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Memorable Summer Meals

May 5, 2025
10 min. read

Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Welcome to a Season of Memorable Moments

There’s something magical about the arrival of summer. The days grow longer, the sun shines a little brighter, and suddenly our calendars start to fill with backyard cookouts, family gatherings, and spontaneous road trips. It’s a time for celebration—of life, of love, and of delicious food shared with the people who matter most.

As we step into this joyful season, we’re reminded of all the moments that make summer so special. From sun-drenched brunches in the kitchen to breezy evening meals on the patio, every bite becomes a memory in the making. And with exciting holidays like Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Father’s Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day just around the corner, there are so many reasons to gather and celebrate.

This summer, Martin’s is here to help you make every moment more memorable with delicious recipe inspiration, fun seasonal ideas, and the return of our exciting Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes! From May 1 through July 31, we’re giving you the chance to win amazing prizes that help you celebrate six unique summer moments—whether it’s the first backyard meal of the season or a sweet frozen treat with the kids.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing blogs and recipes to inspire each of these fun and flavorful themes. But for now, we’re kicking things off with a sunny look at the six types of moments that define summer—and how Martin’s can help make each one unforgettable.

Let’s make this a summer to remember!

 

1.      Homemade Summer Brunch (Kitchen Moments)

There’s nothing quite like a slow summer morning in the kitchen—the kind that invites you to linger over coffee, savor the quiet, and ease into the day. Whether you’re surprising Mom with a special Mother’s Day meal, gathering with friends for Cinco de Mayo, or simply enjoying the first weekend of summer, a homemade brunch sets the tone for a season of togetherness.

The kitchen naturally becomes the heart of the home— buzzing with laughter, the clinking of dishes, and the inviting aroma of something homemade. As the summer sun spills through the windows and fresh seasonal ingredients come into play, it’s the perfect setting to create memories that last long after the last plate is cleared.

Want more brunch inspiration? Check out our recent Breakfast for Dinner blog for fun recipe twists or browse our brunch recipes archive to find a new weekend favorite.

Featured Recipe: Lavender & Lemon French Toast

Lavender & Lemon French Toast

Elevate your summer brunch with this refreshing twist on a classic favorite. Soft, pillowy Martin’s Potato Bread forms the perfect base for each slice, dipped in a sunny blend of eggs, milk, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla, then cooked to golden perfection.

The true showstopper? A fragrant lavender-scented whipped cream, lightly sweetened and infused with floral notes for a topping that feels as special as the occasion. Finished with lemon zest, a sprinkle of dried lavender, and a delicate lemon spiral, it’s a beautiful balance of bright citrus and soft, summery sweetness—perfect for celebrating Mom, or simply the joy of a summer morning.

Get the Recipe ➔

 

🎉 Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes – Round 1

Dates: May 1–15

Prize: Smart Kitchen TV + Speaker, plus a Martin’s product bundle

Use your new kitchen assistant to follow along with Martin’s recipes hands-free!

 

2.      First Outdoor Meal of the Season (Backyard Memories)

There’s something deeply satisfying about that first meal enjoyed outside after a long winter—the scent of fresh-cut grass, the sizzle of the grill, and the easygoing joy of eating al fresco. May is the perfect time to dust off the patio furniture, fire up the grill, and kick off the outdoor dining season in style. Whether you’re gathering with neighbors for National Hamburger Day, honoring loved ones over Memorial Day weekend, or simply soaking in the sunshine, this moment marks the start of a delicious new rhythm.

From juicy burgers to perfectly charred hot dogs and flavorful grilled sandwiches, backyard meals are a summer staple—and the perfect excuse to linger a little longer under the open sky.

Coming soon: Our upcoming blog on Creative Burger Toppings will help you take your grill game to the next level—just in time for Memorial Day weekend!

