Southern Summer Dinner Ideas: Delicious Recipes to Try

Summer is a perfect time to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the delicious flavors of southern cuisine. The southern region of the United States is famous for its flavorful, comforting, and satisfying dishes that can be enjoyed all year round. In this article, we will explore some of the best southern summer dinner ideas that will delight your taste buds and make your summer meals a memorable experience.

Introduction

The southern region of the United States is known for its rich culinary history and tradition. Southern cuisine is a blend of various cultures and traditions that have evolved over time, resulting in unique and delicious dishes. The southern summer is hot and humid, making it challenging to prepare meals that are light and refreshing yet full of flavor. However, with the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a variety of southern summer dinner ideas that are perfect for any occasion.

H1: Grilled Peach Salad with Pecans and Feta

Grilled peach salad is a delicious and refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of peaches with the tanginess of feta cheese and the crunch of pecans. This salad is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a light main course.

H2: Ingredients:

• 4-6 ripe peaches
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups baby arugula
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey

H2: Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut peaches into halves and remove the pits.
3. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the peaches, cut side down, for 2-3 minutes until they have grill marks.
5. Remove from the grill and let cool for a few minutes.
6. In a large bowl, toss the arugula with feta cheese and chopped pecans.
7. Arrange the grilled peaches on top of the salad.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey.
9. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve.

H1: Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits are a classic southern dish that is perfect for summer. This dish combines the creaminess of grits with the freshness of shrimp and is often served with a spicy and tangy sauce.

H2: Ingredients:

• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

H2: Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil.
2. Add grits and salt, and reduce heat to low.
3. Cook the grits for 5-7 minutes until thick and creamy, stirring occasionally.
4. Add butter to the grits and stir until melted.
5. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning.

6. In the same skillet, add red bell pepper and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
7. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
9. Add the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve the shrimp and grits over a bed of creamy grits and garnish with chopped parsley.

H1: BBQ Chicken and Corn on the Cob

Barbecue chicken and corn on the cob are two classic southern dishes that are perfect for a summer dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for a backyard barbecue or a casual family dinner.

H2: Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Chopped parsley for garnish

H2: Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Brush the chicken thighs with barbecue sauce on both sides.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
6. Brush the corn with melted butter.
7. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s lightly charred.
8. Serve the barbecue chicken with grilled corn on the cob and garnish with chopped parsley.

H1: Peach Cobbler

Peach cobbler is a classic southern dessert that is perfect for summer. This dish combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the warmth of cinnamon and is topped with a crispy and buttery crust.

H2: Ingredients:

• 6-8 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup boiling water

H2: Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix peaches, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and water.
3. Pour the peach mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a medium bowl, mix flour, white sugar, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add melted butter and boiling water and stir until smooth.
6. Spoon the batter over the peaches.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbling.
8. Let the cobbler cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Southern summer dinner ideas are perfect for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to casual family dinners. These dishes are easy to prepare and are packed with flavor and comfort. Try out these recipes and make your summer meals a memorable experience.

FAQs

1. What are some other classic southern dishes that are perfect for summer?

Some other classic southern dishes that are perfect for summer include fried chicken, coleslaw, mac and cheese, and watermelon

2. Can I use frozen peaches for the peach cobbler recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches for the peach cobbler recipe, but make sure to thaw them first.

3. What is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a blend of spices commonly used in Louisiana cuisine, including paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese for the grilled peach salad?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese for the grilled peach salad, such as goat cheese or blue cheese.

5. Can I make the barbecue chicken and corn on the cob in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can make the barbecue chicken and corn on the cob in the oven instead of on the grill. Simply bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 35-40 minutes and roast the corn on the cob at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.