28+ Delicious Summer Honey Recipes You Need to Try

Summer is the season of fresh flavors, bright fruits, and outdoor dining, making it the perfect time to embrace the natural sweetness of honey in your cooking.

Whether you’re enjoying a lazy afternoon on the porch, hosting a barbecue, or preparing a light and refreshing meal, honey can elevate your dishes, adding a touch of sweetness and a burst of flavor.

From tangy marinades and glazes to cool, refreshing beverages and indulgent desserts, honey is the versatile ingredient you can incorporate into a variety of summer recipes.

In this blog, we’re sharing over 28+ summer honey recipes that will bring a deliciously sweet twist to your summer dishes.

Whether you’re looking for a savory glaze for your grilled vegetables, a vibrant fruit salad, or a sweet treat to cool off, these recipes are sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the world of summer honey goodness, and make your summer meals a little sweeter!

28+ Delicious Summer Honey Recipes You Need to Try

From the sweetness of a honey-lavender lemonade to the savory depth of a honey-ginger BBQ sauce, these 28+ summer honey recipes showcase just how versatile this natural sweetener can be.

Honey adds not only a touch of sweetness but also a layer of complexity that makes everything from salads to grilled meats come alive with flavor.

Whether you’re preparing for a family BBQ, a summer picnic, or just looking for ways to enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables, these recipes are a perfect way to enjoy the best of summer.

So, get your honey jar ready and start experimenting with these delicious recipes to make your summer even sweeter!

Honey-Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers

Infused with citrusy brightness and a touch of sweetness, these honey-lime grilled chicken skewers are a must-have for summer barbecues.

The honey caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a slightly charred, sticky glaze that balances perfectly with the tang of fresh lime and subtle heat from chili flakes.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely charred.
5. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro before serving.

Perfect for backyard parties or casual family dinners, these skewers bring a tropical flair to the table.

The honey’s natural sugars caramelize on the grill, locking in moisture and flavor, while the lime adds an uplifting zing. Serve with a side of grilled veggies or atop a fresh summer salad for a complete meal.

Honey Peach Caprese Salad

This sweet and savory twist on the classic Caprese is a celebration of summer’s ripest produce.

Juicy peaches, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil are elevated by a drizzle of honey-balsamic reduction, creating a vibrant, fresh dish that works beautifully as an appetizer or side.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
• 1 large ball of fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey and balsamic vinegar. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. On a platter, alternate layers of peach slices, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and the cooled honey-balsamic reduction.
4. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Refreshing, colorful, and packed with flavor, this salad makes an elegant statement with minimal effort.

The honey-balsamic drizzle ties everything together with its sweet acidity, enhancing the natural juiciness of the peaches and the richness of the mozzarella. It’s a beautiful choice for a picnic, brunch, or light summer dinner.

Honey-Lavender Lemonade

Elevate your summer sipping with this floral and citrusy honey-lavender lemonade.

It’s a sophisticated upgrade to the classic drink, offering a calming herbal note from lavender and a gentle sweetness from honey—no refined sugar needed.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tbsp dried culinary lavender
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
• 4 cups cold water
• Ice and lemon slices, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water, honey, and lavender. Heat gently until honey is dissolved. Remove from heat and let steep for 10–15 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture to remove lavender buds.
3. In a pitcher, combine the honey-lavender syrup with lemon juice and remaining 3 cups of cold water.
4. Stir well and chill until ready to serve. Pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices or lavender sprigs.

This honey-lavender lemonade is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and floral—ideal for garden parties or relaxing afternoons on the porch.

Honey pairs seamlessly with lavender, giving the drink a soft, golden sweetness that complements the bold citrus flavor. It’s both refreshing and refined, a drink that tastes like sunshine in a glass.

Honey-Mustard Grilled Salmon

This honey-mustard grilled salmon combines the savory richness of salmon with the sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard.

The marinade infuses the fish with a delightful balance of flavors, while grilling gives the salmon a perfect crispy exterior, locking in all the juicy tenderness inside.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush the salmon fillets with the honey-mustard mixture and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-6 minutes per side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve.

The honey-mustard glaze creates a crispy caramelized crust on the salmon, while the mustard’s tang and honey’s sweetness provide a harmonious flavor.

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light quinoa salad. It’s a simple yet sophisticated option for a summer dinner.

Honey-Infused Watermelon Salad

This refreshing salad brings together juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and a drizzle of honey to create a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.

The addition of fresh mint adds a touch of coolness, making this dish perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and chopped mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Drizzle the honey-lime dressing over the watermelon mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve chilled.

