They come with a variety of plant options so you might have to get yourself a colony.
Candy Coated Dark Chocolate Almonds
These babies are cute enough for Easter baskets but tasty enough to keep for yourself. They tend to sell out well before the holiday, so snag now before they hop away.
Gourmet Jelly Beans
Just in time for Easter basket stuffing, these big bags of gourmet jelly beans have hit the shelves. You’ll love that they have no artificial colors or flavors. The kids will just love them, period.
Peas & Carrots Sour Gummy Candies
You’ll definitely be able to get the kids to eat their peas and carrots when they come in gummy form. The peas are like sour Skittles and the carrots are a traditional sour gummy candy. Yes, we tried them so that we could report back (that’s the official story, at least).
Pastel Hyacinths
If you’re heading to a spring party this weekend, bring along one of these colorful hyacinths. They’ll dress up any doorstep!
Cheery Lemon Animal Crackers
We’ve never seen these cuties on the shelves before and we know that the kids will go wild to find them in their lunchbox this spring.
Raspberry Kringle
Either you love Kringles or you LOVE Kringles. There’s no in-between. The spring flavor is raspberry and it tops our list for sure. Perfect for breakfast or to share as an after-school snack.
Lemon Mini Sheet Cake
We don’t blame you if this is one of those treats that you don’t share with the kids. You can always find the vanilla version of this cake at Trader Joe’s but the lemon sheet cake is our favorite. It packs just the right amount of sour/sweet punch.
The spring version of this holiday snack mix is cute to have in a bowl for the next party you are planning. It is a mix of yogurt-coated pretzels, butter toffee peanuts, milk and dark chocolate peanut butter cups, broken pieces of dark chocolate Joe-Joe’s, and nonpareils.
Scented Candle Trio
We’re a sucker for all the candles at Trader Joe’s and this one instantly made its way into our cart. You’ll get tiny tins of raspberry/rose, rhubarb/bamboo, and lemon verbena. The lemon is our favorite, naturally.
Mini Succulents
Is it wrong to buy a succulent every time you visit Trader Joe’s? We think not. These cuties were looking extra spring-like with tiny flowers sprouting out of them. Just what you need to get you through the last dreary months before summer comes around.
You’re always looking for meals that are kid-friendly, healthy, easy to put together, and budget-friendly. We found 17 easy Trader Joe’s recipes to add to your arsenal, which we hacked together using ingredients you can find at Trader Joe’s. All these healthy dinners have been tested (and approved) by both grown-ups and kids. Need more inspo? These TikTok Trader Joe’s recipes are also pretty brilliant.
Beef Bulgogi with Cabbage over Rice
Trader Joe's
If you haven't tried Trader Joe's beef bulgogi we suggest you change that immediately. You'll find it in the frozen section and we like that you just need to saute it with some water for a few minutes and it is done. Add in the garlicky cabbage or broccoli for some extra veg and serve it over rice. TJs has frozen rice packets that make this whole transaction done in less than 10 minutes.
Cheesy Beef Birria Tacos
Trader Joe's
Beef birria is having a moment (consommé, anyone?) and we love this easy shortcut from Trader Joe's. You just have to heat up the meat, warm the tortilla, add a little cheese and top with onion and cilantro. Dinner is ready in 15 minutes.
Pesto Pasta with Shrimp
Anna Doogan
Pesto is the star of this easy Trader Joe's recipe that will definitely earn a spot in the summer dinner rotation. Mix your favorite cooked pasta with shrimp and garlicky pesto. Add chopped fresh basil and tomato with a sprinkling of grated parmesan for an extra blast of favorite summery flavors.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Karly Wood
Perfect for both hot summer days or crisp nights, this simple and delicious Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup comes together in just ten minutes. Shred Trader Joe's pre-cooked Lemon Chicken and add to a large stockpot. Toss in two tubs of Mediterranean Orzo Salad and two cartons of chicken broth, bring to a boil and then enjoy with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Penne Arrabiata with Sausage & Spinach
Add some extra protein and greens to your pasta routine with this simple recipe incorporating tasty spices. Remove the casing from your fave Trader Joe's Sausage and cook through before adding to a prepared skillet of Penne Arrabiata (or any other frozen pasta if this is too spicy for your fam). Serve on a bed of spinach, or toss in the spinach right before serving to wilt (and camouflage).
