The dog days of summer are here (officially July 3 – Aug. 11 according to the Farmer’s Almanac) and although we should be excited about the plethora of fresh produce to cook with, sometimes it can seem like a chore. We’ve compiled a list of summer recipes to get your creative juices flowing. Enjoy!

Stuffed Peppers – This recipe calls for stuffing peppers with beans and rice but don’t be scared to mix it up. Try quinoa and sweet potatoes, or couscous and sausage. 

Peach Salsa – This recipe can be used with just about any fruit, try mango or pineapple. 

Caprese Salad – This is extra beautiful when made with different colored tomatoes. Add in Cucumber for a nice crunch. 

Violet Lemon Pound Cake – Violets are a pretty touch, but aren’t absolutely necessary for this recipe. Substitute blueberries or blackberries for alternative cakes. 

Crunchy Jicama Slaw – Great for burgers, sandwiches or as a salad topper. 

Kale and Brussel Sprout Salad – Healthy and delicious. 

Summer Squash and Basil Pasta – Summer squash is one of the easiest things to grow in a home garden. That means a lot of us end up with a lot of squash. This pasta recipe is a tasty way to use it all up. 

Mango Sorbet – Extra easy recipe for the extra hot days. 

Watermelon Feta Salad – For finishing those giant watermelons. 

Creamy Cucumber Salad – Cold, crisp and refreshing. 

Peanut Butter Pie – For all the celebrations. 

Violet Gimlet – Make it a cocktail, or a mocktail. 

Chickpea Salad – Try this recipe using chicken instead of chickpeas, both make the perfect sandwich for a summer afternoon.