If there’s one thing I’ve learned this summer, it’s that America loves bacon. There has been bacon everywhere-in sandwiches, on salads, in burgers, and heaped at breakfast bars. This recipe for bacon fried rice sounds delicious, even though after a month and a half of bacon everywhere, I’m getting a little tired of it.

Bacon Fried Rice

Photo copyright joyosity

I love fajitas, mostly because they are fast, easy, keep the kitchen cool, and people can fill their own tortillas however they like. The recipe from Windset Farms reminds me of the yummy fajitas we had in San Diego-full of fresh, delicious produce and spicy beef. Windset Farms produces some beautiful produce that makes dinner prep even easier!

Beef Fajitas

Photo copyright Windset Farms

Eighteen years ago John and I honeymooned in Cairns, Australia and discovered the joys of peel and eat shrimp in a small Oceanside restaurant. Once Upon a Chef takes the idea one step further, by adding a home made cocktail sauce. Served with salad and crusty bread, you can make a wonderful light meal.

Peel and Eat Shrimp with Homemade Cocktail Sauce

photo copyright AlishaV

Salmon lends itself to summer cooking well as it is a lighter meal and cooks quickly so you aren’t heating up your kitchen when the sun is sweltering outside. This glaze by Victory or Death in the Kitchen sounds delectable. I would invest in a really good quality balsamic vinegar to get the most wonderful flavour you can. Served with some roasted fingerling potatoes and grilled vegetables, you’d have a company worthy meal.

Grilled Salmon with Balsamic Rosemary Glaze

Photo copyright Victory or Death in the Kitchen

When I want something quick and painless, stir fries are my go to. Easy to make as well as change to suit your family, they make a good summer meal in a hurry. This one from Jamie Oliver gives you all the flavour of take out Chinese food without the large portions, calories, or expense!

Sizzling Beef with Scallions and Black Bean sauce