Forgot to take out your dinner ingredients from the freezer (again)? When it comes to enjoying this pot sticker stir fry it's a non-issue! Just pour a bag of Trader Joe's Chicken Gyoza Potstickers and Stir-Fry Frozen Vegetables into a large skillet (add salt and pepper, if desired) and cook until warmed through. Pour in one up of Trader Joe's Gyoza Dipping Sauce and then enjoy a veggie-packed dinner in ten minutes flat.
Easy Gyros & Mediterranean Salad
Karly Wood
Keep it cool and refreshing during the warmer months by whipping up easy gyros. Grab a box of fully cooked Trader Joe's Gyro Slices, naan bread, tomatoes and creamy prepared Tzatziki sauce and pair with a simple Greek salad made with greens, cucumber and balsamic vinegar.
Green Curry Chicken & Fried Rice
Karly Wood
Add a little spice to your dinner routine, and in less than 15 minutes! All it takes is two jars of Trader Joe's Thai Green Curry Simmer Sauce. Prepare a package of Just Grilled Chicken Strips and frozen Vegetable Fried Rice separately. Once the rice is cooked, add both jars of the simmer sauce and chicken to the same skillet and heat until warmed.
Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers
Anna Doogan
For a delicious veggie-centric dinner, stuffed peppers with quinoa and feta are hard to beat. Stuff a variety of peppers with a pre-made quinoa salad, sprinkle with feta and bake until warmed through. You’ll get a bright pop of color, a big boost of vitamins and a whole lot of yumminess with this Trader Joe's recipe.
Expose your kids to a taste of Thai with this easy recipe. Mix a can of coconut cream (also available in a low-fat version) with a bottle of Trader Joe's Thai Red Curry Sauce and simmer. Cube some of Trader Joe's pre-cooked all-natural chicken breast to throw in the pot, and serve over their three-minute rice. You can also add steamed spinach!
Next-Level Ravioli
Sara Olsher
Trader Joe's has a great selection of ravioli, but topping it with marinara can get old. By adding steamed spinach, peas and melted Boursin cheese, this pumpkin ravioli now has three veggies (and they all taste like cheese!).
Carnitas Salad
The cilantro salad dressing at Trader Joe's is no joke, and it's delicious on more than just salads. Create a filling dinner salad or a tasty lunch by adding their pre-cooked carnitas, Mexican cheese, avocado, salsa, cilantro salad dressing and a small amount of sour cream to a bag of romaine lettuce.
Steak Tacos
Anna Doogan
Can’t decide what to have for dinner? A DIY taco bar is a fun and simple crowd-pleaser. While the meat’s cooking, set out tortillas, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, olives and any other toppings you can think of. Then let everyone go to town making their own creation!
Island Soyaki Rice Bowl with Meatballs
Anna Doogan
Taste the flavors of a tropical vacation no matter the time of year with this Trader Joe's recipe. Cook party-size frozen mini meatballs in Island Soyaki marinade, flavored with pineapple juice, garlic and ginger. Serve over cooked rice. Add sautéed red peppers and grilled pineapple chunks, and don’t forget to save a little sauce for drizzling on top.
These tacos can be thrown together in less than five minutes. Pictured below are Guerrero tortillas and Amy's organic refried beans, but Trader Joe's has their own version of both items. Heat the refried beans, then add Trader Joe's Double Roasted Salsa, Mexican cheese, guacamole and chopped spinach.
Scallop Rolls
Anna Doogan
Try a twist on the classic lobster roll! Sprinkle scallops with salt and pepper, and saute in butter. Then tuck them into a squishy hot dog bun with some greens and a dollop of mayo or a tangy tartar sauce. You may not actually be lounging at the seashore, but with this recipe, at least you can pretend you are. Perfection.
Chicken Pasta Salad
Anna Doogan
This salad is perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a portable option for a picnic or potluck. Plus, it’s equally fantastic served warm or cold! Toss cooked pasta with a jar of Corn and Chile Tomato-Less Salsa, black beans, chopped chicken and a bit of creamy dressing, like the tasty Cilantro. Add a handful of your favorite veggies and shredded or cubed cheese to top it off.
