What does al fresco dining mean? In Italian, it means in the cool. So, it’s a fancy way of saying eat outside. Whether you’re having a casual lunch or a sunset dinner on the patio, there’s something magical about enjoying a meal in the open air. Filled with fresh, seasonal ingredients, these 18 al fresco dining ideas are summer on a plate. Think zucchini tomato pie, orzo salad, balsamic grilled chicken, watermelon Caprese salad, creamy lime bars, and more! Savor the warmer weather and longer days and take a meal outside this week.
Marinated Flank Steak
“This easy recipe has been one of my family’s favorites for over 25 years. It is often requested as one of those celebration meals.” – Jane
Ciao Bella Balsamic Grilled Chicken
“Something a little different than BBQ sauce for your chicken. I came up with this recipe because I wanted something I could marinate the day before or the morning of the day I would be grilling. All the work is done ahead of time. All that’s left is the grilling.” – Anna
Orzo Salad
“This is a favorite salad I make often. It’s so versatile, you can really make it your own easily! Make sure to taste the dressing as you are making it to adjust to your liking.” – Lindsey
Virgin Coco Mojito
“A non-alcoholic version of a coconut mojito. This uses Torani (or another brand) coconut flavor coffee syrup. I used sugar-free, but regular will work.” – Mikekey
Strawberry Shortcake-Cake
“My best friend loves strawberry shortcake. I love cake and love to make special cakes. I developed this combination just for her, and now everyone at work loves it, and I’ve even been hired to make it for a few people over the years.” – Angelina
Shrimp Cakes
“My family and friends love it and when we have a fish fry and I make some shrimp, crab, and lobster cakes. It is so easy to fix it. They are so delicious and tasty.” – Lisa
Watermelon Caprese Salad
“Watermelon Caprese Salad combines sweet watermelon with tangy balsamic. The mozzarella and salt add a nice contrast to the fresh basil” – Debbie
Creamy Lime Bars
“These creamy lime bars are a refreshing dessert anytime!” – Ann
Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad
“One of my favorite salads for entertaining with family and friends at the lake. Even though it’s healthy, everyone loves it! Serve it tossed in a bowl or layered on a platter. Choice of two dressings will spice it up to your liking!” – Sharyn
Marinated Grilled Pork Tenderloin
“I wow people all the time with this pork tenderloin. People come back, not for seconds, but for thirds and fourths. It is just so savory, tender, and juicy. I frequently grill these loins for large parties, such as my mom’s retirement party or large family gatherings.” – Gina
Sour Cream & Dill Cucumbers
“I grew up with your everyday sour cream, dill, and cucumber salad on our Polish table. But as I learned to cook, I took this common dish and spiced it up.” – Staci
Grilled Salmon, The House Special
“This recipe has long been a family fave. Very easy, with simple ingredients that you can almost always find in the house. Delicious served with my Chilled Asian Cucumber Salad.” – Greg
Balsamic Strawberries w/ Honey Vanilla Ricotta
“This is a fast, light, and easy dessert that is great for entertaining.” – Thomas
Summer Fruit Salad With Mint & Limoncello
“This is my all-time favorite fruit salad. The fresh mint and the Limoncello add a wonderful addition to your summer fruits. I promise you will love it. I keep the Limoncello in my freezer. It is always nice and cold. Also good as an evening sipper on a hot summer day.” – Nadine
Mediterranean Salad
“I make this often. It is so refreshing and full of flavor. Friends request this.” – Jenny
Zucchini Tomato Pie
“The pairing of tomatoes and zucchini is delicious in so many dishes, and this pie approach, which I modified from a Bisquick recipe site, is one more way to bring life to them when they’re out of season. – Jenay
Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers Recipe
“Spicy grilled jerk marinated shrimp and sweet and juicy pineapple skewers!” – Kevin