As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, it’s the perfect time to enhance your meals with vibrant, refreshing sides that complement your main courses beautifully.
Planning a backyard barbecue, a casual picnic, or a sophisticated dinner party? Having a repertoire of delicious summer sides is essential.
Ready to discover some new favorites? Let’s dive into a collection of summer side dishes that are sure to impress!
Recipes
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob
This simple yet delightful dish brings out the natural sweetness of corn, enhanced with a hint of smoky flavor from the grill. Picture golden ears of corn, perfectly charred and dripping with melted butter, sprinkled with a dash of salt and pepper. It’s a classic side that pairs beautifully with almost anything from the grill, making it a staple for BBQs and picnics.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill
No. of Ingredients: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush each ear of corn with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally, for about 15 minutes until charred and tender.
- Remove from the grill and serve hot.
Serve with: Grilled meats, such as steak or chicken, or a fresh green salad.
Drink with: Iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer.
2. Caprese Salad
Experience the taste of Italy with a fresh Caprese Salad! This elegant dish combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. It’s a burst of summer on your plate, perfect for those hot days when you want something light and refreshing yet full of flavor.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: None
No. of Ingredients: 5
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter, alternating them.
- Tuck basil leaves between the slices.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
Serve with: Crusty bread or as a side to grilled chicken.
Drink with: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light rosé.
3. Watermelon Feta Salad
Celebrate summer with the refreshing contrast of sweet and savory in Watermelon Feta Salad. Crisp watermelon chunks are tossed with tangy feta cheese and fresh mint, creating a vibrant, colorful dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Perfect for picnics, this salad is a refreshing escape from the usual.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: None
No. of Ingredients: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine watermelon and feta.
- Sprinkle with chopped mint.
- Drizzle with lime juice and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Serve with: Grilled shrimp or chicken.
Drink with: Sparkling water with a twist of lime or a chilled Riesling.
4. Classic Coleslaw
Add a crunchy, creamy delight to your meal with Classic Coleslaw. This beloved side dish features finely shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s the perfect accompaniment to BBQ dishes, providing a refreshing contrast to smoky, rich flavors.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Side
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, shredded
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Serve with: Pulled pork sandwiches or grilled burgers.
Drink with: A cold, refreshing lager or iced tea.
5. Cucumber Salad
Cool and crisp, Cucumber Salad is a refreshing addition to any meal. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed with a light vinaigrette made of vinegar, dill, and a hint of sugar, creating a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: European
Equipment: Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 5
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Add cucumber slices and toss to coat.
- Let sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serve with: Grilled salmon or chicken.
Drink with: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or iced green tea.
6. Pasta Salad
This vibrant Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Packed with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a zesty dressing, it’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for picnics and potlucks, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Pot, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pasta (any shape), cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.
Serve with: Grilled chicken or as a side for BBQ ribs.
Drink with: Lemonade or a chilled rosé.
7. Greek Salad
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with a vibrant Greek Salad. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese come together with briny olives and red onions, all dressed in a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing. It’s a refreshing and hearty salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Greek
Equipment: Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 8
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 4 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Serve with: Grilled lamb or pita bread.
Drink with: A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko.
8. Baked Beans
A BBQ staple, Baked Beans are rich, savory, and slightly sweet, making them the perfect side for any grilled meat. Slow-cooked with a blend of spices, these beans are hearty and flavorful, adding a comforting touch to your meal.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Course: Side
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Oven-safe dish
No. of Ingredients: 7
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked beans (any variety)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In an oven-safe dish, combine beans, brown sugar, ketchup, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and bake for 1 hour until thick and bubbly.
- Serve hot.
Serve with: BBQ ribs or grilled hot dogs.
Drink with: Root beer or a robust red wine like Zinfandel.
9. Potato Salad
Creamy and comforting, Potato Salad is a classic side dish perfect for any occasion. Tender potatoes are mixed with crunchy celery, tangy pickles, and hard-boiled eggs, all brought together with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It’s a dish that’s sure to please at picnics and barbecues.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Side
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Pot, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 7
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup pickles, chopped
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine potatoes, celery, pickles, and eggs.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over potato mixture and toss to coat.
- Chill before serving.
Serve with: Fried chicken or burgers.
Drink with: A cold glass of iced tea or a crisp lager.
10. Fruit Salad
This mix of fresh, juicy fruits is not only delicious but also a healthy option. A drizzle of honey and a squeeze of lime juice elevate the natural sweetness of the fruit, making it an irresistible treat for any meal.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Dessert/Side
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups blueberries
- 2 cups pineapple, cubed
- 2 cups grapes, halved
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and grapes.
- Drizzle with honey and lime juice.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Serve with: Yogurt or as a side for brunch dishes.
Drink with: Sparkling water or a fruity sangria.
11. Grilled Vegetables
Enhance your grilling repertoire with an array of Grilled Vegetables. This colorful medley includes bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and more, all lightly seasoned and charred to perfection. It’s a simple yet delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Grill
No. of Ingredients: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill vegetables, turning occasionally, until tender and charred, about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Serve with: Grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Drink with: A chilled glass of rosé or iced herbal tea.
12. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa Salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s a wholesome and satisfying option. This versatile salad can be enjoyed as a side or a light main course.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: International
Equipment: Pot, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Serve with: Grilled chicken or fish.
Drink with: A glass of chilled white wine or lemon-infused water.
13. Three Bean Salad
Three Bean Salad is a vibrant and tangy side dish that’s perfect for picnics and potlucks. A mix of kidney beans, green beans, and chickpeas are tossed with a zesty vinaigrette, creating a flavorful and nutritious salad that’s easy to make and delightful to eat.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 7
Ingredients:
- 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup green beans, blanched and cooled
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine kidney beans, green beans, chickpeas, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over bean mixture and toss to coat.
- Chill before serving.
Serve with: Grilled sausages or chicken.
Drink with: Lemonade or a light beer.
14. Deviled Eggs
Deviled Eggs are a classic appetizer that’s always a hit at gatherings. Creamy and tangy, these bite-sized treats are made by filling hard-boiled egg whites with a rich yolk mixture seasoned with mustard and a hint of paprika. They’re perfect for any occasion, from picnics to holiday parties.
Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Pot, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 5
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika for garnish
Instructions:
- Boil eggs for 10 minutes, then cool and peel.
- Halve the eggs lengthwise and remove yolks.
- In a bowl, mash yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into egg whites.
- Sprinkle with paprika and serve.
Serve with: Crackers or a fresh green salad.
Drink with: Sparkling water or a light white wine.
15. Tomato Basil Salad
Tomato Basil Salad is a fresh and fragrant dish that captures the essence of summer. Juicy tomatoes are paired with aromatic basil and a simple balsamic dressing, creating a delightful salad that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a light and healthy option that’s bursting with flavor.
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: None
No. of Ingredients: 5
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange tomato slices on a platter.
- Tuck basil leaves between the slices.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
Serve with: Fresh mozzarella or as a side to grilled chicken.
Drink with: A glass of chilled rosé or sparkling water.
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