Delicious Pulled Pork Tacos
Sara Olsher
Trader Joe's pulled pork can be made in the microwave in three minutes and makes a super-tasty base for these tacos. Add your favorite toppings, but don't skip the Roasted Tomatillo and Mango Salsa, which adds some tang and spice.
—with additional reporting by Kate Loweth, Anna Doogan, and Karly Wood
When it comes to trying to be creative in the kitchen these days, it’s always smart to have quick and easy family dinner ideas up your sleeve. That’s why we’ve collected dynamite dishes that take very little prep work and guarantee to satisfy the whole family. Even better? Some of these quick meal ideas call for the slow cooker!
Cheese? Check. Pasta? Check. Sounds like a total kid-pleasing easy dinner. Throw some rotisserie chicken in at the end of this recipe from The Cozy Cook to make it a one-pot meal.
We’re always looking for recipes that taste just like (better?) our favorite take-out items. This recipe for Cashew Chicken fits the bill, and it’s made in one skillet. Get the recipe from Modern Honey.
So maybe your kiddo hates peas. Or carrots. Or both. The good news is, this easy family dinner idea from The Cozy Cook is super adaptable, so you can throw in whatever the kids will actually eat.
Chicken Marsala is one of the ultimate comfort foods. This easy dinner recipe from Easy Chicken Recipes uses an Instant Pot to get the meal done in under 30 minutes, so we’re huge fans.
Beef stroganoff is a classic pasta dish, and this ground beef version from Chelsea's Messy Apron comes together quickly. It's a meal that even picky eaters can get behind. Get the recipe here.
It's right there in the title. This chicken is a little bit of heaven. It's also convenient, delicious, and can be adapted for Paleo diets! Grab the recipe by clicking here.
Ham and Swiss cheese nestled into pasta and baked to perfection? Yes, please! This surprisingly simple recipe can be made ahead of time and popped into the oven before dinner time. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island.
You’ll be able to serve up warm, tangy sandwiches in no time with this 30-minute recipe for Chicken Cordon Blue from Sprinkles and the Smiths. Best of all, it can be made in an air fryer, which makes it (almost) healthy.
Sheet pan nachos are a good option for busy families because you can add what you want, divide it up into sections for picky eaters, and of course, they’re ready in under 30 minutes. Get the scoop from Maple + Mango.
This chicken recipe is a keeper when it comes to weeknight dinner recipes! It only has a few ingredients, so you can get this into the Crock Pot in the morning in less than ten minutes! Get the recipe here.
Love your Instant Pot? Then you'll love this weeknight dinner recipe! Just sauté your beef, add veggies, beans, and spices and the pressure cooker will do the rest. Click here for the recipe.
The flavor of the sausage, parmesan cheese, and olive oil gives this dish all the seasoning it needs, which means there's no heavy sauce to make on the side. Get the recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron.
These meatloaf bites from our friend Catherine McCord of Weelicious are petite versions of your favorite comfort food. And you can bet they're perfect for kids' taste buds!
With BBQ sauce, pineapple, and rotisserie chicken, this pizza couldn't be more simple. Get the kids in on the cooking to make dinnertime extra fun! Click here for the recipe.
This pasta dish isn't too fancy, sports kid-friendly ingredients, and is sure to be a weeknight dinner recipe that you'll make again and again. Bonus: It only gets one pot dirty! Get the how-to here.
Everyone's favorite party app also makes a great dinner-in-a-pinch! And with just two ingredients and four steps, kids can help whip these up! Make your own with this recipe from Bake Me Some Sugar.
Creamy fettuccine Alfredo that's healthy, too? The secret to this recipe is sneaking spinach into the sauce and adding pre-cooked chicken. Get the recipe here.
Think outside the grilled cheese! These rollups have the classic taste kids love, with just a bit of a twist. And they only take 10 minutes to make! Find out how here.
You can fulfill your Korean food cravings in 15-20 minutes with this beef bowl recipe. And you probably have the ingredient list in your pantry! Click here for the recipe.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish
iStock
Want to introduce the kiddos to fish? Try this mild white fish covered in a crunchy parmesan crust. The ingredients are simple, and the flavors are excellent! Get the recipe here. Or, if you want to try salmon, check out our family-friendly salmon recipes here.
Is there anything more comforting than chicken and rice? We don't think so. This quick one-pot version from Scrummy Lane is one of our favorite easy family dinner ideas.
Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki
iStock
Fact: Kids love teriyaki. Another fact? This recipe from Our Little Acre uses the slow cooker and is super simple to make. What's not to love?
It doesn’t get much easier than this 5-ingredient taco salad from the food blog, Sweet Phi. If you dare go above the five ingredients feel free to sub in or add your toppings suited to your kiddos’ taste buds. Either way, we promise this turkey taco salad dinner will be one of the easiest and tastiest you’ve ever made.
Ingredients for Turkey Taco Salad
1 lb ground turkey, extra lean
1 cup salsa, divided
6-8 cups romaine (or lettuce of choice)
1 cup tortilla chips
1 cup shredded cheese (I use Mexican blend cheese or pepper jack)
Notes from the Chef:
• If making this salad to eat later, cook the ground turkey and salsa, and store it in an air-tight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
• This salad is good with both warm or cold ground turkey
• Alternatively you could use slow cooker salsa chicken as a topping (just put salsa and chicken in a crock pot on low for 6 hours and then shred when done).
Method for making Turkey Taco Salad:
1. Pour ½ cup salsa into a large frying pan, add the ground turkey, and cook it, breaking it up as you cook it. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through.
2. In a large bowl (or 4 small bowls) divide out the lettuce.
3. When the turkey is done cooking spoon out on top of the salad, pour the remaining salsa on top of the ground turkey, then add the cheese and tortilla chips (I like to crush some of the tortilla chips as I add them to the top the salad).
While this recipe certainly wouldn’t satisfy chicken parm traditionalists, we can’t help but love how easy it is
Once again the crock pot comes to the rescue for this version of chicken parm. Merely throw all three (yes, it only takes three!) ingredients, cook on low for 6-8 hours and you’ve got a hearty meal. Since this Crock Pot chicken parmesan recipe doesn’t require dredging the chicken in egg and bread crumbs, the cleanup is oh-so-easy as well. Be sure to check out our other favorite crock pot recipes!
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Ingredients:
18 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
Preparation Method:
1. Place chicken in the crock pot. If you’re using frozen chicken tenders, no need to thaw.
2. Pour the spaghetti sauce over the chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. Before serving sprinkle the cheese over the chicken and sauce. Re-cover to let the cheese melt.
These one-pot and grill meals from Trader Joe’s will definitely make your life easier
Summertime is all about ease, and meals shouldn’t be an exception! With a few favorites in your pantry, these Trader Joe’s dinner ideas come together almost effortlessly, leaving more time for you to enjoy those long days with your little ones. There’s a recipe in this list that’s guaranteed to please everyone, even the picky eaters at your table.
Mini Chicken Wonton Stir Fry
Trader Joe’s
There’s pretty much nothing easier than a stir fry, can we agree? This one is a twist as it features the mini wontons that are everyone’s favorite. Cook them up according to the package directions and then sautee the broccoli slaw and garlicky cabbage when the wontons are done. Add a bit of stir fry sauce to bring it all together.
Chicken Pasta Salad
Anna Doogan
This salad is perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a portable option for a picnic or potluck. Plus, it’s equally fantastic served warm or cold! Toss cooked pasta with a jar of Corn and Chile Tomato-Less Salsa, black beans, chopped chicken, and a bit of creamy dressing, like the tasty Cilantro. Add a handful of your favorite veggies and shredded or cubed cheese to top it off.
Shawarma Chicken Bowls
Trader Joe’s
Fire up the grill and cook up these chicken thighs that are full of flavor. The base of this dish is brown rice that cooks in the microwave. Top with grilled chicken and roasted Brussels sprouts along with a drizzle of lemon and a dollop of garlic hummus. The pita bite crackers add a bit of crunch.
Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers
Anna Doogan
For a delicious veggie-centric summer dinner, stuffed peppers with quinoa and feta are hard to beat. Stuff a variety of peppers with a pre-made quinoa salad, sprinkle with feta and bake until warmed through. You’ll get a bright pop of color, a big boost of vitamins, and a whole lot of yumminess.
Easy Gyros & Mediterranean Salad
Karly Wood
Keep it cool and refreshing during the warmer months by whipping up easy gyros. Grab a box of fully cooked Trader Joe's Gyro Slices, naan bread, tomatoes, and creamy prepared Tzatziki sauce and pair it with a simple Greek salad made with greens, cucumber, and balsamic vinegar.
