Lunch

Switch up this endlessly riffable salad to suit your preferences, but try to always include a mix of cooked and raw vegetables for the best textures.

Spoiler alert: We broke with tradition. Instead of rubbing toast with cut tomatoes, we grated the tomatoes to make a raw sauce that the bread can really absorb.

This picnic-ready sandwich is basically a salad between two slices of bread. With an herby yogurt smear, tons of feel-good sprouts, and buttery avocado, it has major California vibes.

This savory-sweet dish is decorated with soft cheese and a hint of garlic. Served over a crispy baguette, it’s the perfect summer lunch, midday snack, or party appetizer.

Tossing the tomatoes with lemon juice and fresh herbs intensifies their flavor.

Double-down on the dairy by tossing torn pieces of mozzarella in a bowl with sour cream, lemon juice, and salt to make an extra-rich, luscious topper for this greens-and-grains salad.

Our idea of summer salad means minimal cooking, lots of fresh greens, and enough protein to feel filling.

Crispy tostadas are piled with a refreshing crab salad, seasoned with Old Bay, fresh mint, jalapeño, and lime.

Served on a bun or pita, this sweet potato and grilled cheese burger will lighten up your summer barbecue.

A healthy take on a classic diner burger

Deeply charred mustardy chicken thighs are paired with a crunchy and refreshing fennel-basil slaw for the ultimate summer chicken sandwich.

Turn the iconic cacio e pepe pasta into something a little more kid-friendly by tossing in fresh corn to add a pop of sweetness to every cheesy, peppery bite.

Low investment and high reward, let this not-so-traditional larb become your next late-night go-to meal.

For the satisfaction of fried chicken without the fuss, coat boneless breasts in toasted panko, then bake them. They’re crunchier than any baked chicken you’ve ever had—and they use fewer than 10 ingredients.

Cooking chicken thighs skin-side down allows the skin to get extra crispy. But why stop the crunch factor there? Pair the chicken with fresh, crunchy summer vegetables.