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    Home » MSN Slideshows

    Everyone’s Pretending They’re Over Summer Foods—These 31 Recipes Prove Otherwise

    Published: Aug 24, 2025 by Barbara Curry

    Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links.

    It’s kind of funny how everyone’s pretending they’re over summer foods, but the second you bring out something fresh and seasonal, they’re all in. There’s just something about juicy fruit, crisp veggies, and light, flavorful dishes that keeps the summer vibe alive no matter what the calendar says. Honestly, these kinds of recipes have a way of sneaking back onto the table because they’re just too good to leave behind.

    Grilled Pork Tenderloin With Pineapple Salsa

    A plate of sliced pork tenderloin on rice with pineapple salsa.
    Grilled Pork Tenderloin With Pineapple Salsa. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.


     

    A juicy pineapple pork tenderloin that is first marinated and then cooked on the grill for an easy dinner in less than 30 minutes.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Tenderloin With Pineapple Salsa

    Parsley Pesto Pasta Salad

    A side dish of pesto pasta next to fresh parsley.
    Parsley Pesto Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Butter & Baggage.

    Warm Up Your Winter: Southern Classics!

    FREE EMAIL BONUS: Southern staples made simply & cozy

    This bright and herbaceous pasta salad is one of the best unique cookout recipes for hot summer days.
    Get the Recipe: Parsley Pesto Pasta Salad

    Classic Southern Squash Casserole

    A scoop of a squash casserole.
    Classic Southern Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Butter & Baggage.

    This creamy squash casserole is the nostalgic bake your family didn’t know they needed at the BBQ.
    Get the Recipe: Classic Southern Squash Casserole

    Mexican Cornbread

    Southern cornbread stacked on a platter.
    Mexican Cornbread. Photo credit: Butter & Baggage.

    Loaded with cheese, jalapeños, and corn, this hearty Mexican cornbread brings bold flavor to any spread.
    Get the Recipe: Mexican Cornbread

    Super Creamy Skillet Creamed Corn

    A close-up image shows a skillet filled with creamy corn. A silver spoon holds a portion of the creamed corn, revealing kernels cooked in a luscious sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. The corn looks well-seasoned and ready to serve.
    Super Creamy Skillet Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Rich, buttery Creamed Corn gets a homemade makeover with just four simple ingredients and 10 minutes on the stove.
    Get the Recipe: Super Creamy Skillet Creamed Corn

    Grilled Potato Wedges In Just 20 Minutes

    Someone dipping a potato into a bowl of sauce.
    Grilled Potato Wedges In Just 20 Minutes. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    This easy, 20-minute grilled potato wedges recipe makes light and pillowy potatoes that are crispy on the outside.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Potato Wedges In Just 20 Minutes

    Creamy Red Cabbage Coleslaw With Buttermilk

    A bowl of creamy coleslaw with shredded purple cabbage, carrots, and herbs sits on a gray cloth napkin next to vintage silver utensils—perfect as one of your favorite dinner side dishes.
    Creamy Red Cabbage Coleslaw With Buttermilk. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Looking for a mouthwatering red cabbage coleslaw recipe? Try our quick and easy Southern dish that is perfect for busy cooks. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Red Cabbage Coleslaw With Buttermilk

    The Juiciest Bone In Grilled Pork Chops

    A grilled pork chop next to a sweet potato on a plate.
    The Juiciest Bone In Grilled Pork Chops. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Perfect, juicy grilled pork chops in less than 20 minutes! You never need to have dry pork chops again! (Easy recipe!)
    Get the Recipe: The Juiciest Bone In Grilled Pork Chops

    Creamy Pea Salad With Cheddar Cheese

    A pea salad with cheddar cheese in a serving bowl.
    Creamy Pea Salad With Cheddar Cheese. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    This green pea salad is a Southern favorite that comes together in one bowl. Easy to make ahead, it’s flavorful with a touch of a spicy kick.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Salad With Cheddar Cheese

    Tex-Mex Squash Casserole

    A serving of cheesy casserole topped with sour cream and chopped green onions sits on a dark plate next to a fork. The dish, ideal for Cinco de Mayo recipes, features melted cheddar cheese and visible slices of jalapeño.
    Tex-Mex Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Butter & Baggage.

