It’s not that I don’t love to cook. There are few things that I love more than spending an evening experimenting with one of the new dinner recipes I’ve been eyeing. But a warm summer night just doesn’t feel like the time for spending hours in the kitchen or complicated dinner recipes that will equal a sink full of dirty dishes—especially when I’d rather be jumping in the water or gazing at the stars. Luckily, these one-pot summer meals have come to the rescue and given me more freedom to enjoy everything the season has to offer.
We think it’s time to savor these longer nights by leaning on one of these delicious one-pot summer meals that are big on flavor, not on prep time. There’s something for everyone, from the most ardent foodie to the pickiest eater in the family. Keeping meal prep and clean-up simple doesn’t have to mean skimping on taste. These nourishing, creative, and healthy meals are sure to knock your socks off.
Scroll on for my 15 favorite one-pot summer meals that’ll get you out of the kitchen and around the table.
One-Skillet Shrimp and Cannellini Beans in Tomato-Chile Broth from Bon Appétit
Looking for a dish that’s as cozy and warm as it is easy and convenient? Then look no further than this brothy beans and shrimp dish.
One-Pot Cauliflower Dal Green Curry from Minimalist Baker
As nutritious as it is tasty, this Indian- and Thai-inspired one-pot summer meal uses split mung beans and green curry paste. Yum!
One Pan Spring Tuscan Quinoa Bake from Half Baked Harvest
Tieghan from Half Baked Harvest has a knack for making comfort food healthy (ish!) and this is comfort food at its finest.
One-Pot Summertime Pasta
Refreshing and light, while still being hearty enough to satisfy a big-time pasta craving, this dish uses some of our favorite summer ingredients and is a breeze to whip up.
One-Pot Kale and Quinoa Pilaf from Food52
Work this healthy, protein- and antioxidant-rich dish into your weeknight rotation, it couldn’t be more delicious if you tried!
Clam and Cod Chowder from Bon Appétit
Cozy up during the next summer story with this delicious chowder. Use clam juice to throw together a quick weeknight meal or make fish stock from scratch if you’ve got extra time.
One Pan BBQ Chicken Burrito Bowls from TheKitchn
Sometimes, a burrito just hits the spot—but the number of dishes you usually have to clean up afterward rarely makes it worth it. This one-pot summer meal satisfies the burrito craving without the mess.
One-Pot Pasta Primavera with Summer Veggies and Ricotta
Get your fill of summer vegetables with this one-pot pasta. If you ask me, it doesn’t get any better than this pasta, veggie, and ricotta situation!
One Skillet Paleo Mediterranean Chicken from Paleo Newbie
Get this yummy paleo dinner on the table in just a few minutes. All you need is a little chicken and a lot of veggies for a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Chicken Thighs with Tomato, Orzo, Olives, and Feta from Food52
Throw together this dish when you’re low on time during a busy work week and enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.
Cajun Shrimp and Rice from Martha Stewart
Put a spin on traditional jambalaya with this veggie-forward shrimp and rice dish from Martha Stewart.
One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pesto and Artichoke Pasta from Half Baked Harvest
Take advantage of artichoke season the next time you’re craving Italian food and make this lemony, pesto-y, and healthy-ish pasta.
One-Pot Mexican Shrimp with Orzo and Zucchini from Foodie Crush
A one-pot dish and a 30-minute meal all in one? Yes, please. The combo of the zucchini juxtaposed with the heat from the Mexican flavors makes this a healthy treat for all.
Thai Veggie Quinoa Bowl From Avocado Pesto
Look no further for the perfect one-pot summer meal. It’s got crunch, tang, and is as delicious as it is easy to make. Since it’s vegan and gluten-free, those with food restrictions can enjoy it as well!
Chicken Fajitas and Rice from Fed and Fit
Try out this foolproof chicken fajita recipe next time you want to get a full meal that is quick, easy, and insanely flavorful.
