8 Healthy Summer Dinner Recipes

Summer goes hand-in-hand with being fit, healthy, and outside. What is better than a day playing in the waves at the beach, hiking a long trail to be rewarded with a dip in the fresh springs, or a day spent picnicking in the park with family and friends? And after hours spent basking or being adventurous in the warm summer sun, a healthy dinner packed full of nutrients to refuel for the next fun-filled day is a must.

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We've rounded up a few of our favorite healthy dinner recipes that are easy to prepare and light enough to eat on a hot summer day. Dust off the grill and barbecue some juicy chicken or vegetable and chicken kebabs. Or try going vegetarian with meaty grilled eggplant and a feta and cucumber salad.

One of the best ways to serve a hearty protein is to lighten it up with a fresh fruit salsa. Grilled fish, for example, pairs well with a refreshing watermelon salsa — and wait until you see our recipe for pork chops with fresh grilled peaches!

Whether you plan to relax by the pool or explore your more adventurous side this summer, make sure you have a delicious and healthy dinner each night.

Healthy Shrimp Burger Recipe

Shrimp is low in fat, which makes for a healthy burger protein. When using shrimp, however, it's important to make sure to add the right seasonings. This recipe is packed with flavorful spices like Old Bay, making this burger not only nourishing, but delicious, too.

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Grilled Fish with Watermelon Salsa Recipe

Sometimes, old favorites just need a little twist to make them new and interesting again. Such is the case with salsa. It's a versatile topping that makes grilled chicken, fish, and beef something a little special. But sometimes, even the taste-maker needs some livening up. Here, we use watermelon to add some sweetness to the typical sour-spicy flavor profile of pico de gallo.

Click here to see the Grilled Fish with Watermelon Salsa Recipe

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Emily Jacobs is the Recipe editor at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @EmilyRecipes.

This story was originally published on June 4, 2014.