When the days are still warm, but the evenings start to hint at fall, cooking can feel like a balancing act. You want comforting meals, but you don’t want to stand over a hot stove or crank up the oven. That’s where your microwave, especially a SHARP Microwave Drawer™ Oven or SHARP Carousel Countertop Microwave, becomes the perfect tool for creating late summer recipes that are quick, flavorful, and won’t heat up the kitchen.
Whether you’re enjoying the last of the season’s produce or just need easy seasonal meals on busy weeknights, these microwave dinners will help you make the most of August and early September.
Why the Microwave is a Late-Summer MVP
Keeps the kitchen cool – No need to battle lingering summer heat.
Minimizes cleanup – Fewer pots and pans mean more time to relax and enjoy the evening.
Perfect for quick reheats & make-ahead meals – Easily warm up prepped ingredients or leftovers without heating the whole kitchen.
- Fresh Corn & Black Bean Burrito Bowls
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 minutes
Using late-summer sweet corn and juicy tomatoes, these bowls are both hearty and refreshing.
Microwave Tip: Steam fresh corn in the husk for 4 minutes in the microwave—no pot of boiling water needed.
Ingredients:
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Cooked rice (or microwaveable rice pouches)
- Black beans (rinsed and drained)
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped avocado
- Lime wedges & cilantro
Directions:
- Microwave corn, cut kernels off the cob.
- Warm black beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1–2 minutes.
- Assemble rice, beans, corn, and toppings in bowls.
- Finish with lime juice and cilantro.
- Late-Summer Ratatouille in Minutes
Prep Time: 8 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes
Classic ratatouille gets a microwave makeover, letting you enjoy zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes without the stovetop fuss.
Microwave Tip: Cut veggies evenly for faster, more consistent cooking.
Ingredients:
- Diced zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil, garlic, fresh basil
- Salt & pepper
Directions:
- Place veggies in a microwave-safe dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season, and toss.
- Cover and microwave for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Couscous
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes
Seafood cooks beautifully in the microwave, making this dish ideal for a light yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
- Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic
- Couscous (microwaveable)
- Fresh parsley
Directions:
- Combine shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes, until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Microwave couscous per package directions.
- Serve shrimp over couscous, garnish with parsley.
- Peach & Berry Crisp for Dessert
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 4 minutes
Make the most of late-summer fruit with a quick, single-serving crisp that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- Sliced peaches and blueberries
- Brown sugar, cinnamon
- Quick oats & butter
Directions:
- Place fruit in a microwave-safe mug.
- Mix oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter; sprinkle over fruit.
- Microwave for 3–4 minutes, until bubbling.
Discover More Recipes & Articles
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our other Simply Better Living blogs for seasonal recipes, appliance care tips, and time-saving ideas designed for busy families. From easy back-to-school lunches to smart kitchen cleaning hacks, SHARP has you covered.
Why Do I Choose a Microwave Drawer Oven?