Greek Bowls
Trader Joe’s
All you have to prepare is the quinoa for this easy summer lunch or dinner. It packs a punch of protein so we love it as our base topped with pre-cooked chicken breasts, tomatoes, Greek chickpeas, and diced cucumbers. The vegan tzatziki dip brings it all together.
BBQ Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw
Anna Doogan
BBQ pork sandwiches are one of the quintessential backyard summer meals, and they're oh-so-simple with a few shortcuts. Pre-made shredded pork heats up in minutes, and the coleslaw mix can quickly be thrown together, leaving extra time for you to toss that frisbee with the kids a few more times.
Scallop Rolls
Anna Doogan
One of our favorite Trader Joe's dinner ideas? A twist on the classic lobster roll! Sprinkle scallops with salt and pepper, and saute in butter. Then tuck them into a squishy hot dog bun with some greens and a dollop of mayo or a tangy tartar sauce. You may not actually be lounging at the seashore, but with this recipe, at least you can pretend you are. Perfection.
Steak Tacos
Anna Doogan
Can’t decide what to have for dinner? A DIY taco bar is a fun and simple crowd-pleaser. While the meat’s cooking, set out tortillas, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, olives and any other toppings you can think of. Then let everyone go to town making their own creation!
Next-Level Ravioli
Sara Olsher
Trader Joe's has a great selection of ravioli, but topping it with marinara can get old. By adding steamed spinach, peas and melted Boursin cheese, this pumpkin ravioli now has three veggies (and they all taste like cheese!).
Island Soyaki Rice Bowl with Meatballs
Anna Doogan
Get all the beach feels with a tropical-inspired rice bowl. Cook party-size frozen mini meatballs in Island Soyaki marinade, flavored with pineapple juice, garlic and ginger. Serve over cooked rice. Add sautéed red peppers and grilled pineapple chunks, and don’t forget to save a little sauce for drizzling on top.
Pesto Pasta with Shrimp
Anna Doogan
Pesto is the star of this easy pasta recipe that will definitely earn a spot in the summer dinner rotation. Mix your favorite cooked pasta with shrimp and garlicky pesto. Add chopped fresh basil and tomato with a sprinkling of grated parmesan for an extra blast of favorite summery flavors.
Carnitas Salad
The cilantro salad dressing at Trader Joe's is no joke, and it's delicious on more than just salads. Create a filling dinner salad or a tasty lunch by adding their pre-cooked carnitas, Mexican cheese, avocado, salsa, cilantro salad dressing and a small amount of sour cream to a bag of romaine lettuce.
Delicious Pulled Pork Tacos
Sara Olsher
Trader Joe's pulled pork can be made in the microwave in three minutes and makes a super-tasty base for these tacos. Add your favorite toppings, but don't skip the Roasted Tomatillo and Mango Salsa, which adds some tang and spice.
With these ideas, there’s no need to cook or worry about what to bring to that BBQ
Who wants to spend a hot summer day cooking in the kitchen? Not us! With these ideas, there’s no need to cook or worry about what to make for dinner or bring to the family gathering. From caprese to Greek-inspired, bookmark these pasta salad recipes for all those hot summer nights ahead.
Tri-Color Pasta Salad
iStock
This go-to pasta salad recipe is as easy as they come. You can use cheese, olives, cucumber or any other assortment of veggies. You can even swap regular pasta for tortellini. Get the recipe here.
What do you get when you combine pasta and Caesar salad? This dish from Life Made Simple! It’s loaded with all the classic flavors you expect—crisp romaine, pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes and lots of cheese! For the recipe, click here.
Caprese is a great way to entice little ones to eat fresh fruits and veggies! Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil come together with the pasta shape of your choice in this recipe from Pip & Debby. Make as a tasty side dish or a meal, you can't go wrong with this perfect pasta.
Summer Orzo Pasta Salad
iStock
Oh, my, orzo! Here's why this pasta salad is a thing of beauty: it only has a few ingredients, the flavors are fresh and summery, and it's delicious cold or at room temp. Add it as a barbecue side or serve it up as the main course! Get the recipe here.
Homemade lemon basil vinaigrette and flavorful pasta come together in this recipe from Gimme Some Oven. Fresh ingredients like artichoke hearts, asparagus and cheese round out this perfect picnic side dish that may also just convince a picky eater to eat, too!
