Is it my imagination, or does autumn merchandise come earlier each year? As in…Halloween décor is everywhere right now?
Costco, I’m looking at you.
And Pottery Barn? My dearest. Why are you selling pumpkins, brown pillows, and witches already?
Am I mistaken, or did the Fourth of July just happen? It’s still blazing hot outside!
I knew you’d agree with me.
So if you’re not quite ready for sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and cozy blankets, join me for a roundup of a few of my favorite summer recipes and finds that help us stay cool while celebrating the best of the season.
🍧 Homemade Popsicles (and a Trader Joe’s Favorite)
This Strawberry Lemonade Popsicle recipe is an oldie but a goodie. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice, juicy strawberries, and a simple syrup come together to make a frozen treat that’s just as popular with adults as it is with kids.
But let’s be honest—not every hot summer day leaves us feeling ambitious enough to make popsicles from scratch.
That’s why I was thrilled to discover Trader Joe’s Organic Freezer Pops. They’re made with 100% juice, and unlike so many freezer pops, they don’t have that artificial flavor. They’re fruity, refreshing, and exactly what I reach for after an Arizona afternoon outside.
So if homemade isn’t happening today, keep a package of these tucked away in your freezer…
…for emergency purposes only.
You know—the kind of emergency where it’s 110° outside.
🍍 Pineapple Ginger Lemon Juice
I originally made this recipe because it was advertised as a detox drink. I have absolutely no idea what it detoxed, if anything.
What I do know is that it’s refreshing, naturally sweet, and a wonderful way to use pineapple peels that would normally end up in the trash.
The next time you’re cutting up a fresh pineapple, don’t throw away the skin. Turn it into this delicious summer drink instead.
🌮 Easy Low Carb Breakfast Burritos
I shared these Easy Low Carb Breakfast Burritos earlier this year, and they’ve become one of our regular breakfasts.
The ingredients are pantry and refrigerator staples in our house, so we can throw them together almost anytime. They’re simple, satisfying, create very little kitchen mess (always a bonus), and still feel like a weekend treat.
🥗 Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Chicken Bowl
Now for one of my all-time favorite summer meals…or honestly, one of my favorite meals any time of year.
Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend is one of those ingredients that makes almost everything better. In this recipe, I paired it with grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal that’s colorful, filling, and incredibly easy to make.
(My affection for alliteration is almost as strong as my affection for Trader Joe’s.)
I’m hoping to experiment with a few more Harvest Blend combinations before summer comes to an end.
Until We’re Ready for Fall…
There will be plenty of time for pumpkin bread, apple cider, and cozy soups.
For now, I’m soaking up every last bit of summer—even if the stores seem determined to convince me it’s October already.
Thanks for spending part of your Tuesday with me. I hope these summer favorites give you a little inspiration the next time you’re looking for something simple, refreshing, and delicious.
As always, may God bless you and yours.