This honey-infused watermelon salad is the epitome of summer in a bowl.

The natural sweetness of the watermelon is enhanced by the honey, while the feta adds a rich, salty contrast. The fresh mint and lime juice bring a zesty brightness to each bite. It’s an ideal dish for picnics, barbecues, or as a side to grilled meats.

Honey-Glazed Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches are a summer favorite, and this honey-glazed version takes them to the next level.

The honey enhances the peaches’ natural sweetness while the grill imparts a delicious smoky flavor. Served with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, this dessert is a perfect end to any summer meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the grill grates with a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, melted butter, and cinnamon.
3. Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with the honey-butter mixture.
4. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes, until grill marks appear.
5. Flip the peaches and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
6. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

These honey-glazed grilled peaches are a showstopper dessert that brings the best of summer fruits to the forefront.

The natural sugars in the peaches caramelize on the grill, creating a tender and sweet treat, while the cinnamon and honey enhance the flavor profile. Whether served as a light dessert or a sweet snack, it’s an unforgettable way to enjoy peaches.

Honey-Vanilla Panna Cotta

This creamy and silky panna cotta is a light, refreshing dessert for hot summer nights. Infused with honey and vanilla, it delivers a perfectly balanced sweetness that complements its rich texture.

Topped with fresh berries, it’s a beautiful and indulgent end to any summer meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 packet (2.5 tsp) unflavored gelatin
• 3 tbsp cold water
• Fresh berries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and the honey is dissolved, but do not let it boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the bloomed gelatin to the cream mixture and whisk until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into small cups or ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
6. Serve topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.

This honey-vanilla panna cotta offers a sweet, smooth, and velvety dessert experience.

The honey perfectly balances the richness of the cream, and the vanilla adds depth. Topped with berries, it’s a beautiful, light treat for a summer evening gathering.

Honey Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes

These honey cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes are an easy and flavorful side dish perfect for summer dinners.

The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the cinnamon brings warmth to the sweet potatoes, creating a delicious combination of savory and sweet.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

This dish is the perfect mix of savory and sweet, with the honey and cinnamon enhancing the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes.

The result is a caramelized exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. It makes for a great side dish for grilled meats, or even as a stand-alone dish for a lighter meal.

Honey-Mango Sorbet

This honey-mango sorbet is a refreshing, naturally sweet dessert perfect for those hot summer days.

Made with just a few ingredients, it highlights the tropical flavor of ripe mangoes and the smooth sweetness of honey, creating a cooling and guilt-free treat.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the mangoes, honey, lime juice, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or ice cream maker.
   • If using an ice cream maker: Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then freeze for 2 hours to firm up.
   • If not using an ice cream maker: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the mixture and break up the ice crystals, until the sorbet reaches a smooth, fluffy consistency (this should take about 3-4 hours).
3. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to enjoy.

This honey-mango sorbet is the epitome of a tropical escape, with the natural sweetness of honey and the bright flavor of mango shining through.

It’s the perfect cool treat for hot summer days, and the lime juice adds a zesty finish that brightens the entire dish. Serve it as a light dessert or a refreshing snack.

Honey-Pineapple Salsa

This sweet and tangy honey-pineapple salsa is a vibrant addition to any summer gathering.

With fresh pineapple, a hint of honey, and a burst of lime and cilantro, this salsa brings a tropical flair to grilled fish, tacos, or even as a snack with tortilla chips.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1-2 tbsp honey (to taste)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
2. Drizzle with honey and lime juice, then toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the salsa sit for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

This honey-pineapple salsa is a perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and spice.

The honey amplifies the tropical flavors of the pineapple, while the cilantro and lime provide a refreshing contrast. It’s perfect for serving with grilled chicken, shrimp, or as a topping for tacos.

Honey-Glazed Carrot Fries

These honey-glazed carrot fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, offering a sweet and savory flavor profile.

Roasted to perfection, these carrot fries are enhanced with a honey glaze and a hint of thyme, making them a delicious side dish or snack for summer meals.

Ingredients:

• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into fries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrot fries with olive oil, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the carrots are golden and tender.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.

These honey-glazed carrot fries have a natural sweetness from the honey and the carrots, with the thyme adding an earthy depth.

The perfect crispy outside and tender inside make these fries a delightful addition to any summer dinner or picnic. They’re a wonderful way to enjoy your vegetables with a touch of sweetness.

Honey-Chili Lime Shrimp Skewers

These honey-chili lime shrimp skewers are full of bold flavors, combining the sweetness of honey, the heat of chili, and the tang of lime.