Bacon, lettuce and tomato plus pasta? We are SO in! This 15-minute BLT pasta salad recipe from Busy Budgeter means your dinner is ready in a flash. Top with your homemade salad dressing and enjoy not sweating it out in the kitchen.
Perfect for a potluck or meal prep, Plain Chicken's Greek pasta salad recipe is packed with flavor. Fresh ingredients like tomato, basil, and lemon juice make this dinner refreshing and will transport you straight to Greece!
Do your little ones love pizza? Then this dish from Dear Crissy is sure to be an instant hit! It's got the all-important pepperoni, and you can customize it with additional "toppings" that usually grace your 'za.
This idea from The Creative Bite has all the flavors of your fave tailgating dish and is super easy to whip up. It also has some sneaky veggies, and you can include crumbled bleu cheese on the side!
Tortellini is a kid favorite, so why not take a cue from Peas and Crayons and turn it into a delish cold salad? Toss with some homemade dressing and sneak in some healthy veggies and you're all set!
Pass the pesto! This nut-free sauce makes any pasta salad delicious and can be paired with all the additional ingredients you want. (Veggies? Cheese? Both?) It's a cinch to make—get the recipe here.
Bring on the broccoli with this dish from Boulder Locavore! Not only is it a great way to eat your green veggies, but it also skips the usual pasta salad mayo for a zesty dressing.
Looking for the most flavorful pasta salad around? Dive into this dish from Chelsea's Messy Apron, which has tons of veggies, an adaptable chili-lime dressing, and tons of summer corn! Trust us, you'll want seconds.
Amp up an average summer barbecue! This pasta salad recipe from I Wash You Dry sports crisp veggies and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Bonus: It calls for ramen noodles and rotisserie chicken—no muss, no fuss!
There's no reason vegans can't get in on the summer pasta salad fun! The Minimalist Baker has you covered with a dish that veers away from dairy and eggs.
Kiddos love grapes? Then it's time to bust out this great grape pasta salad recipe from Cooking Classy. It's got a slightly sweet dressing and makes for a refreshing addition to a summer picnic.
Need a pasta salad PDQ? This simple dish takes almost no time to make. Classic flavors, veggie-ful, and totally delish, it'll be your new go-to BBQ side dish. Get the recipe here.
Chances are you have spaghetti in the pantry—and this idea from Dinner at the Zoo is the perfect use for it! It's also filled with crunchy vegetables for an extra healthy kick.
Prepping for a picnic? Don't forget this gluten-free dish from Boulder Locavore! It's just like the old-school pasta salad that you had when you were a kid and even sports healthy twists like grated carrot.
This deli-inspired salad from The View from Great Island is a great way to please the meat lovers in your family. You can also customize it with whatever meats you have in the fridge for an extra easy summer meal.
When you’re sweating it out in the summer, the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove and make an elaborate dinner. From refreshing salads and cold dinner ideas to delicious wraps, we’ve whipped up a list of our favorite summer recipes that don’t involve cooking. Take a break from the oven and make one of these tasty no-cook meals!
These fresh and delicious shrimp spring rolls from Tastes Better from Scratch are such an easy cold dinner idea, you’ll want to add them to your recipe rotation ASAP.
Grab a bag of pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, roast chicken, peanuts, and other yummy ingredients like ginger, soy, and of course, peanut butter, and whip up this Thai-inspired chicken salad from Pinch of Yum without ever having to turn on the stove or oven.
Great as a side or a delicious dinner, this summer corn salad is refreshing and light. Made with a homemade dressing, you can easily dress up this salad by adding a protein and make it easier, by chopping up everything the night before! Find the recipe at Hip2Save.
Psst! The secret to this chicken salad from How to Feed a Loon—besides fresh and simple ingredients—is that it uses rotisserie chicken. It makes the prep work extra easy and the result extra delicious. Enjoy it as a sandwich or on top of a bed of lettuce!
Mexican Bean Salad
Canva
Now, this is our kind of cooking: the most work you’ll have to do for this Mexican-inspired salad is chopping and opening a few cans of beans. And since letting it sit helps the flavors meld together, it tastes even better the day after you make it. To get the recipe, click here.