    Bring a little spice to your table with this cheesy squash casserole that puts a Tex-Mex twist on a Southern favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Squash Casserole

    Corn And Cucumber Salad With Greek Yogurt

    A creamy cucumber salad with corn in a glass bowl with a serving spoon
    Corn And Cucumber Salad With Greek Yogurt. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Jazz up your salad menu with a Corn and Cucumber Salad. The mixture of veggies in a creamy yogurt, mayo and dill dressing make it a favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Corn And Cucumber Salad With Greek Yogurt

    Grilled Shrimp Quesadillas

    A close-up of a grilled quesadilla filled with shrimp, corn, melted cheese, green onions, and fresh cilantro on a plate—perfect for adding to your Cinco de Mayo recipes.
    Grilled Shrimp Quesadillas. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Fire up the grill for easy shrimp quesadillas stuffed with grilled corn and marinated shrimp. Grilled corn and green onions make all the difference for this light and simple dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Quesadillas

    Super Tender Grilled Skirt Steak

    Marinated skirt steak grilled and sliced on a cutting board.
    Super Tender Grilled Skirt Steak. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Infused with tequila, soy sauce, and brown sugar, this skirt steak recipe yields juicy and flavorful meat every time.
    Get the Recipe: Super Tender Grilled Skirt Steak

    Seafood Foil Packets With Old Bay

    Seafood boil packet with shrimp.
    Seafood Foil Packets With Old Bay. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Shrimp boil foil packets are an easy way to get the great flavor of a shrimp boil without standing over the stove. A terrific summertime meal, ready in 30 minutes!
    Get the Recipe: Seafood Foil Packets With Old Bay

    Creamy Macaroni Salad With Cheese

    Creamy macaroni salad with a wooden spoon.
    Creamy Macaroni Salad With Cheese. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    A Southern-style macaroni salad made with a creamy mayo, sour cream and dijon mustard dressing. Mix with cheddar cheese to finish, and served chilled.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Macaroni Salad With Cheese

    Skillet Brown Butter Cornbread

    Skillet Brown Butter Cornbread. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Southern cooking at its best with Brown Butter Cornbread baked in a skillet using fresh corn and sour cream. Make it sweet with something unexpected.
    Get the Recipe: Skillet Brown Butter Cornbread

    The Best Turkey Burger Recipe (So Juicy!)

    A chicken burger with lettuce, tomato, red onion, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing on a sesame seed bun, served on a wooden board with a small bowl of ranch dressing nearby.
    The Best Turkey Burger Recipe (So Juicy!). Photo credit: Lauren’s Latest.

    This juicy Turkey Burger Recipe is flavorful and anything but dry. Packed with simple ingredients that actually keep it moist. A must-try for easy weeknight dinners or summer grilling.
    Get the Recipe: The Best Turkey Burger Recipe (So Juicy!)

    Southern Style Baked Mac And Cheese With Pimentos

    Two plates of pimento mac and cheese.
    Southern Style Baked Mac And Cheese With Pimentos. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Pimento mac and cheese is an easy, baked pasta dish made with zesty pimentos in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with even more golden cheddar.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Style Baked Mac And Cheese With Pimentos

    Broccoli Salad with Cranberries and a Honey Yogurt Dressing

    A bowl of broccoli salad on a serving tray.
    Broccoli Salad with Cranberries and a Honey Yogurt Dressing. Photo credit: Butter and Bagagge.

    A light and fresh broccoli salad coated in a honey yogurt dressing is just what you need for a backyard cook-out or to add to a holiday table. Make it a day ahead and add the dressing an hour before serving.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Cranberries and a Honey Yogurt Dressing

    Grilled Corn With Chipotle Cream

    Three grilled corn on the cob topped with a creamy sauce and chopped green onions are served on a blue plate next to a halved lime.
    Grilled Corn With Chipotle Cream. Photo credit: Spicy Southern Kitchen.

