We’ve officially entered the heart of summer, which means we’ve been taking advantage of these long days to pack in as much adventuring as possible. Swimming, hiking, fishing, oh my! There are so many fun things to do in Toledo during this time of year. After all of that exploring is over, you’ll want to refuel with a nutritious meal. There are so many fruits and vegetables that will reach their peak in the coming weeks, so take advantage of that and create some truly seasonal recipes that are refreshing, nutritious and delicious. But don’t take it from us — these local bloggers in Ohio have mastered the art of summer cooking. Peruse this list of our favorite recipes we’ve found. You’ll get some kitchen inspiration, and maybe find a new favorite blog to follow! Breakfast
PB & J Stuffed French Toast
Photo courtesy of Saving 4 Six
PB & J sandwiches are always at the core of childhood summer memories. Why not channel that flavor into a nutritious and delicious breakfast? This recipe from Saving 4 Six is easy to make for the kids on a weekday, or can be amped up to a fancy brunch treat. Kitchen Sink Breakfast Skillet
Photo courtesy of Simply Taylor
There are so many veggies in their prime during the summer months. Use them to create this colorful breakfast skillet, which is filled with fiber and nutrients to keep you full through lunch or later. Taylor uses a combination of sautéing veggies on the stove and baking them in the oven for the perfect consistency! Sides or Appetizers
Zucchini Fries
Photo courtesy of Carissa Shaw
Zucchini is one of the most versatile veggies around — perfect for spiralizing into noodles, chopping into a casserole, or even frying and dipping in your favorite sauce. Check out Carissa’s recipe for easy-to-make zucchini fries that will be your go-to side dish all summer long. Easy Peach Salsa
Photo courtesy of At Home on the Bay
Sitting on the porch with a refreshing cocktail and some chips and salsa is a summer activity loved by all. Incorporate a summery twist into your snack by using fresh peaches that will be bountiful during the late summer months. This recipe is sweet and simple! Cucumber Tomato Salad
Photo courtesy of This Ohio Life
The long hot days in summer call for a meal that is cool and refreshing, and this salad does the trick. With some chopped veggies, fresh herbs and a hint of crunchy jicama, This Ohio Life’s cucumber and tomato salad is delicious and quick to assemble. Stuffed Squash Blossoms
Photo courtesy of Alley's Recipe Book
If you haven’t cooked with squash blossoms before, now is the time to try it! These flowers come into season in early summer, and pack a punch of fresh, squashy flavor. You can use them as a garnish, or stuff them and fry them for a tasty appetizer. Alley has the perfect recipe for that. Caprese Chicken Portobello Mushrooms
Photo courtesy of Lemons for Lulu
Garden-fresh tomatoes and bountiful helpings of homemade pesto add tons of summery flavor to this dish, which can be enjoyed as an appetizer or prepared as a main meal. Mains
Southwest Skillet with Cilantro and Avocado Cream
Photo courtesy of Carissa Shaw
This one-pan dish is packed with protein and hearty vegetables, and can be ready in under 25 minutes. Plus, it’s incredibly presentable! Gather your family around the table for an outdoor meal that’s delicious, flavorful, and easy to pack into your summer schedule. Pork Chops with Blackberry Peach Sauce
Photo courtesy of Lemons for Lulu
Pork chops cooked in red wine and garlic will always be a classic, but sweetened up with summer fruits? This combination is unbeatable. Tanya created this hearty but fresh recipe to serve up on any occasion, and uses fresh blackberries and peaches to make it a truly seasonal dish. Grilled California Club Pizza
Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Joan Designs
‘Tis the season for grilling, but the fun doesn’t have to stop at burgers and hot dogs. Erin created this incredibly fresh recipe for a pizza you can make on the grill — and it tastes just like a California Club. This is the pizza of our dreams! Desserts
Easy Strawberry Shortcake
Photos courtesy of Cleverly Simple
Summer wouldn’t be complete without the occasional strawberry shortcake indulgence! This recipe from Cleverly Simple provides the perfect base for those sweet strawberries that will reach peak ripeness this season. Blueberry Crostata
Photo courtesy of House of Hawthornes
Blueberry pie is certainly a summer staple, but this crostata from House of Hawthornes is just as delicious, easier to make, and even more beautiful than the classic. Some pastry dough, fresh blueberries, lemon juice and a sprinkle of sugar make it a treat worth remembering. Ooey Gooey S’mores Bars
Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Joan Designs
S’mores don’t have to disappear when the campfire goes out. If you’re not able to make it into the woods or out to a fire pit, bring the flavor of everyone’s favorite summer treat inside with these s’mores bars from Elizabeth Joan Designs. Marshmallows? Grahamcrackers? Chocolate? Check. All that’s missing is a hungry family! High Protein Low Fat Mango Ice Cream Bars
Photo courtesy of Lydi Out Loud
For a dessert that’s a bit lighter but just as rich, try these mango ice cream bars from Lydi Out Loud. She uses fresh coconut ice cream, fresh mango, and a sprinkle of dried coconut to achieve that flavor that will make you feel like you’re on a beach vacation. Cocktails
Sparkling Blackberry Mojito
Photo courtesy of Lydi Out Loud
We didn’t think mojitos could get any more refreshing, but then Lydi proved us wrong by creating a sparkling version with blackberry Izze soda, summer berries and fresh mint leaves. We’ll be trying this one when our next happy hour comes around. Watermelon and Cucumber Splash
Photo courtesy of My Life From Home
This list wouldn’t be complete without a bit of watermelon! This cocktail from My Life From Home uses scoops of a fresh seedless melon and a cucumber to create a cocktail that is light and fresh — and perfectly summery. Honey Sweetened Margaritas
Photo courtesy of Simply Taylor
Most store-bought margarita mixes are filled to the brim with unhealthy syrups and sugars. Make your cocktail a bit healthier by sweetening it with honey instead — just as delicious and refreshing. Check out Simply Taylor’s recipe for the perfect version that you’ll be able to enjoy year-round. Bon Appétit!
What are some of your favorite summery recipes? Let us know in the comments!