Budget-Friendly Summer Recipes

“My Grammie used to make this all the time. We always had zucchini growing in the garden. 2 things you could plan on eating were fried zucchini and zucchini bread. When making this recipe, it always reminds me of my Gram and how she was always in the kitchen cooking something good.” – Kim

“My mom made the best salmon croquettes when we were growing up. She had a limited budget with three teenagers who loved her home cooking. These croquettes are good hot or when served cold on a sandwich.” – Sena

“This can be made in a skillet, cast iron grill, or on the grill. I prepared it in my cast iron grill. With my homemade honey mustard sauce, it’s so tender and juicy!” – Megan

“The first time I saw this was at an office potluck, and I thought ewwww. But let me tell you after I tried it, it quickly became one of my favorites. It’s delicious and easy!” – Angie

“We never use hot dog rolls anymore. These are sooo good and easy to make. My grandkids and kids love these. We all love them. Your kids will love you forever. The egg wash gives them that nice golden look.” – Brenda-Lee

“I like to take a basic recipe and tweak it a bit. I live just up the interstate from Poteet, Texas and I absolutely love strawberries! This recipe works best when you use fresh strawberries. Don’t worry if the berries aren’t sweet enough… macerating them adds to the flavor.” – Shery

“This recipe has been in my family for as long as I can remember. I’m not really sure where it came from exactly but we think that my grandmother, seeing the way her kids liked hot dogs and onions on the streets of NY, came up with her own version at home. My uncle was famous for making this dish and his neighbors always requested it. It always reminds me of him when I make this dish… Miss him!” – Cathy

“Cool and creamy, this tangy cucumber dip flavored with garlic is the perfect complement to grilled meats and vegetables, like souvlaki and fried zucchini.” – Maria

“This easy peach cobbler recipe is buttery and rich, a cross between a cobbler and pie. Amazing served with ice cream year-round.” – Debbie

“This adds lots of flavor to an inexpensive cut. Be sure to slice it across the grain when serving.” – Pamela

“I made this with fresh tomatoes and herbs. This pie can be eaten hot, room temperature, or cold. It is good as an entree served with a salad. It is so good, try it and put a smile on your face.” – Jenny

“I grew up marinating cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes every summer as a side dish. Always a great side to a summertime meal.” – Angie

“We always have an abundance of crookneck squash each year in our garden. I started experimenting with this recipe a few years ago using other fresh vegetables from the garden ~ it’s deeeelicious!” – Holly

“Brining chicken thighs is a juicy and tender way to serve up chicken at your next dinner party!” – Catherine

“This was the first dessert I made for my husband when we started dating. He hates blueberries but he loves this dessert. He really only gets this for special occasions now because it’s very sweet. We serve with vanilla ice cream. It is also a great dessert to bring when you are a dinner guest or a potluck.” – Twana

“I love these two put together. With the dill weed, it gives it just the right kick!” – Hope

“I enjoyed this recipe at a potluck and made a few changes. It is fresh and sassy!” – Mary

“This is a recipe I have been making for my family for as long as I can remember. Every time we have family gatherings they always request it.” – Pam

“If at all possible, use fresh, homegrown tomatoes – you’ll be in heaven!” – Judy

“This recipe is great anytime! I take it to family dinners and fix it in the mornings to take to work for breakfast.” – Erin

“This is my mom’s recipe that I have tweaked. Everyone likes this. I get asked to bring it to parties and picnics.” – Janice

“I had a recipe similar to this and lost it. So, I created this one which I think is even better! My husband and friends love it.” – Marcia

“This is my favorite salsa. Even though it is easy and quick, it is delicious. I grew up with my mom making it. I have streamlined the process so it only takes 5 minutes to make. Enjoy this Salsa Cruda.” – Deedee

“This recipe is fast, easy, and wonderful, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warmed serving of this dump cake. Feel free to use other fruits — this is my son’s and grandson’s absolute favorite.” – Diane

“This is a fast and easy dessert! Everyone thinks I spent all day putting it together. Little do they know how easy it is and, of course, I will never tell.” – Debbie

“I can’t remember where I got this recipe from, but it is so easy and refreshing. A great pie for the summer months.” – Karen

“With the bumper crop of zucchini this year, I had to get creative. I have been making zucchini pancakes using various combinations for many years, but never have they brought the kind of praise from my son and his college friends like this one.” – Deb

“Add a little twist to the common bruschetta (which I love as much), but with a little kick.” – Vera

“I came across a similar recipe years ago and it was good. I tweaked it a bit and now it’s great. This is always a crowd-pleaser and I always get rave reviews. I serve it with crackers or chips.” – Tanya

“Seasoned chicken topped with onions, bell peppers, and plenty of cheese!” – Kevin