Welcome to Southern Savers, where finding deals and steals is simple and rewarding!

See I told you, this would help!

Coupon Abbreviations
  • SC = Store Coupon
  • MC = Manufacturer Coupon
  • SS = Smart Source
  • RMN = Retail Me Not
  • PG = Proctor and Gamble
Coupon Terms
  • WYB = When You Buy
  • B1G1 = Buy One Get One Free
  • .75/1 = 75 cents off one item
  • .75/3 = 75 cents off three items
  • EXP = Expiration Date

Going Nuts? I can help you understand coupon terms and abbreviations

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure here.

There aren’t always enough hours in the day to accomplish an extravagant dinner, so often we’re looking for healthy options that can be prepared in a hurry.  There are also just some times when I need some inspiration. We can get stuck in a rut, which is fine, but every once in a while I enjoy trying something new. Here are some simple, fast and fresh dinner ideas that are delicious, even on a budget.

Note: These prices are based off of averages and are subject to change weekly.

5 Fast and Fresh Dinner Recipes for Summer

Baked Tilapia
I’ve heard some mention that Tilapia isn’t worth eating, I’d encourage you to try different recipes before you give up.  It’s one of the cheapest options for fish (though not as cheap as chicken) and is a great way to mix up your dinner routine.

Lemons, 49¢
Tilapia fillets, $3.99/lb
Butter, $1.50
Parmesan cheese, $1.99

Cashew Chicken

Since I mentioned that chicken is so cheap, here’s a fun way to dress it up.  We even see cashews on sale (this week bogo at Publix).  I love asian flavored dishes!

Mixed nuts or cashews, $4.99
Broccoli bunch, $1.99
Chicken breasts, $1.99/lb

Cheesy Tex Mex Tortilla Rolls

Grab great deals on tortillas at Publix or Kroger and have a meatless dinner with black beans as your protein.  Add to it with some simple Spanish rice or even chips and dip.

Tortillas, $1.25
Black Beans, 75¢
Cheddar cheese, $2
Bell Peppers, $1

Pan-Seared Sirloin Steaks

Thankfully the price of beef has started coming back down, so splurge a little and have a steak night this week!  You can break out the grill, but this is a great alternative for a quick way to cook a steak.

Boneless sirloin steaks, $6.50/lb

Summer Corn, Bacon, & Potato Chowder 

I know it’s a tad hot out… but soup night is always a favorite in our house.  I love this recipe.  If folks in your house need a bit more meat you can add in diced ham or even a slice of ham on the side (also bogo at Publix this week).

Baking potatoes, $1/lb
Onions, $1/lb
White Corn, 69¢
Bacon, $3.50

See the best of Southern Savers recipes!

No one wants to bake in the kitchen cooking in the summer. These 5 fast and fresh dinner recipes for summer will limit your cooking time and taste great!r cooking time and taste delicious!