40 Wedding Menu Ideas for Summer

White Bowl With Dill Yogurt Sauce and Stuffed Zucchini — Photo by Jenny Quicksall

Planning your menu for a summer wedding is one of the most important tasks to check off your to-do list. Whether you opt for a buffet-style reception or a plated meal, there are so many options to choose from. And while the format of your dinner (or brunch) service definitely matters, the food you select is even more important. "You want your guests to indulge but also feel good when eating at your wedding, so spending time on your menu creation and asking your caterer questions is crucial," says Shaivi Sukhadia and Oscar Garcia of Sukhadia Caterers.

Meet the Expert

Shaivi Sukhadia is the owner and director of catering and Oscar Garcia is the executive chef at Sukhadia Caterers, a premium wedding and event caterer in South Plainfield, New Jersey, that's been in the business for 20 years.
Stephani O'Connor is a culinary specialist with over a decade of experience in the industry. She is also the former culinary director of The Peached Tortilla, a full-serve South Asian fusion restaurant and catering business in Austin, Texas.

If you're at a loss for what to serve at your cocktail hour and wedding reception, luckily, you can use the season to inspire your menu. In the summer, there are so many delicious fruits and vegetables that are at their peak, from tomatoes and eggplant to peaches and watermelon. By selecting dishes made with ripe ingredients, you'll create a fresher, more flavorful spread, while putting together a cohesive event that coordinates with the time of year. Just remember to plan a well-balanced menu with a variety of items, per Sukhadia and Garcia, so everyone feels nourished and energized. And since your friends and family will be wearing formal attire, make sure that the cuisine isn't too messy or difficult to eat.

To get the full scoop on the best food to serve at your celebration, we called upon our rolodex of caterers, chefs, and culinary experts. Keep scrolling to learn expert-approved tips and tricks to embrace the flavors of the season, plus 40 mouthwatering wedding menu ideas for summer.

Tips for Planning Your Summer Wedding Menu

To help you choose the best items for your summer wedding menu, we asked the experts to share their must-know tips for planning your dishes.

Make It Interactive

Look for ways to make your big day even more special by adding interactive food stations. Not only is this display unique, but it will also encourage your guests to get up, move around, and mingle with one another. "Especially in summer, stations are a big deal for us, and they just keep getting more popular," culinary specialist Stephani O'Connor says. "We put together a lot of fun, interactive stations for weddings. The more interactive, the better."

Graze a Little

Grazing tables are trending in the wedding space, and they're especially impactful at a summer soirée. "Taking a whole table and filling it with a variety of food has become so popular," O'Connor mentions. Select your favorite meats and cheeses, and pair them with nuts, melon, berries, and other in-season options to create the perfect lineup. Grazing tables give your guests the opportunity to nibble as the day goes on without making them feel like they need to sit down for a full, heavy meal.

Stay Fresh

Incorporate fresh flavors into your passed appetizers or stations, and consider greeting guests with something light as they arrive at the ceremony. "Summer always brings menus with fresh, seasonal food, incorporating more berries, melons, and a lot of fresh herbs," O’Connor explains. "Whatever is fresh in season at the time, we definitely use a lot of it."

Keep It Light

Since many spots in the summer season are hot and humid, the last thing your guests want to consume is a heavy, rich meal that will make them sweat even more. “People tend to want things very fresh and very light," O'Connor points out. For instance, sushi and grilled fish are fresh options that won't weight anyone down. If you're serving pasta, O'Connor recommends using a browned butter sauce instead of a thicker, cream-based one.

Add Herbs

In addition to seasonal fruits and vegetables, the summer season gives way to numerous in-season herbs, such as basil, dill, mint, cilantro, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. "Make sure your wedding menu includes fresh herbs, either used in the recipe to give it that flavor or as a simple topping to complete the dish," Sukhadia and Garcia advise. Maybe this looks like a homemade pesto sauce blended with basil or a tossed salad topped with cilantro.

Focus on the Presentation

The way in which you present these summer dishes will make them even more appetizing. Plus, the display can pull your event together and reinforce your aesthetic. Sukhadia and Garcia suggest adding color and texture to your spread by decorating with fresh fruits and vegetables, whether it's lemon slices on top of your roasted salmon entrée or fresh blackberries on your blackberry crumble.

