cheap summer meals

Summer is AMAZING, right?

Longer days, sunshine, and lots of time for fun.

But figuring out what to eat every day can feel like a chore.

Especially when you’re trying to save some cash.

You want food that’s delicious and EASY, but doesn’t cost a fortune.

Finding meals that check all those boxes, especially during warmer months, can be TOUGH.

Good news! Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank.

We’ve gathered 20 fantastic ideas for cheap summer meals that are simple and satisfying.

Get ready to find some new favorites that are kind to your wallet AND your schedule.

1. Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme Recipe

Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme Recipe

Make your own Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme at home, it’s way better than takeout!

This copycat recipe is stuffed with all your favorites, like taco meat, nacho cheese, and a crispy tostada crunch.

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2. One Pan Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

One Pan Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Craving a simple vegetarian dinner?

Our One Pan Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is a quick and easy meal, full of flavor and super satisfying.

Enjoy this delicious enchilada skillet!

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3. Turkey Patties (Use Up Leftover Turkey)

Turkey Patties (Use Up Leftover Turkey)

These Turkey Patties are the perfect way to use up that leftover turkey.

Enjoy delicious turkey patties that you can easily make on the stovetop or in the air fryer.

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4. vegan creamy spinach garlic pasta with cashews and parsley

vegan creamy spinach garlic pasta with cashews and parsley

This vegan spinach garlic pasta is simple, healthy, and packed with flavor.

It’s a creamy, comforting dish made with cashews, spinach, and garlic that you’ll want to make again and again.

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5. Lemon Basil Chicken

Lemon Basil Chicken

Lemon Basil Chicken is a quick and easy meal to make any night of the week.

It’s healthy, flavorful, and all made in one pan, featuring the bright taste of lemon and tomato basil with juicy chicken.

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6. Simple Greek Salad

Simple Greek Salad

Whip up this Simple Greek Salad in just five minutes!

Using a few key flavors, this gluten-free, grain-free, keto, and low-carb recipe can be a restaurant-quality side in no time.

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7. Chicken Fajita Foil Packets

Chicken Fajita Foil Packets

Chicken Fajita Foil Packets are the perfect crowd-pleasing meal filled with Mexican spiced chicken, peppers, and onions!

Cook these delicious chicken fajitas on the grill or in the oven, then load them up with your favorite toppings and enjoy.

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8. One-Pan Lemon Thyme Chicken

One-Pan Lemon Thyme Chicken

One-Pan Lemon Thyme Chicken is the perfect weeknight meal for a simple, quick dinner.

Tender, flavourful chicken drumsticks roast together with colourful veggies in a delicious lemon-herb butter.

Enjoy an easy-to-make and clean meal with this all-in-one pan!

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9. Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe (Taco Bell Copycat)

Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe (Taco Bell Copycat)

Enjoy a Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe that tastes just like Taco Bell’s!

This copycat recipe, full of flavorful beef, brings a taste of your favorite pizza right to your kitchen.

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10. Avocado Egg Salad

Avocado Egg Salad

Avocado Egg Salad is a delicious and creamy twist on the classic egg salad.

Combining perfectly hard-boiled eggs with ripe avocado and fresh herbs, this recipe makes a wonderfully light and flavorful lunch.

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11. Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti is a quick and easy dish that’s packed with flavor.

Toss it with your favorite protein for a tasty meal or serve it as a simple side.

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12. Easy Italian Pasta Salad

Easy Italian Pasta Salad

Easy Italian Pasta Salad is the perfect quick dish to make for any occasion!

This recipe is packed with salami, mozzarella, veggies, and pasta, all tossed in a delicious Italian dressing that will make it a summer staple.

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13. Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Pepperoni Pizza Pockets

Pepperoni Pizza Pockets are the answer to quick and easy meals that everyone enjoys.

These homemade pizza pockets are filled with delicious pepperoni flavor, making them perfect for kids and adults.

Enjoy a simple and tasty snack or meal with this recipe!

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14. Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect way to enjoy a taste of summer. This pasta salad features fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and is bursting with bright, tangy flavors.

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15. Veggie Fried Rice

Veggie Fried Rice

Veggie Fried Rice is packed with colorful veggies and comes together in a flash!

This vegetarian fried rice recipe is the perfect, quick, and easy side for the whole family to enjoy.

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16. Vegetable Lo Mein

Vegetable Lo Mein

Craving takeout but want something healthier?

This Vegetable Lo Mein recipe features fresh noodles and crisp, colorful veggies tossed in a delicious savory sauce for a dish that tastes just like your favorite restaurant version.

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17. Korean Beef Bowls

Korean Beef Bowls

Korean Beef Bowls are the perfect easy weeknight meal.

Enjoy savory ground beef with steamed rice and fresh vegetables.

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18. Summer High Protein Lemon Dill Lentil Risotto (vegan)

Summer High Protein Lemon Dill Lentil Risotto (vegan)

This Summer High Protein Lemon Dill Lentil Risotto is a vibrant, vegan dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors.

It’s a creamy, comforting risotto that uses lentils for a protein boost and a light, summery twist with lemon and dill.

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19. Slow Cooker Black Beans

Slow Cooker Black Beans

Enjoy the ease of this Slow Cooker Black Beans recipe!

Flavorful black beans, seasoned simply with garlic and onion, make the perfect side.

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20. Curry Chicken Salad

Curry Chicken Salad

Curry Chicken Salad is a creamy, delicious mix of chicken, veggies, dried fruit, and nuts.

Enjoy this quick and easy meal as a sandwich, with crackers, or in crisp lettuce cups!

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