As the school year winds down and anticipation for summer reaches unknown heights, the ever-present topic of food remains on my mind: What better way to welcome the summer season than to discover some new recipes? 

Whether you’re in search of a simple fruit salad or a classic savory dish, these three recipes welcome the heat with a refreshing and flavorful kick, pairing together to make a delicious summer meal, verified by food enthusiast, Cecelia Grant. 

Watermelon Corn Salad 

The first recipe I wanted to note is relatively simple and has proven to be a healthy, versatile addition to any summer meal. The mix of fresh, juicy watermelon and sweet summer corn provides an appetizing and colorful salad that can be used in any and every meal. From my experience, ‘Watermelon Corn Salad’ is an easy side dish for often overpowering dishes, acting equally healthy and delicious! One perk of this recipe is that it can be enhanced in several ways, with a simple sprinkle of feta, basil, and lime.  

Smoky, Summer Ribs 

Known as the pinnacle of iconic American barbecue, a classic but unforgettable recipe has got to be ‘Smoky Summer Ribs.’ While a bit more complex than salad, these ribs aren’t overly difficult to make and well worth the energy: after seasoning with the dry rub recipe detailed below, throw them on the grill and get excited for a fantastic, mouthwatering meal. Combining salty, smoky, savory, and spicy flavors, you just can’t go wrong with ribs. 

Mint Lemonade 

To accompany such a high amount of flavor, or just to cool down as you lie around by the pool, what better to drink than a refreshing glass of homemade mint lemonade? Mint lemonade acts as a staple summer drink – a cool, citrusy escape from the summer heat alongside the crisp, lingering flavor that the mint adds. 

As we get closer and closer to the start of summer, I hope the promise of the refreshing, delectable flavors of these recipes aids you in a summer of rest and relaxation.•