40 Wedding Menu Ideas for Summer

With these key tips in mind, we put together a list of wedding menu ideas that will inspire you when selecting your summer wedding feast.

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Sushi Bar

Trays of colorful assorted sushi including avocado rolls, salmon rolls, tuna, and more. — Photo by Carla Ten Eyck Photography

Light, refreshing, and seasonal, sushi is a go-to choice for summer weddings. Work with your caterer to set up a gorgeous, diverse lineup of bites that everyone will love—including vegetarian options for anyone who doesn't (or can't) eat raw fish.

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Grazing Table

Charcuterie Board on Wooden Board With Grapes, Cheese, and Metas — Photo by Liz Banfield

A grazing table with your favorite meats, cheeses, crackers, and seasonal fruits is a delicious wedding menu idea for summer. Your guests will love the variety and flavor and the ability to move around and make their own charcuterie plates.

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Stuffed Zucchini

Close Up of Zucchini Wedding Meal With Yogurt Dill Sauce — Photo by Jenny Quicksall

Since zucchini and dill are at their peak ripeness in the summer, consider serving an appetizer, side, or entrée where this green vegetable and herb are the stars of the show. Stuffed zucchini, garnished with fresh dill and coated in a yogurt dill sauce, is nutrient-packed fare that combines creamy, crunchy, and citrus flavors.

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Tropical Shrimp Salad

Mexican passed appetizers with shrimp and cucumbers — Photo by Stephanie Lynn Photography

Since seafood is fresh in the summer and a light option, it's a choice that couples tend to gravitate toward for their big day in the warmer months. Bowls of shrimp, cucumber, and mango—decorated with an edible flower—will incorporate the flavors and colors of the season. This wedding menu idea is best for tropical affairs or settings.

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Fresh Flatbread

Flatbread with lemon, arugula, and prosciutto — Photo by Katie Parra Photography

If you're thinking about serving a spread of pizzas but you're worried that the fare might be too heavy for your guests, opt for a simple flatbread as a lighter alternative. For an upscale choice, top this doughy dish with prosciutto, arugula, and lemon slices, which are all in-season ingredients.

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Sweet Pea Bruschetta

To make use of the bountiful harvest that summer presents, integrate a seasonal vegetable like peas into your wedding menu. We love the idea of making this slightly-sweet crop the base of a passed appetizer. As always, bread and cheese will take this dish to the next level.

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Arugula Salad

If your wedding menu includes a salad, be sure to keep it light and seasonal. Bitter arugula, zesty microgreens, edible flowers, and shaved parmesan will infuse a medley of refreshing flavors and create a gorgeous presentation. Opt for dressings like lemon and olive oil or balsamic rather than creamy ranch or Caesar options.

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Quinoa Cakes With Tomato and Smoked Salmon

Close Up of Hors D'oeuvres With Smoked Salmon — Photo by Bo Shim

According to Sukhadia and Garcia, tomatoes are an ingredient that every couple should consider for their summer wedding. If you're looking for something more out-of-the-box than the classic tomato-and-mozzarella combination, add slices of heirloom tomatoes to quinoa cakes with smoked salmon. For another burst of flavor, trim each seafood-based dish with a seasonal herb.

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Charcuterie Cones

While a charcuterie board is a strong candidate for any summer wedding, rethinking the format by opting for personalized, pre-portioned cones will set your dish apart from the rest. Martini glasses overflowing with gourmet crackers, cheeses, meats, and vegetables are highly photogenic and easier to consume.

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Dumplings With Soy Sauce Droppers

Dumpling Hors d'Oeuvres With Soy Sauce Droppers — Photo by Meredith Campbell Photography

With a variety of fillings, from pork and chives to chicken and cabbage, dumplings are extremely adaptable based on the type of wedding you're throwing. Adding this doughy fare to your cocktail menu will be a popular pick with your guests, especially if you add droppers of soy sauce to each bite—both a unique and practical presentation idea.

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Surf and Turf Skewers

Hors D'oeuvres With Shrimp and Sausage on Skewers — Photo by 515 Photo Co.

Surf and turf is another wedding menu idea for summer that every couple should keep in mind. This cuisine offers a mix of lighter and heavier options and caters to every palate. You can either serve a plated meal or stick with passed appetizers, such as shrimp and sausage arranged on skewers.

