Fresh, Light Recipes for Summer Meals: Three Easy Dishes

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With the heat rising and beach days ahead, this is the moment to finish strong for a sun-ready look by the water. If the goal is to refresh the usual calorie-light meals, here are three recipes that bring a tasty, new touch to the table without sacrificing on health.

Starter: mushroom and egg muffins

They’re simple, quick, and surprisingly flavorful. Muffins offer a convenient way to enjoy a light, nourishing bite while encouraging kitchen creativity. If needed, adapt the ingredients to use items you have on hand so nothing goes to waste.

  • six eggs
  • 200 grams cottage cheese
  • 200 grams mushrooms
  • half a purple onion
  • two garlic cloves
  • a pinch of salt
  • a pinch of red pepper
  • a pinch of black pepper
  • Chop the onion into very small pieces and crush the garlic cloves.
  • Wash and finely chop the mushrooms. If they’re small, slicing works well too.
  • Beat the eggs in a bowl.
  • Stir in the cottage cheese (drain any liquid), then add onion, garlic, spices and mushrooms.
  • Distribute the mixture into muffin molds for about twelve portions.
  • Bake at 180 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes.
  • When golden, remove from the oven and let cool for around 5 minutes.
  • Unmold and serve.

Main course: tomato frittata

This Italian classic is quick to make, versatile, and ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a comforting, protein-rich option that adapts to different meal plans.

  • four eggs
  • two tablespoons milk
  • two tablespoons tomato puree
  • three tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • 250 grams cherry tomatoes
  • one teaspoon olive oil
  • pepper
  • salt, sea salt if possible
  • Halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside.
  • Whisk eggs, milk, tomato puree, salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of cheese until well combined.
  • Warm the olive oil in a tall skillet or wide pan.
  • Pour in the mixture, cover, and cook over medium heat until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
  • Top with diced cherry tomatoes and the remaining cheese.
  • Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Dessert: Fruit mousse with yogurt drops

The finale is a dessert clocking in at about 44 calories per serving, fat-free and light. Feel free to customize this recipe to create new flavor combinations for endless variety.

For the mousse

  • egg white
  • a glass of blackberries, or strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry for a tangier note
  • flavored sweetener of choice

For the yogurt drops

  • plain yogurt
  • cocoa powder
  • flavored sweetener of choice
  • Start with the yogurt drops the night before, preparing ahead for a smooth finish.
  • Mix yogurt, cocoa, and the chosen sweetener; spoon into silicone molds and freeze. If decorations are preferred, spread the mixture onto a plate and freeze as a panel.
  • For the mousse, begin by combining egg white, a glass of fruit, and the sweetener to taste in a processor.
  • Blend for 4–5 minutes until the mixture triples in volume.
  • Once firm, transfer to a plate and garnish with the frozen yogurt drops.

These simple, balanced dishes make it easy to enjoy flavorful meals while keeping calories in check. The trio provides plant-forward options, lean proteins, and a refreshing end to the meal that pairs well with late-summer heat and outdoor dining.

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