Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Summer stews may not be the first dish that comes to mind when the weather warms up.
But these 26+ summer stews recipes are here to change that.
Designed with lighter broths, garden-fresh vegetables, and zesty herbs, they offer all the comfort of a stew—without the heaviness.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner, planning a picnic, or just need a quick one-pot meal, these recipes balance flavor and freshness effortlessly.
From Mediterranean to Caribbean, vegan to protein-packed, this collection celebrates seasonal ingredients in every bowl.
So grab your ladle—it’s time to stew your way through summer.
26+ Light and Refreshing Summer Stews Recipes to Keep You Cool and Full
These 26+ summer stews recipes prove that hearty meals don’t have to be heavy.
Each dish is crafted to bring you comfort, nourishment, and bright seasonal flavor—without heating up your kitchen or weighing you down.
From casual weeknights to festive outdoor dinners, these stews adapt to every summer moment.
Try one tonight and bring new life to your warm-weather cooking routine.
Provençal Vegetable Stew
Dive into the sun-drenched flavors of the French countryside with this Provençal Vegetable Stew.
Bursting with zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and bell peppers, each spoonful offers a medley of garden-fresh goodness.
Fragrant with herbs like thyme and rosemary, it delivers a light yet deeply savory aroma that teases the senses.
Whether served warm or chilled, this stew pairs effortlessly with grilled fish or crusty bread, or shines on its own as a nourishing, plant-based centerpiece.
Its tender vegetables and olive oil-kissed broth offer a silky texture that feels as comforting as a summer breeze.
Caribbean Fish Stew
Embrace the tropical spirit with Caribbean Fish Stew, where tender white fish meets a rich, coconut-lime broth.
The aroma of garlic, allspice, and fresh thyme instantly whisks you away to coastal islands.
This stew is both light and luscious, with each bite delivering the soft flakiness of the fish and the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ideal with jasmine rice or sweet plantains, it’s equally enjoyable on its own as a bold, flavor-packed summer dish.
The citrusy brightness and warm spices create a beautiful balance that lingers long after your last spoonful.
Corn and Zucchini Stew
Celebrate summer’s harvest with Corn and Zucchini Stew, a light and vibrant dish brimming with seasonal flavor.
Sweet corn kernels pop with juiciness, while soft zucchini melts into the savory tomato base.
Hints of smoked paprika and fresh basil add depth and fragrance without overpowering the dish’s fresh simplicity.
Enjoy it with grilled chicken or crusty sourdough, or savor it solo as a wholesome, veggie-forward delight.
Each bite is a tender, colorful mix of garden textures that taste like sunshine in a bowl.
Spicy Tomato Chickpea Stew
Savor the bold, comforting flavor of Spicy Tomato Chickpea Stew, where hearty legumes meet fiery, aromatic spices.
The scent of garlic, cumin, and crushed red pepper fills the kitchen with a tantalizing warmth.
Chickpeas provide a satisfying bite, soaking up the tangy tomato broth with each simmered moment.
Serve it over couscous or quinoa, or enjoy it alone as a protein-rich, belly-warming meal that’s light enough for summer.
The velvety texture and zesty kick make this stew a go-to for flavor lovers craving a meatless yet meaty experience.
Summer Chicken Stew
Bright, light, and comforting, the Summer Chicken Stew blends tender chicken with seasonal vegetables in a lemony herb broth.
Fragrant with dill, parsley, and garlic, this stew is delicate on the palate yet full of fresh character.
The chicken is juicy and fork-tender, mingling with green beans, potatoes, and carrots for a rustic, well-rounded dish.
It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a fresh garden salad but holds its own as a soul-satisfying summer supper.
Its clean flavors and vibrant ingredients make it a seasonal staple you’ll crave even on warmer days.
Shrimp and Okra Stew
Dive into coastal charm with Shrimp and Okra Stew, a Southern-inspired dish that’s both bold and refreshing.
The briny sweetness of shrimp blends seamlessly with the earthy richness of okra, all tied together by a tangy tomato base.
Hints of garlic, cayenne, and lemon give it a lively kick, while the stew’s gentle thickness adds just the right amount of body.
Delicious served over rice or with warm cornbread, it also makes a fulfilling solo dish with just enough spice to awaken your senses.
The blend of soft seafood and silky vegetables creates a texture that’s as delightful as its bright, summery flavor.
Tuscan Bean Stew
Let the rustic flavors of the Italian countryside shine in this light yet hearty Tuscan Bean Stew.
Creamy cannellini beans soak up a garlicky tomato broth enriched with fresh basil and a hint of olive oil.
The aroma is warm and inviting, offering comfort without heaviness, making it perfect for warm-weather meals.
Serve it with grilled ciabatta or a drizzle of lemon for extra brightness, or enjoy it solo as a wholesome, protein-packed dish.
