Summer dishes are an absolute delight!
With all the fresh produce in season, summer salads become a canvas for creativity. From vibrant herbs to juicy tomatoes, sweet summer squash, and crisp sweet corn, the possibilities are endless!
It’s the perfect time to experiment with new flavors and textures for delightful culinary combinations!
When it comes to easy side dishes for summer cookouts and backyard barbecues, the options are abundant!
Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ or a simple family meal, there’s something on this list that will surely please everyone.
These dishes are the perfect accompaniment to classic hot dogs and juicy burgers, as well as other main courses like steaks, pork chops, or chicken.
Plus, many of these delicious sides can be prepared in advance, making mealtime a breeze!
From creamy fruit salads to refreshing green salads, and even unique options like Mediterranean potato salad, this list has a side dish for every occasion.
These recipes are not only ideal for large gatherings such as Memorial Day or 4th of July parties but also perfect for cozy outdoor cookouts or your next family dinner.
Let’s savor the flavors of summer together!
Potato-Based Dishes
As you’re planning your summer cookout, you’ll want to include some delicious potato-based dishes to complement your BBQ favorites.
You’ll love the variety of options that await you, from classic salads to crispy, cheesy potatoes that are sure to please.
Get ready to discover your new favorite side dishes!
Mediterranean Potato Salad
Your summer cookout just got a whole lot more revitalizing with the addition of this Mediterranean Potato Salad, bursting with the bold flavors of Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
You’ll love the tangy dressing and rejuvenating herbs that bring this dish to life.
It’s a perfect side that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Crispy Greek Fingerling Potatoes
You’ll elevate your BBQ game with Crispy Greek Fingerling Potatoes, which burst with zesty Mediterranean flavors and satisfying crunch. Simply toss fingerling potatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then roast until crispy.
You’ll love the addictive combination of tangy feta, fresh parsley, and a hint of red pepper flakes in every bite.
BBQ Red Potato Salad
In the midst of summer, a invigorating BBQ Red Potato Salad is just what you need to complement your grilled favorites.
You’ll love the creamy dressing, tangy BBQ sauce, and smoky flavor that brings this potato salad to life.
Simply boil diced red potatoes, mix with mayonnaise, chopped herbs, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce, and you’re ready to impress!
Jalapeno Popper Cheesy Potatoes
Take your potato game to the next level with Jalapeno Popper Cheesy Potatoes, a spicy twist on traditional potato dishes that combines the creamy richness of cheese with the bold kick of jalapenos.
You’ll love the crispy baked potatoes filled with a cheesy jalapeno mixture, perfect for a summer cookout.
Give it a try and impress your friends!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
As the scent of sizzling burgers and hot dogs fills the air, Garlic Mashed Potatoes provide a comforting, creamy contrast to the smoky, savory flavors of your summer cookout.
You’ll love how the pungency of garlic enhances the richness of butter and milk in these fluffy, velvety spuds.
Simply boil diced potatoes until tender, then mash with roasted garlic, butter, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Grilled Vegetables and Fruits
Now it’s time to fire up the grill and get creative with some delicious and healthy options!
You’ll love serving up grilled vegetables and fruits that aren’t only flavorful but also visually appealing.
From colorful skewers to smoky asparagus, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in the following ideas to elevate your summer cookout.
Grilled Asparagus
Brushing asparagus spears with olive oil and seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before grilling brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor. You’ll love the tender, slightly charred result!
Simply grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Grilled Summer Vegetable Salad
You can elevate your summer cookout with a colorful Grilled Summer Vegetable Salad, featuring an array of colorful vegetables and fruits, perfectly charred to bring out their natural sweetness.
Simply brush your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender.
Grilled Shrimp Kebobs
Thread cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and pineapple chunks onto skewers with marinated shrimp for a sweet and savory Grilled Shrimp Kebobs dish that’s sure to impress at your summer cookout.
You’ll love the combination of flavors and textures in each bite.
Simply brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Rainbow Veggie Skewers
Color your summer cookout with Rainbow Veggie Skewers, a vibrant and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with your grilled shrimp kebobs.
You’ll love the combination of cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, marinated in olive oil and grilled to perfection.
Simply thread your favorite veggies onto skewers and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Zucchini Skewers
Marinate sliced zucchini in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs. Grill them to tender perfection alongside sweet fruits like pineapple and peaches.
You’ll love the smoky flavor and tender texture of these healthy skewers.
Try pairing them with an invigorating side salad or a crunchy coleslaw for a well-rounded BBQ spread.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
You’ll elevate your summer cookout with grilled corn on the cob, slathered in a mixture of butter, lime juice, and spices, and perfectly charred to bring out the natural sweetness.
Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
Slather with the butter mixture during the last minute of grilling.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Grilled Peaches
As you move beyond the savory flavors of grilled corn, why not treat your guests to a sweet and surprising twist – grilled peaches, caramelized to perfection and infused with a hint of smokiness?
Simply brush sliced peaches with olive oil, season with cinnamon and nutmeg, and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
Grilled Corn Fritters
Take your grilled corn to the next level by transforming it into crispy, golden-brown fritters, packed with sweet corn kernels, onions, and a hint of spice.
You’ll be amazed at how easily these bite-sized treats come together. Simply mix corn, flour, eggs, and spices, shape into patties, and grill until golden.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Grill up some colorful bell peppers and fill them with a mix of savory ingredients, and you’ll have a side dish that’s both healthy and visually appealing.
You can fill them with a mix of quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese for a flavorful and nutritious option that pairs perfectly with your summer BBQ.