Grilled to perfection, they’re perfect for a summer BBQ or as an appetizer at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, chili powder, lime juice, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to an hour for more flavor).
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grill grates.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.
5. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
6. Serve with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if desired.

These honey-chili lime shrimp skewers have the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.

The honey gives the shrimp a delicious glaze, while the chili powder and lime bring a punch of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a standout appetizer at your next BBQ.

Honey-Lemon Chicken Salad

This honey-lemon chicken salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for a healthy summer lunch or picnic.

The honey-lemon dressing adds a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making the salad incredibly flavorful while keeping things light and bright.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chicken.
3. Drizzle the honey-lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with feta cheese (if using) and toasted almonds or walnuts.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

This honey-lemon chicken salad is perfect for a light, refreshing meal.

The honey brings a natural sweetness that complements the tanginess of the lemon and the freshness of the vegetables. It’s a versatile salad, ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Honey-Coconut Popsicles

These honey-coconut popsicles are a sweet, tropical treat for hot summer days.

Made with creamy coconut milk and a touch of honey, they’re naturally sweetened and full of flavor, offering a perfect way to cool off during the warmer months.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, filling each mold almost to the top.
3. If using shredded coconut, sprinkle a small amount into each mold before freezing.
4. Insert sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
5. To release the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds.

These honey-coconut popsicles are creamy, smooth, and full of tropical flavor.

The honey adds a gentle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the richness of the coconut milk. These popsicles are a great way to enjoy a healthy, homemade frozen treat on a hot day.

Honey-Mint Iced Tea

A refreshing twist on classic iced tea, this honey-mint iced tea is infused with fresh mint and naturally sweetened with honey.

It’s the perfect beverage for a summer afternoon, offering a cooling effect while also being a little more sophisticated than regular iced tea.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water
• 4 black tea bags (or green tea, if preferred)
• 1/4 cup honey (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• Ice
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on your preferred strength.
2. Remove the tea bags and stir in the honey while the tea is still warm, ensuring it dissolves completely.
3. Add the fresh mint leaves to the warm tea and let it steep for 10-15 minutes for the mint to infuse.
4. Strain out the mint leaves and refrigerate the tea until chilled.
5. Serve the chilled tea over ice and garnish with lemon slices, if desired.

This honey-mint iced tea is a perfect summer drink.

The honey’s natural sweetness balances the slight bitterness of the tea, while the fresh mint adds a refreshing coolness. Whether served at a party or enjoyed by yourself, it’s a rejuvenating and flavorful drink that’s perfect for sipping on hot days.

Honey-Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This honey-balsamic grilled vegetable dish is a vibrant, flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with any summer meal.

The sweet and tangy honey-balsamic glaze caramelizes on the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness while adding a savory depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, sliced into wedges
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the sliced vegetables in a large bowl and drizzle the honey-balsamic glaze over them. Toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Grill the vegetables in a single layer, turning occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes, until tender and lightly charred.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

The honey-balsamic glaze on these grilled vegetables brings a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

The veggies develop a beautiful caramelized exterior, making them a perfect side dish for barbecued meats or a vegetarian option on their own.

Honey-Almond Yogurt Parfaits

These honey-almond yogurt parfaits are a delicious and healthy dessert or breakfast option for the summer.

The layers of creamy yogurt, sweet honey, crunchy almonds, and fresh fruit create a delightful combination of textures and flavors in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, etc.)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with honey and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and well combined.
2. In serving glasses or bowls, layer the honeyed yogurt, fresh berries, and toasted almonds.
3. Repeat the layers, finishing with a drizzle of honey on top.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a chilled treat.

These honey-almond yogurt parfaits are the perfect way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying summer dessert or breakfast.

The honey adds a natural sweetness to the yogurt, while the toasted almonds give a satisfying crunch. With fresh berries, it’s a refreshing and wholesome option for a warm day.

Honey-Peach Glazed Grilled Chicken

This honey-peach glazed grilled chicken is the epitome of summer grilling.

The sweetness of honey and the juicy flavor of ripe peaches create a delicious glaze that caramelizes on the chicken, infusing it with bold, fruity flavors that perfectly complement the smoky grilled taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 ripe peaches, peeled and pureed
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the pureed peaches, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and ground ginger. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
4. Brush the chicken with the peach-honey glaze and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Brush with additional glaze while grilling for a glossy finish.
6. Serve immediately with extra peach glaze on the side, if desired.

