Comfort. Flavor. Satisfaction. Grains bring it all to the table.
There’s one thing every memorable summer gathering has in common: good food that brings people together. And at the heart of many of those meals are grain foods — offering flavor, nutrition and the kind of satisfying bite that turns a meal into a moment.
After all, grains are made for sharing! They’re comforting, versatile and widely loved — making them a natural fit for everything from casual cookouts to festive summer spreads.
Grains as the Foundation – Not Just a Side
It’s easy to think of grains as background players, but in reality, they often serve as the foundation of a dish — anchoring meals with texture, taste and staying power.
Here are a few grain-forward ideas for your next summer gathering:
Grain salads
Grain Salads are a perfect way to incorporate whole grains into meals that are fresh, flavorful and filling, making them an ideal choice for summer dining. Start with a base like pasta, barley, or sorghum, then layer in summer vegetables, fresh herbs, and bold dressings — or try a protein-packed mix of millet, black beans, red pepper and lime. Grain salads are endlessly customizable, easy to prep ahead, and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or relaxed summer meals.
Breads and rolls
A delicious base to summer meals! Think picnic-perfect sandwiches on fluffy, fresh rolls, or grilled flatbreads topped with garden veggies and hummus. Toasted baguette slices pair perfectly with tomato salads or charcuterie boards, while day-old bread finds new life in panzanella or as homemade croutons for salads or chilled soups.
Toasts
A stylish and satisfying way to highlight the vibrant fresh produce summer is known for — consider it avocado toast, elevated. Try a Caprese-inspired version with juicy tomato slices, creamy mozzarella and a balsamic drizzle on toasted sourdough. Or sauté seasoned zucchini and layer it with hummus on hearty whole grain bread for a Mediterranean twist.
This Summer Vegetable Avocado Toast is always a brunch crowd-pleaser. The possibilities are endless, making toasts a versatile staple for any summer spread.
Grains Bring More to the Table
Beyond their versatility, grains offer a wealth of nutritional benefits that support overall health and well-being. As a key source of carbohydrates, they provide the energy our bodies and brains need to power through active summer days.
| Nutrition Spotlight: Grains are naturally satisfying and always nourishing. Learn what a grain is and how they can help meet your health goals here. |
Many grain foods, especially whole grains, are also rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling fuller, longer. In addition, grains deliver essential nutrients like B vitamins (including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and folate), iron, magnesium, and selenium, all of which play important roles in metabolism, immune function, and cell health.
The bottom line: With wide appeal, everyday practicality and strong nutrition credentials, grain foods are the ultimate summer staple — equally at home on a picnic table or at the center of a celebratory feast!
Looking for more summertime inspiration? Explore our roundup of The Summer 10: Recipes Worth Gathering Around.