The 9 Best Summer Appetizers For Cookouts, Picnics

Plum Salad With Black Pepper and Parmesan

A savory fruit salad perfect for dinner. Juicy plums are enhanced with a sprinkle of black pepper and shaved Parmesan, creating a unique and delicious combination.

Summer Corn Rice

Sushi rice cooked with kombu, fresh corn, and soy sauce for a flavorful summer dish. The combination of sweet corn and savory soy sauce makes it a standout side.

Cheesy Charred Green Beans

Creamy-charred paneer paired with grilled green beans for a delightful vegetarian side. The paneer adds a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the smokiness of the beans.

Vietnamese Tomato Salad

Fresh tomatoes topped with an acidic, sweet, and herbaceous dressing. The vibrant flavors make this salad a refreshing addition to any meal.

Saucy Grilled Summer Squash With Chickpeas

Use a skillet to blister tomatoes while charring larger veggies on the grill. This method retains the juicy flavors of the tomatoes and adds a smoky depth to the squash and chickpeas.

Plum Salad With Black Pepper and Parmesan

Juicy melon topped with a salty-sweet, crunchy bacon and cashew crumble. This easy appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings.

Charred Eggplant With Spicy Tomato Sauce and Peanuts

Silky grilled eggplant paired with a spicy charred tomato sauce inspired by Thai nam prik, and topped with crunchy peanuts for added texture.

Cucumber, Tomato, and Green Bean Salad

A Thai-inspired salad with sour, salty, and sweet notes, featuring fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. This peak-summer dish is a refreshing twist on green papaya salad.

Caramelized Zucchini Flatbread

A delicious solution to summer squash fatigue. Caramelized zucchini atop a crispy flatbread provides a sweet and savory treat that's perfect for any summer meal.