This honey-peach glazed grilled chicken is the perfect summer dish, bringing together the juicy sweetness of peaches and honey with the savory, smoky flavor of grilled chicken.

It’s a standout recipe for your next BBQ or dinner party, served with sides like rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Honey-Ginger BBQ Ribs

These honey-ginger BBQ ribs are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and a little bit of heat.

The honey helps caramelize the sauce on the ribs, while the ginger adds a bit of spice and freshness, making these ribs a crowd-pleasing summer BBQ favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks baby back ribs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat and prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the ribs with the honey-ginger glaze and place them on the grill, bone-side down. Grill for 2–3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with more glaze, until the ribs are tender and the glaze has caramelized.
4. Once cooked, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra honey-ginger glaze on the side.

The honey and ginger create a delightful sweet and spicy glaze that enhances the richness of the ribs.

These are perfect for a summer cookout and pair wonderfully with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob.

Honey-Lavender Lemonade

This honey-lavender lemonade is a refreshing, floral twist on the classic summer drink.

The honey balances the tartness of the lemons, and the lavender adds a calming, aromatic note, making this a soothing drink to enjoy on warm days.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups water
• 1/4 cup dried lavender flowers (food-grade)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices and lavender sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a simmer. Add the lavender flowers and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
2. Strain out the lavender and pour the infused water into a large pitcher.
3. Stir in the honey until dissolved, then add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the remaining 4 cups of cold water.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness with more honey, if desired.
5. Refrigerate until cold, then serve over ice, garnished with lemon slices and sprigs of lavender.

This honey-lavender lemonade is not only refreshing but also uniquely fragrant, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic summer drink.

The lavender’s floral notes pair beautifully with the citrusy lemon and sweet honey, making it perfect for a summer afternoon.

Honey-Pecan Ice Cream

This creamy honey-pecan ice cream is rich and indulgent, with the perfect balance of sweetness from the honey and crunch from the toasted pecans.

It’s a great homemade dessert for summer, especially if you have an ice cream maker!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 large egg yolks
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until just simmering, stirring occasionally.
2. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks and a pinch of salt. Gradually pour about 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
3. Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the cream mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until completely chilled (about 4 hours or overnight).
5. Once chilled, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last few minutes of churning, add the toasted pecans. Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

This honey-pecan ice cream is a creamy, nutty, and indulgent treat perfect for summer.

The rich honey flavor enhances the sweetness, while the toasted pecans add a delightful crunch. It’s a great dessert to make in advance for a summer party or barbecue.

Honey-Balsamic Strawberry Salad

This honey-balsamic strawberry salad is a light and refreshing dish perfect for summer picnics or as a side for grilled meats.

The honey-balsamic dressing adds a rich sweetness that beautifully complements the fresh strawberries, making this salad both sweet and savory.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup goat cheese or feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
2. In a large bowl, toss the salad greens with the strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted almonds.
3. Drizzle the honey-balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately as a fresh and vibrant salad.

The combination of the sweet honey-balsamic dressing with the fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast with the creamy goat cheese and crunchy almonds.

This salad is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your summer gatherings.

Honey-Sriracha Glazed Grilled Tofu

This honey-sriracha glazed grilled tofu is a bold and flavorful vegetarian option for your summer BBQ.

The honey and sriracha create a sweet and spicy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the tofu, giving it a crispy exterior and a tender inside.

Ingredients:

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to make the marinade.
2. Place the tofu cubes in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat and oil the grill grates.
4. Thread the marinated tofu cubes onto skewers and grill for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden.
5. Serve the grilled tofu with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for garnish.

This honey-sriracha glazed tofu is packed with bold flavors, offering a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savoriness.

It makes a fantastic vegetarian main or side dish at your next summer BBQ.

Honey-Papaya Smoothie

This tropical honey-papaya smoothie is a refreshing and healthy drink to cool down on hot summer days.

The honey enhances the natural sweetness of the papaya, while the smoothie is creamy and full of flavor, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe papaya, peeled, seeded, and chopped
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup coconut water or almond milk
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp lime juice
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Place the chopped papaya, Greek yogurt, coconut water (or almond milk), honey, and lime juice in a blender.
2. Add ice cubes and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the smoothie into glasses and serve immediately, garnished with a lime wedge or mint leaves, if desired.

This honey-papaya smoothie is a tropical, nutrient-packed drink that’s perfect for staying hydrated and energized during the summer.

The natural sweetness of the papaya and honey, combined with the tanginess of the lime, creates a refreshing and delicious drink.