Featured Recipe: Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Bright, bold, and bursting with flavor, this grilled chicken sandwich is the perfect way to celebrate your first outdoor meal of the season. Juicy, marinated chicken breasts are infused with a zesty lemon-basil blend—featuring garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of avocado for richness—then grilled to perfection alongside thick-cut sweet onions.

Layered on a toasted Martin’s Sandwich Potato Roll with crisp arugula and Gruyère cheese, this sandwich is equal parts hearty and fresh. Whether you’re serving it up at a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire pit, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Get the Recipe ➔

 

🎉 Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes – Round 2

Dates: May 15–30

Prize: Breeo Smokeless Fire Pit + Martin’s Sandwich Potato Rolls, Long Potato Rolls, and Slider Potato Rolls

Turn your backyard into a grill-out getaway with the ultimate fire pit setup—and all the rolls you need for burgers, hot dogs, and more.

 

3.      Laid-Back Living Room Lunch (Cool Indoor Fun)

Sometimes the best summer memories happen indoors—especially during those humid afternoons or rainy days when all you want is a cool space, a good movie, and a satisfying lunch. Whether you’re planning a low-key Father’s Day celebration, taking a break from the heat, or just enjoying a lazy weekend afternoon, a cozy meal in front of the TV is a summer comfort worth savoring.

Pile up the pillows, grab the remote, and turn your living room into your own personal lunch lounge. It’s the perfect excuse to unwind, recharge, and indulge in something fun and filling—no fancy setup required.

Coming soon: Our upcoming blog will spotlight TV and movie-inspired recipes so you can bring your favorite screen-worthy meals to life at home!

 

Featured Recipe: Turkey Stacker Sandwich (“The Moist Maker”)

A must-try for fans of Friends, this legendary leftover-inspired sandwich recreates Ross’s iconic “Moist Maker.” Built with three slices of Martin’s Potato Bread, the center slice gets soaked in savory gravy for that unforgettable flavor boost.

Layered with roasted turkey breast, stuffing, cranberry sauce, lettuce, tomato, and a swipe of mayo, this sandwich strikes the perfect balance of nostalgic, hearty, and hilariously over-the-top. It’s the ultimate comfort food for your next couch-bound lunch break.

Get the Recipe ➔

 

🎉 Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes – Round 3

Dates: May 30 – June 13

Prize: QLED Smart TV + Martin’s Big Marty’s Rolls, Hoagie Rolls, and Sweet Dinner or Party Potato Rolls

Upgrade your movie marathons and TV lunch breaks with a brand-new screen and the perfect rolls for your favorite sandwiches.

 

4.      Summer Sweet Treats (Sweet Summer Indulgence)

Few things capture the magic of summer quite like a cold, sweet treat on a warm day. Whether you’re chasing the ice cream truck, pulling something frozen from the freezer, or making a special dessert at home, this season is all about indulging your sweet tooth and savoring the moment. And with the first day of summer arriving on June 20, there’s no better time to celebrate with something cool, creamy, and unexpected.

From backyard popsicles to handcrafted ice cream sandwiches, summer desserts bring out the kid in all of us—and Martin’s Sweet Rolls are the perfect canvas for all kinds of delicious creations.

Coming soon: Keep an eye out for our upcoming blog on Summer Dessert Hacks Using Martin’s Rolls for easy, crowd-pleasing ideas that’ll help you beat the heat with something sweet.

 

Featured Recipe: Peach Ice Cream Sandwich

This refreshing, no-bake treat is peak summer in every bite. A homemade peach ice cream blend—featuring frozen peaches, heavy cream, and a creamy store-bought base—is spread and frozen into a smooth, scoopable sheet.

Meanwhile, Martin’s Sweet Dinner Potato Rolls are split, brushed with melted butter, and dipped in sugar for a light, crunchy edge. Once assembled, the result is a soft, fruity, and delightfully cool sandwich that’s one part nostalgic ice cream parlor, one part homemade happiness.