Your mind will be blown when you try this tomato sauce that doesn’t require any cooking at all. Just throw all the ingredients into the blender or food processor and prepare to be impressed. Click here to grab the recipe.
These tasty pinwheels from Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish make the perfect lunch or light dinner. With an assist from a rotisserie chicken, a little spinach, and a sprinkling of taco seasoning, they’re as tasty as they are a healthy summer recipe.
One of our favorite cold dinner ideas! Inspired by the classic lobster roll, you can make these with pre-cooked crab from the store. With a few other ingredients, you’ll have a no-cook meal ready in under 30 minutes. Click on the picture for this incredible summer recipe.
What do you get when you combine pasta and Caesar salad? This dish from Life Made Simple! It’s loaded with all the classic flavors you expect—crisp romaine, pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and lots of cheese!
It doesn’t get much more refreshing than this noodle-free pad Thai by Cookie and Kate. Fresh and crunchy veggies are coated with a sweet, tangy, slightly salty peanut sauce to make a fabulous light dinner.
This Dutch recipe from A Gourmet Food Blog has all the makings of an instant kid favorite: crusty bread, lunchmeat, and a little mayo. It’s a fun way to take your bologna sandwich to the next level.
For a super fresh and satisfying dinner, you’ve got to try this fun take on taco boats from Minimalist Baker. Veggies are nestled into leaves of romaine, then it’s all drizzled with hummus and a creamy tahini sauce.
When it’s too hot to contemplate cooking, a bagel bar is THE way to go. There are a million delicious ways you can layer them up, and the results can be as hearty and healthy as you want. Get inspired to make your own over at The View from Great Island.
Here’s a win-win idea from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook: skip the over-complicated summer meal and get the kids to eat more greens. They’ll love this cobb salad, which sports delicious add-ons like avocado, smoked turkey, and egg.
When you need a summertime meal, keep it simple! Combine fresh mozzarella and tomatoes for an easy peasy, kid-approved salad. For the quick how-to, (courtesy of Chef Brendan Collins), click here.
These rollups from Arla are a great way to change up a lunch routine or give your usual summertime dinner a new spin. Use your favorite cheese, add in some extra veggies for a healthy kick, and you’re good to go!
Psst! Looking for a salad that won’t trigger your picky eater’s veggie radar? This no-cook meal from Dinner at the Zoo is loaded with meat, cheese, olives and yes, veggies, so it’s got a range of tasty ingredients. You can even top it off with a homemade Italian-style dressing!
This delicious wrap idea from Chelsea’s Messy Apron is super flavorful and even includes hummus and a bunch of good-for-you vitamins and minerals. Eat it straight-up as a summertime salad or just have a tasty wrap for dinner!
For a cold dinner idea that everyone will love, why not go the classic route of sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta? This salad is a cinch for picky eaters—just arrange it on the table salad-bar style, which allows each family member to create their own unique dish. Snag the recipe for this no-cook meal here.
Watermelon beverages, horchata ice cream, and a brand new Jangle have us ready for summer
Hot days and long pool stays are around the corner! When it comes to embracing the sweet sounds and tastes of summer, no one does it better than Trader Joe’s. The next time you head out to your favorite neighborhood market, make sure you pick up some of these seasonal Trader Joe’s summer items to make your sunny days all the tastier. You’ll find refreshing watermelon beverages, perfect picnic snacks, peony-scented candles, and bulk margaritas for your next party.
Enchanted Jangle
Like the holiday favorite Jingle Jangle, this version is guaranteed to be your kids’ favorite. In this mix, you’ll find lemon-yogurt-coated animal cookies; chocolate-coated pretzel nuggets; strawberry-yogurt-coated marshmallows; sweet, pink-and-orange-swirled confectionery chips; and savory, salted waffle pretzels.
Sparkling Watermelon Juice
We love this refreshing beverage for all those pool days.
Cold Brew Iced Tea
Skip the traditional cold brew coffee and go for this black tea and lemon version for a lighter summer sipper.
Donuts Forever Truffles
We love these cuties on a dessert plate for those summer soirees.
We’ve got easy-prep picnic food ideas so you can spend more time on the blanket and less time in the kitchen
It’s prime picnic season, so make sure you’re prepared with a full lineup of crowd-pleasing picnic snacks. From no-cook s’mores to deviled eggs, we’ve got you covered with easy picnic snacks and picnic food ideas for kids that you can tote to the park, beach, or wherever else your summertime adventures take you.