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Fresh Bass With Seasonal Vegetables

Bass with risotto and fresh vegetables — Photo by Sasithon Photography

The best formula to follow for a plated summer wedding meal, especially at coastal fêtes, is none other than fresh fish and vegetables. For one idea, pair a sea bass filet with red peppers, asparagus, and seasonal tomatoes atop creamy risotto, a well-balanced and palatable pick.

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Black Bean and Corn Salad

Black bean and corn shooters on wooden board — Photo by Cameron Clark

The sweet flavor of corn, paired with the heartiness of black beans, just evokes all those simple summertime vibes. Consider a dish combining the two of them, served as a shooter or a plated salad.

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Fresh Burrata Salad

Some cheeses can be rich and heavy, but burrata is a light, refreshing iteration that pairs well with anything. For a classic combination, fuse the soft, creamy cheese with bright, seasonal tomatoes in a simple salad dish.

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Eggplant Tarts

Eggplant is another vegetable that's newly harvested during the summer months, making it a wonderful wedding menu idea for this time of year. Since roasting this vegetable is more in line with fall soirées, turn this purple, spongy ingredient into a purée, topped with tomatoes and basil, for a summer-worthy selection.

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Wood-Fired Pizza

A food bar with gourmet pizza topped with tomatoes and balsamic glaze — Photo by Holtz Wedding Photography

Although pizza is a crowd-pleasing choice for any time of the year, to make this dish geared toward summer, look to seasonal toppings, such as tomatoes and red peppers. For an ounce of sweetness, complete the pie with a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

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Dressed-Up Hot Dogs

A half hot dog on a poppy-seed bun with mustard and herb topping — Photo by Ashley Ludaescher

For the whimsical couple, take this summer staple up a notch with gourmet buns, fresh herbs, and authentic Dijon mustard. These miniature Chicago-style hot dogs are the perfect tasty treat for a soirée in the warmer months.

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Salmon Crudo

Silver spoons with tuna tartare and caviar — Photo by Amy and Stuart Photography

Another fish-based wedding menu idea for summer is salmon crudo. Served in silver spoons and adorned with crème fraîche and roe, this appetizer is ideal for formal gatherings at upscale venues, whether it's at a château or in a ballroom.

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Plated Antipasto

Antipasto plated dish — Photo by Pat Furey Photography

The dimensional flavor of arugula fares well with a balsamic drizzle, creating an interesting mix of flavors. Pair both with a unique plated dish of cured, sliced meats and shaved cheese for a simple start to your meal.

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Oyster Bar

Oysters on the half shell — Photo by Sasithon Photography

Oysters are a supreme summer snack, especially if you and your guests enjoy them on a white-sand beach or a manicured lawn. For optimal flavor and freshness, make sure to serve them on ice and with a variety of sauces.

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A Raw Veggie Bar

Table With Baskets of Broccoli, Carrots, Celery, Radishes, and Artichoke — Photo by Mullers Photo

For garden soirées, picnic receptions, or organic affairs, a table brimming with picnic baskets of raw vegetables will enhance your aesthetic and setting for a summer wedding. Stick with seasonal staples, such as carrots, celery, and tomatoes.

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Fig and Blackberry Salad

For a sweet-and-savory starter, select a medley of greens and fresh fruit. A salad with mixed spring greens, seasonal figs, and juicy blackberries will make a delicious first course that successfully introduces the main act.

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Salmon Entrée

Pan-seared salmon topped with arugula, grapefruit, and nuts — Photo by Gretchen Gause

If you’re opting for a sit-down dinner, stick with a fresh, light option for your main course, such as pan-seared salmon. Use the protein as a base before incorporating other summer flavors like citrus and bitter greens.

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Caprese Skewers

Tray of skewers with mozzarella, cherry tomato, and basil with balsamic drizzle — Photo by Mikkel Paige Photography

Nothing screams summer like bright tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic. Caprese skewers will give your guests a nourishing option that will tide them over until dinner.

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Seafood Bar

A seafood bar pays homage to this time of the year and incorporates an interactive element that your friends and family will love. Set up crab claws (and any other seafood you fancy), along with an array of dipping sauces that guests can help themselves to at their leisure.

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Bright Berry Cups

Mason jars with berry fruit salad — Photo by Shelly Anderson Photography

If you're hosting a brunch or lunchtime reception, a fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and melon will suit the daytime event and capture the flavors of the season. For a fun display that's easy for guests to grab, consider stuffing mason jars with these juicy, colorful types of produce.

