Beat the Heat: 5 Summer Recipes You Need These Holidays

Who knew beating the heat could be so deliciously simple? These summer dishes are all about keeping things light and easy, giving you more time to enjoy your holidays that are just around the corner! They’re quick to prepare, require minimal cooking, are loaded with fresh ingredients full of nutrients, and, best of all, they’re absolutely scrumptious.

While you’re slicing, dicing, and enjoying the sunshine, remember that MarkSmart isn’t here to just streamline your marking during the school terms. Think of us as your behind-the-scenes support crew, ensuring you can savour every bit of your holiday without a worry, too! 

1. Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing

There’s nothing quite as refreshing as a bowl of chilled tropical fruit on a scorching summer’s day. This fruit salad is a breeze to whip up and perfect for any time of day!

Ingredients:

• Mixed tropical fruits (mango, pineapple, kiwi, and papaya), 2 cups chopped
• Honey, 2 tablespoons
• Fresh lime juice, from 1 lime
• Fresh mint leaves, a handful, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped fruits.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and lime juice until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavours meld.

Serving suggestion: Serve this fruity delight on its own or take it to the next level with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt.

2. Refreshing Watermelon Smoothie

Hydration is key in the summer, and what better way to stay hydrated than with a delicious watermelon smoothie? This drink is hydrating and equally rich in nutrients!

Ingredients:

• Watermelon, 4 cups cubed and seedless
• Lime, juice of 1
• Mint leaves, 10-12 (plus extra for garnish)
• Ice cubes, 1 cup

Instructions:

1. Place the watermelon, lime juice, mint leaves, and ice cubes in a blender.
2. Blend on high until smooth.

Serving suggestion: For an extra boost, add a scoop of vanilla or flavourless protein powder before blending, making it an excellent post-workout refreshment!

3. Classic Caprese Salad with a Balsamic Drizzle

A dish as simple as it is elegant, the Caprese salad is perfect for those days when even flipping a switch seems like too much. Fresh, light, and bursting with flavours, it’s a classic recipe that never fails to please.

Ingredients:

• Ripe tomatoes, 3 large, sliced
• Fresh mozzarella cheese, 200g, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a platter, overlapping for effect.
2. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the slices.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving suggestion: This salad is perfect on its own or as a stunning side dish to grilled meats or seafood at a summer BBQ.

4. Greek Chicken Salad Wraps

These healthy wraps are a godsend on warm days when you crave something filling yet light. Packed with flavour and easy to make, they’re perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner.

Ingredients:

• Cooked chicken breast, 2 cups shredded
• Mixed salad greens, 2 cups
• Cherry tomatoes, 1 cup halved
• Cucumber, 1 medium, sliced
• Red onion, 1 small, thinly sliced
• Feta cheese, 1/2 cup crumbled
• Whole wheat wraps, 4
• Tzatziki sauce, 1/2 cup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Lay a wrap flat and spread a layer of tzatziki sauce over the surface.
2. Top with a handful of salad greens, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roll up the wrap tightly, then cut in half diagonally.

Variations: Swap out the chicken for grilled lamb, or for a vegetarian twist, use grilled zucchini and bell peppers. If you’re after a gluten-free option, switch the whole wheat wraps for sweet potato boats! 

5. Mango and Black Bean Salsa with Tortilla Chips

This salsa is a vibrant, flavour-packed dish that serves as a perfect snack or light meal. It’s an awesome combination of sweet and savoury, with a bit of a spicy kick!

Ingredients:

• Ripe mango, 1 large, diced
• Black beans, 1 can (400g), drained and rinsed
• Red bell pepper, 1, diced
• Red onion, 1 small, finely chopped
• Jalapeño, 1, seeded and finely chopped
• Fresh coriander, 1/4 cup chopped
• Lime, juice of 1
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Corn tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine mango, black beans, bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and coriander.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Allow the salsa to sit for at least 30 minutes to let the flavours meld together.
4. Serve with homemade tortilla chips.

Serving suggestion: If you want to ditch the tortilla chips, this salsa also makes a fantastic topping for grilled chicken or fish, adding a tropical flair to any meal!

Wrapping Up

And there you have it! Five simple, delicious recipes to help you keep cool and make the most of your summer holidays. Each of these dishes is designed to be easy on your time and big on flavour, allowing you to soak up every sunny moment without being tied to the kitchen.

Remember, these upcoming school holidays should be all about relaxation and enjoyment. You truly deserve this break.

Here’s to a summer filled with plenty of flavour and fun, and the freedom to enjoy every moment!