Don’t Toss That! Make These 17 Summer Staples Instead

Summer fruits and veggies are way too good to end up in the trash. A few simple staples can totally change the game when it comes to using up that produce before it goes bad. From quick flavor boosts to storage helpers, these essentials make it easier to enjoy every bite. Without them, you’re pretty much guaranteed to be wasting produce all season long.

Caprese Salad

 

This vibrant pasta salad features zucchini ribbons tossed with tangy balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs. It’s a refreshing side dish perfect for summer meals.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinegar

Creamed Corn

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

Peach Cobbler

This time-honored peach cobbler features a juicy peach filling topped with a golden, buttery biscuit crust. One of the most iconic peach desserts, it’s best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Classic Old-Fashioned Peach Cobbler

Cucumber Salad

This light and creamy salad combines the crunch of cucumbers and the sweetness of corn, all tossed in a tangy Greek yogurt dressing. It’s a cool and healthy side dish that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Get the Recipe: Corn and Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt

Fresh Salsa

This refreshing salsa combines juicy peaches, crisp corn, and fresh tomatoes for a sweet-and-savory flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings. It’s an easy appetizer that pairs well with chips or grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Salsa with Peaches and Corn

Peach Pie

A rich and creamy pie featuring layers of fresh peaches nestled in a smooth, custardy base. This refreshing dish is a standout among summer fruit recipes for its simplicity and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Peaches and Cream Summer Pie

Crab and Corn Soup

This Southern favorite combines sweet corn and lump crab meat in a rich, creamy broth, creating a comforting and elegant dish. Perfect for summer evenings, it’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh seafood and seasonal produce.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Corn and Crab Soup

Corn Casserole

This creamy casserole combines sweet corn, savory ham, and rich cream cheese for a comforting side dish that’s perfect for gatherings. It’s a quick and easy recipe that brings together classic flavors in a delightful way.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese and Ham

Pasta Salads

This summer favorite features fresh corn and other in season produce, offering a delightful combination of flavors. It’s a perfect side dish to elevate any summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Charred Corn

This side dishes features charred corn, making it a perfect side for any barbecue. It’s a light and flavorful dish that celebrates the taste of summer.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Charred Corn

Ice Cream

Inspired by the Masters Tournament, these peach ice cream sandwiches combine creamy peach ice cream with soft sugar cookies for a refreshing and nostalgic dessert. A must-try sweet treat that celebrates summer peaches.
Get the Recipe: Peach Ice Cream Sandwich

Corn Salad

This unique salad pairs smoky grilled corn with juicy blueberries, cucumber, and a zesty lime dressing—perfect for picnics and barbecues. It’s a refreshing and colorful dish that showcases the best of summer produce.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Salad with Blueberries

Cobbler Cake

This Southern-inspired cake features sweet peaches nestled in a buttery batter, creating a cobbler-like texture. It’s an easy-to-make treat that brings the comfort of a traditional peach cobbler to your table.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Peach Cobbler Cake

Cold Dips

This easy corn dip combines canned corn, canned Rotel tomatoes and chilies, sour cream, mayonnaise and cheddar cheese. Ready in 10 minutes, serve cold.
Get the Recipe: Cold Corn Dip With Sour Cream And Rotel Tomatoes

Banana Bread

This moist banana zucchini bread is studded with melty chocolate chips, making it a delicious way to sneak veggies into your snacks. It’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Banana Zucchini Bread with Chocolate Chips

Scampi

This fresh take on scampi features tender shrimp paired with zucchini noodles in a garlicky butter sauce. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for a quick dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Zucchini Scampi

Light Pastas

This Southern twist on an Italian classic combines creamy pasta with smoky grilled corn, crispy bacon, and succulent shrimp. It’s a delightful fusion that brings summer flavors to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Carbonara with Grilled Corn