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Midwestern Summer Recipes
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Summer is a time for enjoying the warm weather and delicious food with family and friends. And in the heartland of America, nothing says summer like Midwestern cuisine. The region is known for its agricultural abundance and homegrown produce, which translates into a unique and flavorful cuisine that's perfect for warm-weather gatherings. From classic corn on the cob and barbecue ribs to unique sweet corn salad and blueberry buckle, the Midwestern summer recipes are sure to delight your taste buds. In this comprehensive guide, we've rounded up some of the most popular and mouth-watering Midwestern summer recipes that you can add to your collection. So let's dive in and start cooking up a storm this summer!
Midwestern Summer Recipes: Enjoy the Season's Bounty with These Delicious Dishes
The Midwestern region of the United States is known for its agricultural abundance, which often translates into delicious, homegrown cuisine. With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to enjoy some of the region's most popular dishes. From classic barbecued ribs to refreshing fruit salads, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best Midwestern summer recipes:
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a staple of Midwestern summer cuisine. Simply grill or boil the corn, then serve with butter, salt, and pepper. For a twist, try brushing the corn with a mixture of melted butter and your favorite herbs before grilling.
Barbecue Ribs
Midwesterners love their barbecue, and nothing says summer like a plate of ribs. You can marinate the ribs in your favorite barbecue sauce and grill them until they're tender and falling off the bone. For a more unique flavor, try using a dry rub or a spicy marinade.
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a classic Midwestern dish that's perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings. You can season the chicken with your favorite spices and coat it in a crispy breading before frying. Serve with a side of homemade coleslaw or potato salad for the ultimate summer meal.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a quintessential Midwestern side dish. Mix boiled potatoes with mayo, mustard, pickles, celery, and onions for a refreshing summer salad. For a more colorful salad, try using a mix of red and yellow potatoes.
Jell-O Salad
Another classic Midwestern side dish, Jell-O salad is made by mixing Jell-O with fruit, cottage cheese, and whipped cream. It's a sweet and refreshing addition to any summer meal. For a more grown-up version, try using champagne instead of water when making the Jell-O.
Strawberry Shortcake
Midwestern summers are known for their juicy, ripe strawberries. Use them to make a classic strawberry shortcake, with layers of sponge cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. For a healthier twist, try using angel food cake instead of sponge cake.
Rhubarb Pie
Rhubarb is another popular Midwestern fruit, and it's often used to make delicious pies. Mix the rhubarb with sugar, flour, and a pinch of cinnamon before baking it in a flaky crust. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate summer dessert.
Grilled Sweet Corn Salad
This salad is a great way to use up leftover grilled corn. Mix the corn with cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro for a flavorful and healthy summer salad. For a more filling salad, add some black beans or grilled chicken.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon is a refreshing summer fruit, and it pairs perfectly with salty feta cheese. Mix diced watermelon with crumbled feta, chopped mint, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy salad.
Bratwurst with Sauerkraut
Bratwurst is a classic Midwestern sausage, and it's perfect for grilling. Serve on a bun with spicy brown mustard and sauerkraut for a hearty summer meal.
Cherry Clafoutis
Cherry clafoutis is a classic French dessert that's popular in the Midwest. The dish features fresh cherries baked in a custard-like batter, and it's perfect for showcasing the region's summer fruit. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Zucchini Bread
Zucchini is a versatile summer vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, including sweet bread. Mix grated zucchini with sugar, flour, eggs, and spices to create a delicious bread that's perfect for breakfast or as a snack. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor.
Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream
Grilled peaches are a delicious and healthy summer dessert. Cut fresh peaches in half, brush with a mixture of honey and butter, and grill until caramelized. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet and refreshing treat.
Fried Cheese Curds
Cheese curds are a popular snack in the Midwest, and they're often served fried. Dip the cheese curds in a batter made of flour, beer, and spices, then fry until crispy. Serve with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Blueberry Pancakes
Blueberries are another popular summer fruit in the Midwest, and they're perfect for making pancakes. Mix fresh blueberries with pancake batter and cook until fluffy and golden brown. Serve with butter and syrup for a classic breakfast dish.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a lean and flavorful cut of meat that's perfect for grilling. Marinate the pork in your favorite sauce or spices, then grill until cooked through. Serve with grilled veggies or a side salad for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Tomato Salad
Tomatoes are in season during the summer months, and they make a delicious and refreshing salad. Slice ripe tomatoes and mix with fresh herbs, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar for a simple yet tasty salad. You can also add mozzarella cheese or avocado for added flavor.
Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that's popular in the Midwest as well. Mix fresh peaches with sugar, flour, and cinnamon, then bake in a flaky crust until golden brown. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting and sweet treat.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp skewers are a quick and easy summer meal that's perfect for the grill. Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grill until cooked through. Serve with a side of rice or a salad for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Green tomatoes are a unique summer ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Coat sliced green tomatoes in a mixture of cornmeal and spices, then fry until crispy. Serve with a side of ranch dressing for a delicious and savory snack.
Final Thoughts
These Midwestern summer recipes are sure to please your taste buds and satisfy your hunger during the sunny months. Whether you're grilling, baking, or frying, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, get out there and savor the flavors of the Midwest this summer!
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Midwestern Summer Recipes
Discover the best Midwestern summer recipes with our comprehensive guide! From classic corn on the cob and barbecue ribs to unique sweet corn salad and blueberry buckle, we've got all your favorite homegrown dishes covered. Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue or a picnic at the park, these mouth-watering recipes are sure to impress. Check out our list and start cooking up a storm this summer!
1
Buttermilk Pancakes
Buttermilk Pancakes are fluffy, classic pancakes perfect for any breakfast or brunch. Don't have buttermilk on hand? We include a couple of workarounds in case you don't have regular milk too!
2
Tomato Salad
Tomato Salad has fresh, ripe, organic Heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil and marinated in a homemade Balsamic vinaigrette dressing. This seasonal salad truly offers wonderful Summer flavors!
3
Peach Cobbler Recipe
This Peach Cobbler Recipe has fresh, ripe peaches with a crisp, biscuit on top. It’s wonderful on it’s own or served with vanilla ice cream!
4
Grilled Peaches
This Grilled Peaches recipe is an easy-to-make dessert recipe that is perfect for the peach season when juicy, ripe peaches are plentiful. We use white peaches for this recipe but you can use yellow peaches as well. You can serve the grilled peaches plain or with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or regular cream. (makes 8 servings)
7
Watermelon Lime Mint Salad
This Watermelon Lime Mint Salad recipe is light, hydrating, refreshing, and the perfect fruit salad for the Spring and Summer months. With zesty lime and refreshing mint, this cooling salad is sure to please on those hot days.
8
Red Potato Salad with Dill
Red Potato Salad with Dill has crisp celery, onion, Dijon mustard, and eggs, giving it a satisfying crunch and flavor. This classic and cool Summer salad feeds a crowd, making it perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a recipe to last during the week.
9
Strawberry Mint Shortcake with Ladyfingers
Strawberry Mint Shortcake with Ladyfingers is a no bake, easy to assemble strawberry shortcake recipe with macerated fresh mint and strawberries, homemade vanilla whipped cream and ladyfinger sponge cakes.
10
Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are savory, juicy, and tender on the inside and crispy-crunchy on the outside. They are made with buttermilk, Argo® Corn Starch, some all-purpose flour, and seasoned with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, black pepper, kosher salt onion powder, and garlic powder then deep fried in a vegetable-based oil. Try these delicious chicken tenders out for your family!
11
Boiled Butter Corn
Boiled Butter Corn is sweet, savory and a true sign of Summer! Enjoy this classic way to enjoy corn at any Summer gathering. Cooks in 5 minutes!
12
Fried Green Tomatoes
These Fried Green Tomatoes have a crunchy, panko bread crumb coating with tuxedo sesame seeds.
13
Jello Poke Cake
Jello Poke Cake has a white box cake infused with berry (in this case, raspberry) jello, finished with homemade vanilla buttercream frosting, and topped with blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries.
- First Published: 5/18/2023
- Updated & republished: 8/5/2024
Owner at Life's Little Sweets
Sara is an architectural designer turned work-at-home Mom. She lives in New Jersey by way of New England and New York, with her husband and 3 kids under 8. She loves design, being creative, and spending time with family and friends. She loves checking out local businesses and eats and being apart of the local farm to table community.
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