Bright & Bold Red Summer Recipes

Last Updated June 29, 2022

Get bold this summer with a pop of color!

There are so many bright and juicy fruits and vegetables are on the table this season and to celebrate we're putting together a collection of drink, side, and dessert recipes featuring what's red: peppers, watermelon, tomatoes, raspberries—you name it!

It's time to add a little “red” to the red, white and blue celebrations this July (with a little bit of bold orange and pink thrown in to keep the party going!)

One-Skillet Poblano and Red Pepper Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a one-skillet North African dish that can be served for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It consists of eggs, peppers and tomatoes, typically served with warm pita or na’an bread. This one...

Fermented Pico de Gallo

The phrase pico de gallo translates to “rooster’s beak” and is believed to get its name from the fact that it was originally enjoyed as a finger food, picked up by two fingers pinched together...

Quick Pickled Red Onions

This bright, tangy condiment with fresh citrus juice takes just a few minutes to prepare, and adds a delicious zing to tacos, sandwiches or fresh green salads.

Just Add Salt

Sourdough Tomato Gazpacho

For a California twist, blend some tangy local sourdough bread into your gazpacho and garnish it with sourdough croutons, toasted in olive oil.

Fresh Berry Trio with Lime Whipped Cream

U-pick em, you buy ‘em, you grow ‘em ... they are all berry, berry delicious and in season! Top with a simple lime whipped cream.

Warm Apricot and Cherry Crisp : from book Wine Country Table

How clever of nature to ripen apricots and cherries at the same time; the two fruits are so compatible. Toss them with a little sugar and tapioca to thicken their juices, add a crunchy oat and walnut...

Skinny Strawberry Watermelon Mojito

Bottled Raspberry Basil Gin Cocktail

Dubbed the "Overachiever", this cocktail uses a raspberry-basil shrub: a tangy mixture of fresh fruit, sugar, herbs and vinegar. The shrub will have to be made a couple days in advance if you are...

Raspberry Peach Smoothie

What’s more summery than berries and stone fruit? This tangy-sweet magenta smoothie made with some of the Bay Area’s favorite summer delights will keep you cool all season long.

Watermelon Soda and Shandies

Reduce watermelon juice to concentrate its sweet flavor, then mix it with honey for an unusual summer soda syrup. Kids can enjoy it as a soda mixed with seltzer water, while adults can enjoy the soda...