Each spoonful delivers a smooth, earthy bite that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
Ratatouille
Celebrate peak summer produce with Ratatouille, the classic French stew that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful.
Zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and bell peppers simmer together in a rich, herb-infused olive oil base.
The scent of thyme, garlic, and fresh basil perfumes the air as the vegetables soften into a silky, vibrant medley.
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or crusty bread, or can stand alone as a show-stopping vegetarian main.
The texture is tender and velvety, with every bite bursting with garden-fresh taste.
Coconut Lentil Stew
Discover tropical comfort with Coconut Lentil Stew, a creamy, fragrant blend of red lentils, ginger, and coconut milk.
The warm aroma of curry spices mingles with the subtle sweetness of coconut, creating a cozy yet light flavor profile.
Lentils provide a hearty texture, while turmeric and lime add both vibrancy and depth.
Pair it with basmati rice or naan, or enjoy it alone as a satisfying, dairy-free summer meal.
Its silky texture and rich, spiced layers make it both soothing and energizing.
Tomato Zucchini Stew
Fresh, tangy, and effortless, Tomato Zucchini Stew is a celebration of seasonal simplicity.
Juicy tomatoes melt into soft zucchini rounds, all brightened with a touch of garlic, oregano, and balsamic vinegar.
The aroma is sharp and herbaceous, giving this stew a garden-fresh appeal perfect for sunny days.
It pairs seamlessly with grilled fish or couscous, or stands alone as a light, Mediterranean-inspired delight.
Each spoonful is juicy, tender, and filled with a natural, earthy sweetness.
Green Chile Chicken Stew
Bring a Southwestern breeze to your table with Green Chile Chicken Stew, full of bold flavor and tender chunks of chicken.
The smoky aroma of roasted green chiles blends with onions, garlic, and a squeeze of lime for a tangy, spicy kick.
The broth is light yet zesty, making it a perfect warm-weather option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
It’s delicious with tortillas or corn on the side, or savored alone as a vibrant, high-protein main.
Each bite balances heat, herbaceous depth, and satisfying texture.
Summer Squash Stew
Light, buttery, and brimming with seasonal charm, Summer Squash Stew highlights the best of garden-fresh yellow squash.
Softened in a savory broth with hints of thyme, garlic, and onion, the squash turns creamy while keeping its sweet, delicate flavor.
The aroma is mild yet comforting, perfect for a minimalist yet flavorful dish.
Serve it with rice, grilled shrimp, or enjoy it alone as a nourishing plant-based option.
Its soft texture and gentle seasoning offer a calm, comforting taste of summer.
Greek Chickpea Stew
Greek Chickpea Stew brings Mediterranean warmth to summer with its light, lemony broth and tender chickpeas.
Infused with oregano, garlic, and olive oil, it offers a fragrant, herbal aroma that’s both soothing and refreshing.
The chickpeas absorb every bit of flavor, creating a creamy, protein-rich base without heaviness.
Serve it with a wedge of warm pita or a side of olives, or let it stand alone as a bright vegetarian option.
Its citrusy zing and mellow earthiness make each bite deeply satisfying.
Moroccan Vegetable Stew
Filled with exotic spices and tender summer vegetables, Moroccan Vegetable Stew is a colorful feast for the senses.
Cumin, coriander, and cinnamon fill the air with a rich, heady aroma as sweet potatoes, carrots, and zucchini gently stew.
The broth is slightly sweet, gently spiced, and vibrant, offering layers of flavor with every spoonful.
Pair it with couscous or enjoy it solo for a nourishing, spice-kissed experience.
Its balance of warmth and freshness makes it perfect for summer evenings.
Tomato Corn Stew
Tomato Corn Stew is a sweet and savory celebration of peak-season produce, perfect for late summer dinners.
Juicy tomatoes blend with tender corn kernels, creating a silky base brightened with fresh basil and a touch of onion.
The stew is light but flavorful, with an aroma that’s sweet, grassy, and garden-fresh.
Serve it with grilled sausage or crusty bread, or let its natural sweetness shine on its own.
Each bite bursts with summery freshness and gentle umami.
Lemon Lentil Stew
Lemon Lentil Stew offers a zesty twist on a comforting classic, combining hearty lentils with fresh herbs and citrus.
The broth is bright and tangy, infused with garlic, cumin, and a burst of lemon juice.
Its aroma is lively and clean, perfect for lifting your mood on warm afternoons.
Enjoy it with flatbread or spoon it solo for a satisfying, fiber-rich bowl.
Its light texture and sharp, refreshing flavor make it a standout summer option.
Summer Tomato Stew
Summer Tomato Stew is all about ripe tomatoes, simmered to perfection with garlic, olive oil, and garden herbs.
The aroma is deep and inviting, filled with the sweetness and acidity of peak-season tomatoes.