    Grilled Corn with Chipotle Cream is charred to perfection and drizzled with a creamy, smoky, and spicy chipotle cream sauce.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn With Chipotle Cream

    Southern Old Fashioned Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

    Baked macaroni and cheese in a round baking dish on a napkin with spoons.
    Southern Old Fashioned Macaroni And Cheese Recipe. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese from Poole’s Diner is a classic with a creamy base and crusty cheese on top. Comfort food at its BEST.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Old Fashioned Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

    Bow Tie Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto

    Delicious pesto pasta salad with fresh basil and cherry tomatoes in a glass bowl.
    Bow Tie Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Easy to make basil pesto pasta salad with bow tie pasta is a flavorful, colorful side that’s great for summer picnics or cookouts. It’s one of my favorite easy pasta salad recipes.
    Get the Recipe: Bow Tie Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto

    Spicy Thai Chicken Recipe

    Three pieces of grilled chicken breast, a standout among chicken dishes, topped with shredded coconut and fresh basil, served on a dark plate with a flavorful sauce.
    Spicy Thai Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

    This spicy Thai chicken recipe cooks up juicy, flavored packed chicken breasts in 30 minutes for an easy weeknight meal everyone will love.
    Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Chicken Recipe

    Grilled Corn Salad With Blueberries

    A clear glass bowl of corn salad with blueberries.
    Grilled Corn Salad With Blueberries. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    You’ll love this Grilled Corn Salad with Blueberries with a little cumin, onions and cilantro to give this a savory twist.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Salad With Blueberries

    Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

    Ranch pasta salad in a bowl with a wooden spoon.
    Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    With all the classic flavors of creamy ranch dressing, salty bacon, and cheddar cheese, this ranch pasta salad is a refreshing crowd pleaser.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pasta Salad

    Southern Baked Beans With Hamburger Meat

    A skillet of baked beans with ground beef with a serving spoon.
    Southern Baked Beans With Hamburger Meat. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    These easy baked beans with ground beef are a perfect side dish for cookouts. Smoky with a sticky sweet sauce, they’re a classic.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Baked Beans With Hamburger Meat

    Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

    Grilled pieces of chicken topped with sliced green onions on a blue plate, with a side of creamy macaroni and cheese in the background.
    Grilled Huli Huli Chicken. Photo credit: Spicy Southern Kitchen.

    Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian favorite. A simple teriyaki-style marinade gives this easy grilled chicken so much flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

    Tangy Cucumber Salad With Apple Cider Vinegar

    A bowl of cucumber salad with onions and two serving spoons
    Tangy Cucumber Salad With Apple Cider Vinegar. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    This tangy Cucumber Salad is light, refreshing, and since it has no mayo, it’s perfect for warm summer days.
    Get the Recipe: Tangy Cucumber Salad With Apple Cider Vinegar

    Easy Fresh Green Beans And Mushrooms

    Easy Fresh Green Beans And Mushrooms. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

    Learn how to prepare fresh green beans and mushrooms that are crisp, not soggy, with these easy-to-follow steps and tips.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Fresh Green Beans And Mushrooms

    Spiral Hot Dogs

    Two grilled hot dogs in buns topped with shredded cheese, ketchup, mustard, and chili, served on a black plate with a small bowl of yellow mustard and a spoon on the side.
    Spiral Hot Dogs. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Nothing says summer like grilled hot dogs. Improve an American classic with spiral hot dogs for a crispy surface that’s delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Spiral Hot Dogs

    Easy Honey Bbq Chicken

    Chicken wings are on a white plate with sauce.
    Easy Honey Bbq Chicken. Photo credit: Lauren’s Latest.

    Honey BBQ Chicken is made with my homemade Honey BBQ sauce & tender boneless skinless chicken thighs. So easy to do on the grill, oven & more!
    Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Bbq Chicken

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    Barbara holds a tote bag filled with flowers, baguettes, and fresh produce at an indoor market.

    Barbara Curry is the culinary adventurer of Butter & Baggage. With a dedicated enthusiasm for real butter made from happy cows she is in constant pursuit of delicious recipes and tasty dishes. She shares her experiences, ventures, and occasional misadventures because let’s face it things can get messy in any kitchen.

    More about me →

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