Summer is a time to enjoy more outdoor activities and less time in the kitchen. Yet, we still crave delicious and nutritious meals that satisfy both our appetites and taste buds. Here, we present a collection of fifteen easy-to-make and budget-friendly recipes perfect for summer dinners. Each dish brings unique flavors and has its own story, making mealtime both enjoyable and effortless.
1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken with Veggies
This dish is inspired by Mediterranean flavors, known for their simplicity and reliance on fresh ingredients like lemon, garlic, and olive oil. Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated for its health benefits and vibrant tastes, making this a perfect summer meal.
- Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (about 600g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (300g)
- 1 large zucchini, sliced (200g)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (150g)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest.
- Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and brush with the lemon garlic mixture. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, and bell pepper around the chicken.
- Drizzle the remaining lemon garlic mixture over the vegetables.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