Softened onions and hints of thyme round out the flavor, creating a rustic, no-fuss dish.
Serve it over rice, pasta, or simply with a chunk of fresh bread.
Its simplicity and sun-ripened taste capture the essence of the season.
Herbed Zucchini Stew
Herbed Zucchini Stew transforms this humble squash into a star with a fragrant blend of dill, parsley, and garlic.
Light and brothy, the stew delivers a refreshing aroma and a clean, vegetal flavor with a hint of citrus.
The zucchini is tender but not mushy, offering a pleasing texture in every bite.
Perfect alongside grilled proteins or as a light lunch on its own.
Its delicate seasoning and crisp freshness make it a go-to for breezy summer meals.
Eggplant Stew
Eggplant Stew is a silky, savory dish that brings out the vegetable’s naturally rich and smoky qualities.
Slow-cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, it fills the air with a warm, earthy aroma that feels both rustic and elegant.
The texture is melt-in-your-mouth soft, yet still hearty enough to satisfy on its own.
Pair it with couscous or grilled meats, or let it shine solo as a flavorful plant-based main.
Its deep, mellow flavor makes it ideal for warm-weather comfort without the heaviness.
Summer Seafood Stew
Brimming with fresh shrimp, mussels, and light white fish, Summer Seafood Stew captures the taste of the coast.
The broth is a fragrant mix of white wine, tomatoes, and herbs, offering a briny, sun-kissed scent.
Each bite is juicy and tender, with seafood that flakes perfectly into the savory base.
Serve it with crusty bread or a squeeze of lemon and enjoy it as a standalone showstopper.
Its clean, ocean-inspired flavor is refreshing and satisfying, even on the hottest days.
Chard and White Bean Stew
Chard and White Bean Stew blends leafy greens and creamy beans into a wholesome, nourishing dish.
The garlic-scented broth is light and savory, allowing the natural flavors of the chard to shine.
Each spoonful delivers a balance of smooth beans and tender greens, perfect for a filling yet gentle meal.
Enjoy it with toast or on its own for a simple, protein-rich bowl.
Its comforting warmth and vegetal brightness make it ideal for breezy summer nights.
Coconut Chicken Stew
Coconut Chicken Stew offers a creamy, tropical twist with tender chicken and a fragrant coconut milk base.
Lime, ginger, and cilantro add bursts of brightness to its gently spiced, savory aroma.
The chicken is soft and juicy, while the broth is silky and full of subtle sweetness.
Pair it with jasmine rice or spoon it alone for a bold yet soothing summer meal.
Its exotic flavor and light, creamy finish make it a standout in any seasonal spread.
Summer Pea Stew
Summer Pea Stew is a light, sweet dish that celebrates the freshness of tender green peas.
Simmered with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, it releases a soft, garden-fresh scent that invites you in.
The texture is vibrant and slightly crisp, offering a refreshing contrast to its savory broth.
It pairs beautifully with grilled fish or makes a gentle standalone option for lighter fare.
Each bite bursts with summery sweetness and herbal depth.
Lima Bean Stew
Lima Bean Stew brings out the creaminess of this underrated legume in a rich yet bright tomato-based broth.
Seasoned with oregano, paprika, and garlic, it gives off a warm, spiced aroma with every simmer.
The beans are buttery and tender, melting effortlessly into the flavorful sauce.
Serve it with rice, grilled meats, or as a protein-packed plant-based main.
Its rich texture and balanced spices make it comforting without weighing you down.
Mushroom Zucchini Stew
Mushroom Zucchini Stew blends the umami depth of mushrooms with the fresh, mild sweetness of summer squash.
Infused with thyme, garlic, and vegetable broth, it delivers a woodsy, aromatic scent.
The mushrooms are meaty, while the zucchini adds a soft, silky touch to every spoonful.
Perfect with a slice of sourdough or as a standalone light dinner.
Its earthy richness and subtle summer brightness make it a satisfying seasonal favorite.
Sweet Potato Corn Stew
Sweet Potato Corn Stew offers a naturally sweet, creamy blend of vibrant summer corn and tender sweet potatoes.
The broth is infused with cumin, lime, and a touch of chili for a bold, balanced flavor.
Its scent is sweet and spicy, hinting at both warmth and freshness.
Enjoy it with tortilla chips or a simple green salad, or savor it solo for a filling vegetarian option.
The combination of creamy texture and gentle spice makes this stew as comforting as it is invigorating.
Conclusion
Stews aren’t just for cold days—they’re for creative cooks with fresh ingredients and a little imagination.
These 26+ summer stews recipes are full of inspiration from gardens, global kitchens, and sunny skies.
Every bowl invites you to explore new textures, bold spices, and refreshing flavor profiles.
So stir, simmer, and savor the season—because summer comfort food has officially arrived.