Get the Recipe ➔

 

🎉 Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes – Round 4

Dates: June 13–27

Prize: Ice Cream Machine + Martin’s Sweet Rolls

Create your own frozen treats all summer long—made even sweeter with Martin’s as the base.

 

5.      Outdoor Summer Cookout (Backyard Celebrations)

There’s nothing quite like a backyard cookout to bring everyone together. The grill is fired up, the table is set with summer favorites, and the air is filled with laughter, music, and the unmistakable scent of something sizzling. Whether you’re planning a full-blown Fourth of July bash, hosting a weekend get-together, or simply celebrating another beautiful evening, outdoor dinners are what summer memories are made of.

This year’s celebrations are extra special as we mark Martin’s 70th Anniversary, and what better way to honor the milestone than with great food shared among family and friends?

Coming soon: Don’t miss our “70 Summer Recipes” blog—a collection of delicious ideas to help you plan the ultimate summer cookout, from burgers and brats to sides, sweets, and more!

 

Featured Recipe: Grilled Brat Kabobs with Marinated Vegetables

Grilled Brat Kabobs with Marinated Vegetables

These bold, colorful kabobs are a backyard BBQ favorite. Thick slices of bratwurst are grilled alongside marinated summer vegetables—zucchini, squash, mushrooms, and peppers—all soaked in a tangy herb vinaigrette that brings out their best flavor on the grill.

Once cooked to perfection, the kabob ingredients are served on Martin’s Long Potato Rolls, giving you all the fun and flavor of skewers with the comfort of a classic cookout sandwich. It’s the perfect hands-on meal for a big crowd (or seconds for yourself).

Get the Recipe ➔

 

🎉 Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes – Round 5

Dates: June 27 – July 14

Prize: Two Adirondack Chairs + Martin’s Sandwich Potato Rolls, Long Potato Rolls, and Slider Potato Rolls

Set the scene for your summer cookout with comfy outdoor seating and the rolls that make any grilled dish unforgettable.

 

6.      Food on the Go (Travel-Inspired Eats)

Summer was made for road trips, weekend getaways, and spontaneous adventures—and where there’s travel, there’s food! Whether you’re mapping out a cross-country journey, hitting your favorite vacation spot, or just exploring hidden gems close to home, regional eats are a huge part of the experience.

From boardwalk classics to roadside diners and everything in between, the best travel memories often come with something tasty in hand. Martin’s rolls make it easy to pack along a delicious sandwich or recreate a regional specialty wherever you are.

Explore more: Check out our Regional Trends blog archive for local flavor inspiration from across the U.S.—and stay tuned for our Summer Food Bucket List blog, highlighting iconic eats and must-try recipes from coast to coast.

 

Featured Recipe: New England Lobster Roll

This seaside classic brings the taste of a New England summer straight to your plate—no road trip required. Succulent lobster meat is tossed in a creamy mix of mayo, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and celery for the perfect balance of richness and crunch.

Served in a lightly toasted Martin’s Long Potato Roll brushed with melted butter, it’s a refreshingly simple sandwich that’s perfect for picnics, beach lunches, or even a fancy-feeling weekday bite on the go.

Get the Recipe ➔

 

🎉 Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes – Round 6

Dates: July 14–31

Prize: Ice Maker + Martin’s Sandwich Potato Rolls, Long Potato Rolls, and Potato Bread

Stay cool and well-fed wherever your summer travels take you—with chilled drinks and Martin’s rolls by your side.

 

Make This Summer One to Remember

No matter where your summer takes you—from brunch in the kitchen to dinners under the stars—Martin’s is here to help make every moment more delicious. Be sure to follow along for more recipes, seasonal inspiration, and helpful tips and tricks all summer long.

And don’t forget to enter Martin’s Summer Fun Season Sweepstakes—because great food, exciting prizes, and shared moments turn ordinary days into something memorable.

https://www.martinssummerfun.com/

 

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