Salads and Fresh Sides
As you’re planning your summer cookout, don’t forget to add some fresh and invigorating sides to the mix!
A cool and creamy salad or a light and crunchy side dish can provide a perfect contrast to the richness of your BBQ favorites.
From classic combinations to creative twists, you’ll find a variety of salads and fresh sides to impress your guests, including Cowboy Caviar, Watermelon Feta Salad, and more!
Cowboy Caviar
You’ll be the star of the summer cookout with a bowl of Cowboy Caviar, a flavorful and invigorating salad that’s ridiculously easy to prepare.
This Texas-inspired mix of black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro is a revitalizing twist on traditional BBQ sides.
Simply combine the ingredients and let the flavors meld together – it’s that easy!
Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon’s sweetness pairs perfectly with the salty tang of crumbled feta in this revitalizing summer salad that’s as simple to prepare as it’s to devour.
You’ll love combining diced watermelon, crumbled feta, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
This invigorating salad is a perfect side dish for your summer cookout, and it’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Classic Cobb Salad
This classic Cobb salad, loaded with crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and creamy avocado, will be the star of your summer cookout.
You’ll love the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Simply combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled blue cheese, then top with your favorite ingredients for an invigorating side dish that’s sure to impress!
Caprese Salad
Fresh from the garden, vibrant tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony in a Caprese salad that’s as easy to prepare as it’s impressive to serve.
You’ll love the simplicity of this Italian-inspired dish, which requires only a few ingredients and no cooking.
Simply slice, arrange, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for a delicious side dish.
Cucumber Pomegranate Salad
As you combine thinly sliced cucumbers, juicy pomegranate seeds, and a tangy drizzle of lemon-tahini dressing, the crunch and coolness of this invigorating salad will transport you to a summer oasis.
The revitalizing flavors will quench your thirst for something light and revitalizing.
This salad is a perfect side dish for your summer cookout, offering a delightful contrast to rich BBQ flavors.
Mango Pico de Gallo
Swap the coolness of cucumbers for the sweetness of mango, and experience a flavor explosion in your summer cookout with Mango Pico de Gallo, a twist on the classic Mexican salsa.
You’ll love the combination of juicy mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice.
Fresh and fruity, this salsa is perfect for topping grilled meats or veggies.
Old Fashioned Creamy Fruit Salad
Combine the sweetness of grapes, the tang of pineapple, and the crunch of apple in Old Fashioned Creamy Fruit Salad, a classic summer side dish that’s sure to please at your backyard bash.
You’ll love the creamy dressing that brings it all together. Simply mix, chill, and serve – it’s that easy!
Coleslaw and Slaws
When it comes to coleslaw and slaws, you’re in for a treat! These creamy, crunchy, and invigorating side dishes are the perfect complement to your summer cookout.
Let’s explore two unique twists on the classic coleslaw: Mango Avocado Coleslaw and Easy Pineapple Coleslaw, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Mango Avocado Coleslaw
As you fire up the grill, invigorate your summer cookout with a sweet and tangy Mango Avocado Coleslaw that’s bursting with tropical flavors.
You’ll love the creamy avocado and juicy mango mixed with crispy red cabbage, crunchy pecans, and a hint of lime juice.
This revitalizing side dish is perfect for hot summer days and pairs perfectly with your favorite BBQ dishes.
Easy Pineapple Coleslaw
You’ll add a delightful twist to your BBQ lineup with an Easy Pineapple Coleslaw that’s as invigorating as a tropical getaway.
This dish features juicy pineapple chunks, crunchy red cabbage, and a hint of citrus zing.
Simply combine shredded cabbage, pineapple, and a zesty dressing for a revitalizing side dish that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Enjoy the refreshing flavors of this pineapple coleslaw as a complement to your grilled favorites, bringing a burst of tropical sweetness to your outdoor gatherings.
Other Tasty Appetizers
While you’re organizing your summer cookout, you’ll want to contemplate some delicious appetizers to get the party started.
You’ve got a variety of tasty options to choose from, and we’re about to explore some of the most mouth-watering ones.
From creamy pasta salads to crunchy veggie wraps, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your gathering!
Yellow Squash Casserole
In the midst of a sizzling summer cookout, a revitalizing side dish like yellow squash casserole provides a delightful contrast to the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ.
You’ll love the tender squash, crispy crackers, and gooey cheese that meld together in perfect harmony.
This invigorating casserole is an ideal accompaniment to your summer cookout menu.
Hatch Green Chile Mac and Cheese
Spice up your summer cookout with Hatch Green Chile Mac and Cheese, a creamy, dreamy side dish that will leave your guests begging for the recipe.
You’ll love the subtle kick from the roasted Hatch green chiles, perfectly balanced with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
It’s a game-changer for your BBQ spread!
Bacon Blue Cheese Pasta Salad
You’ll elevate your BBQ game with Bacon Blue Cheese Pasta Salad, a rejuvenating twist on traditional pasta salads that’s packed with crispy bacon, tangy blue cheese, and a hint of freshness from chopped parsley.
This salad’s creamy, smoky flavors will delight your guests. Simply cook pasta, whisk together a zesty dressing, and combine with crumbled bacon and blue cheese.
Veggie Pinwheel Tortilla Rollups
Roll up a flavorful and healthy snack with Veggie Pinwheel Tortilla Rollups, which burst with fresh veggies and a hint of creaminess.
You’ll love the colorful mix of shredded carrots, zucchini, and spinach, all wrapped in a soft tortilla and topped with a dollop of hummus.
Serve chilled and slice into pinwheels for an invigorating summer snack.
