August is peak season for some of the best fruits and vegetables of the year. With hot days still lingering and back-to-school season around the corner, it's the perfect time to lean into recipes that are light, fresh, and packed with flavor — without heating up the kitchen. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or just trying to eat a little cleaner this month, here are some of our favorite easy recipes using August’s best produce.
1. Cucumber & Watermelon Salad with Feta
Ingredients: Cucumber (sliced thin)
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Watermelon (cubed)
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Feta cheese (crumbled)
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Fresh mint
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Olive oil, lime juice, salt & pepper
Why it works: This combo is ultra-hydrating and just the right balance of sweet and salty. Add a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a little heat.
2. Grilled Peach Caprese
Ingredients:
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Ripe peaches (halved and lightly grilled)
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Fresh mozzarella
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Basil
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Balsamic glaze
Why it works: Swap tomatoes for peaches in this summer twist on a classic caprese. It’s gorgeous on a platter and easy to prep ahead.
3. Sweet Corn & Avocado Salsa
Ingredients:
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Fresh corn (grilled or boiled, then cut from the cob)
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Avocado
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Red onion
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Cilantro
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Lime juice
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Jalapeño (optional)
Why it works: Serve it with tortilla chips, on grilled chicken, or in lettuce wraps. It’s fresh, filling, and totally summer-approved.
4. Chilled Tomato Gazpacho
Ingredients:
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Ripe tomatoes
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Cucumber
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Bell pepper
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Garlic
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Olive oil
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Red wine vinegar
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Salt & pepper
Why it works: No cooking required — just blend and chill. It’s basically a garden in a bowl and perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.
5. No-Bake Berry Yogurt Parfaits
Ingredients:
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Seasonal berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)
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Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt
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Honey or maple syrup
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Granola
Why it works: A super simple breakfast or dessert that’s naturally sweet and cooling—perfect for August mornings or evenings.
Tip: What’s In Season in August?
Look for these at your local farmers market:
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Tomatoes
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Corn
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Cucumbers
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Peppers
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Zucchini
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Peaches
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Berries
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Melons
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Basil
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Eggplant
These recipes are all about letting seasonal produce do the heavy lifting. Next time you’re at the market or unpacking your CSA box, think about what you can whip up that’s fresh, flavorful, and requires little to no stove time. Your kitchen (and your guests!) will thank you.