Fruit is always a good picnic snack, so take it to the next level with this easy dip from Chelsea's Messy Apron. With just four ingredients, it's an easy addition to your al fresco menu.
Fluffy and salty, air fryer pretzels are a super easy snack to pack for your upcoming picnic. Enjoy a la carte or pack a special dipping sauce to them to the next level. Head to Bitz & Giggles for the full recipe.
No one wants a messy meal when it comes to a picnic! These fried lemon hand pies pack all the sweet punch, can be made in advance and keep the mess to a minimum. Head to Food Fanatic for the full recipe.
A sandwich is just a sandwich until you make it look like sushi! We love this tuna fish version from Weelicious, but you can swap in turkey or cream cheese for something different.
Who wants regular muffins when you can bring corn dog muffins on your picnic? Made with cornbread and hot dogs, these fun snacks make mealtime fun. Don't forget the ketchup! Head to Karen's Kitchen Stories to snag the recipe.
What's a picnic without deviled eggs? With this super simple recipe, it's easy to ensure that your al fresco meal includes this delicious staple. Older kids can even make their own version! Grab the how-to here.
Ready for mac and cheese, picnic-style? These awesome bites from Damn Delicious are an easy way to make your picnic menu even more kid-friendly. They're portable, the perfect serving size, and tasty, too! Get the recipe here.
Since picnic season usually collides with the strawberry season, we can't think of a better sweet treat for your outing than these oatmeal bars from Well Plated. They're easy to make, about 100 calories each, and sure to become a family favorite! For the recipe, click here.
Love Mexican corn on the cob, hate the mess? Whip up a batch of this dip from Damn Delicious, which has the same tasty flavors but no cob cleanup! Pack it into a Tupperware for easy dipping or spoon individual portions into mason jars—voila! You can snag the recipe here.
It's easy to get your picnic cookie fix, thanks to this idea from Love to Be in the Kitchen. They're packed full of peanut butter, chia seeds, honey and mini M&Ms, which makes them excellent fuel for all that post-picnic playtime. Get the recipe here—and discover more energy bites here!
The best way to keep cool during your picnic? With a batch of this fresh ginger lemonade by Daphne Brogdon! Make it the night before and portion it out into mason jars or water bottles to stay hydrated all afternoon long. To get the recipe, click here.
This idea from Super Healthy Kids gives sandwiches a fun new twist! Get the kids involved with cookie cutters and they'll love stacking their favorite sandwich ingredients. To get all the details, click here.
Part of Hello Wonderful’s Cooking with Kids series, this unique take on salad features colorful ingredients the kids will be excited to prep and eat (Psst! And cleanup couldn't be easier!). To get the recipe, click here.
This sweet and salty treat from Averie Cooks is sure to satisfy even the pickiest picnic-goer. The best part? No baking required! Find out what you'll need to get started over at Averie Cooks.
The Merry Thought’s sweet twist on sandwiches is better than sliced bread! Load up the apple slices with your fave nut butter, Nutella, granola or any other creative ingredient. Click here to get the recipe.
Even the littlest chef can help mash and mix avocado! We like this "cheaters" guacamole recipe from Averie Cooks, which makes it easy to make a delicious dip ASAP. Visit Averie Cooks for the full recipe.
Need a meat-free option for your next picnic? This healthy hummus sandwich from HowDoesShe is super easy to assemble and packed with protein and a little crunch. Yum! To get the recipe, click here.
These ultra-colorful fruit cups are easy to assemble and packed with healthy Vitamin C. Older chefs can even help cut the fruit! Head over to My Frugal Adventures for advice on choosing the best stackable fruits.
You won't have to build a fire to enjoy a campfire staple. This tasty twist on the classic s’mores dessert makes it great for daytime picnics, too! Find the recipe at 5 Minutes for Mom.
This fab picnic snack is easy to customize with everything from pretzels to nuts, dried fruit, or bite-sized chocolate chips. It’s the perfect portable treat for a day at the park! Get more info (including recommended ingredients!) at The Chirping Moms.
Amp up your picnic with edible pinwheels! These bites are easy for kids to assemble with cheese and deli meat. A Mom's Take used pretzels as skewers in lieu of toothpicks.