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Roasted Chicken

Another wedding menu idea for a summer entrée is roasted chicken. This protein choice will fuel your guests without stuffing them. You can also incorporate the taste of summer into your side dishes, such as corn bread and sautéed greens.

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Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon

Nothing embodies the taste of summer quite like melons. For a passed appetizer that evokes a juxtaposition of irresistible flavors at your summertime celebration, pair sweet, crisp cantaloupe with salty prosciutto.

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Lobster Rolls

Grasp the taste and feeling of summertime with mini lobster rolls in hot, buttered buns. If you're tying the knot in Maine, known for this type of shellfish, lobster rolls are an especially appealing appetizer option. If you aren't a fan of lobster, you can easily swap the base for crab, chicken, or tuna.

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Roasted Beets

Beet salad with strawberries, cheese, and raw spinach — Photo by Mike Radford

Add a splash of color to your menu with beets. With its bright, eye-catching hue and sweet, earthy flavor, this culinary item is a beautiful and tasty base for a summer salad. Sprinkle in goat cheese, strawberries, and honey to bring out the delectable flavor.

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Mini Ice Cream Cones

Mini chocolate ice cream cones — Photo by Erin McGinn

Who says you can't have ice cream on the menu? While cake is the traditional wedding dessert, a sugary cone with an ice-cold, creamy scoop of chocolate, vanilla, or another fun flavor is the quintessential summer treat. Serve bite-size cones for your after-dinner sugar fix, or you can even add them to your cocktail menu.

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Fish Tacos

Instead of the classic ground beef filling, give tacos a summery spin by using grilled fish as the base. Serving mini shells on limes and alongside margaritas will make for an unforgettable and flavorsome presentation.

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Veggie Rolls

Veggie spring rolls at wedding reception — Photo by O'Malley Photographers

For a vegetable-packed appetizer that's reminiscent of the season, another wedding menu idea is fresh veggie roles. Fill each one with cucumbers, carrots, celery, bell peppers, and any other in-season ingredient, paired with a brilliant sauce to top it all off.

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Pineapple Pulled Pork Sliders

Woman holding a tray of pulled pork sliders — Photo by O'Malley Photographers

For tropical soirées set in the summer, channel the island flavors, such as pineapple and pork, to create a tasty slider option. Served on warm, flaky buns, this appetizer idea will make everyone crave seconds.

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Chocolate on the Half Shell

Mussel shells filled with salted chocolate — Photo by Ryan Ray

Guests will be in for a fun surprise when they find oyster shells filled with chocolate and flaky sea salt instead of shellfish. If you want to add a sugary treat (that still complements the season) to your cocktail hour menu, look no further than this unexpected dish.

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Kale and Farro Salad

Salad with farro, strawberries, cheese, and crostini — Photo by Taylor McCutchan

Salads don't have to be boring. For a hearty wedding menu idea that's overflowing with summer produce, pair kale and farro with slivered almonds, ripe strawberries, and creamy burrata as a starter, side, or entrée.

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Mozzarella With Candied Tomato Skewers

Tray with candied tomatoes and mozzarella — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography

Take the fresh flavors of a Caprese dish and switch it up a bit by pairing pesto-drizzled mozzarella with grape tomatoes on skewers. The soft, salty cheese and juicy tomatoes will surely melt in your mouth.

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Fig Bruschetta

Fresh fig and goat cheese bruschetta — Photo by Kelly Brown

Since figs are in season at the beginning of summer, consider a fig-based appetizer if you're exchanging vows in June. When paired with goat cheese, this sweet fruit makes a refreshing, upscale type of bruschetta.

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Rosé Popsicles

Tray of rose popsicles — Photo by Aaron Delesie

Rosé popsicles are a fun, playful wedding menu idea that reimagines this pink summer sipper in a unique way. Consider popsicles of frozen bubbly during your cocktail hour, reception, or even later in the evening as a post-dinner treat.

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Steak on the Lighter Side

Roasted filet of beef with a fresh salsa on top — Photo by Gretchen Gause

If you opt for a heartier protein, such as a roasted bistro filet, pair it with light accompaniments like fresh tomato salsa. Finish it off with garlic and herbs for a satisfying summer meal.

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