Placing health at the forefront of our minds during the warmer months can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. In fact, with a little creativity, we can indulge in delicious foods that also nourish our bodies. This article explores healthier side dish options that are perfect for outdoor gatherings and picnics, packed with seasonal produce and nutrients.
From revitalizing salads and refreshing fruit salsas to grilled vegetables bursting with smoky flavor, these recipes cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs, making them ideal for any summer event, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a casual outing at the park.
Hasselback Potato Gratin
Elevating the humble spud to new heights, this hasselback potato gratin brings together the signature Hasselback technique with the rich flavors of a traditional potato gratin. The result is a dish that is surprisingly easy to prepare and yet, undeniably decadent in its creamy, cheesy goodness.
Sheet Pan Hash Browns
Among all the popular breakfast dishes, homemade sheet pan hash browns have gained immense popularity due to their ease of preparation and mouth-watering taste. These delectable treats, made entirely from scratch, boast a perfectly crispy exterior that gives way to a tender interior.
Cheesy Garlic Crack Bread
Navigating the world of comfort foods can be a delightful experience, especially when you stumble upon recipes like this incredible cheesy garlic crack bread that is surprisingly fun and easy to make. This mouthwatering treat is stuffed with a blend of melted cheese, savory garlic, and caramelized onions, all perfectly balanced to create an irresistible combination.
The key to its addictive nature lies in the simplicity of its preparation process – simply mix, pour into a baking dish, and let the oven do its magic until it’s golden brown and steaming hot.
Apple Coleslaw
Making a delicious and refreshing side dish has never been easier than with this creamy apple coleslaw recipe. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but the combination of sweet, crunchy apples, tangy cabbage, and smooth creaminess from the dressing creates a truly irresistible flavor profile that’s sure to complement any meal perfectly.
The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the slight bitterness of the cabbage, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Corn On The Cob In The Oven
Yellowing slightly from its natural sweetness, oven-roasted corn has become my go-to way of preparing this delicious vegetable. Roasting corn on the cob in the oven is a surprisingly simple process that unlocks its full flavor potential. Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet or just looking for a tasty alternative to traditional cooking methods, oven-roasted corn is a great option. And with minimal effort required, it’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Perfect Seasoned Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Brimming with the flavors of the season, roasted sweet potatoes are a perfect fall side dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or cooking for yourself, these roasted sweet potatoes can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week, making them a convenient and tasty addition to your meal routine.
Spiced Sweet Potato Fries
Elevating your weeknight meals has never been easier with these delicious Oven Roasted Spiced Sweet Potato Fries. Not only are they a great addition to any meal, but they also cater to various dietary needs – gluten free, paleo, whole30, and vegan compliant. With their perfect balance of salty spices and the convenience of oven-baking, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Roasted Mini Potatoes Recipe
Versatility is one of the key reasons why Roasted Mini Potatoes have become a staple side dish in many households. These bite-sized potatoes are seasoned with just the right amount of garlic, salt, and pepper to bring out their natural flavors. When baked in the oven until golden brown and tender, they develop a crispy skin that gives way to a creamy interior, making them an excellent accompaniment to your favorite main dishes.
Grilled Zucchini
Versatility is key when it comes to cooking during the summer months, and one of the most popular and easy-to-prepare side dishes that showcases this versatility is Easy Grilled Zucchini with balsamic glaze. Not only is it a simple yet delicious way to utilize garden-fresh zucchini, but it’s also an excellent option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
Very Berry Avocado Salad
Summer just got a whole lot healthier with the introduction of this delicious Very Berry Avocado Salad, packed full of fresh fruit and ripe avocados that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just need a quick appetizer for your next gathering, this salad is an excellent choice due to its ease of preparation and versatility.
Low Carb Rainbow Asian Slaw
Not only is the low carb rainbow Asian slaw a perfect dish to enjoy during the warmer months due to its refreshing and light ingredients, but it also boasts an impressive nutritional profile with just 86 calories and 3.2g of net carbs per serving.
Healthy Yellow Summer Squash Casserole
Ripe with the flavors of summer, this easy-to-make Summer Squash Casserole is a perfect way to enjoy fresh yellow squash. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly convenient – simply prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Spinach Orzo Salad With White Beans
Revamping your summer menu, this spinach orzo salad with white beans is an incredibly easy and nutritious option. It’s packed with the vibrant flavors of freshly squeezed lemon juice and fragrant basil, making it a perfect accompaniment to any outdoor gathering or casual meal.
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad With Sour Cream Dressing
Achieving the perfect balance between cool and creamy is what makes this Creamy Cucumber Salad so delightful. It’s an ideal side dish recipe for your next summer barbecue or potluck with a light, tangy dressing that complements the freshness of the cucumbers perfectly.
Mediterranean Black Lentil Salad
Perfect for warm weather, this Mediterranean black lentil salad is a delightful and refreshing addition to any summer meal. The combination of feta cheese, crunchy red peppers, juicy cucumbers, and fresh spinach creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, making it an ideal side dish that also happens to be gluten-free.
Heirloom Tomato Salad
Brighten up your dinner table with this stunning Heirloom Tomato Salad, a masterpiece of freshness and flavor that’s ridiculously easy to prepare. This vibrant salad showcases an assortment of heirloom tomatoes in their natural colors, alongside a rich and aromatic garlicky vinaigrette that elevates the dish to new heights.
Simple Sautéed Swiss Chard
Honestly, there’s no need for a complicated recipe to bring out the best in Swiss Chard. This straightforward cooking method is not only effortless but also yields incredibly tasty results that are as nutrient-dense as they are delicious. What’s more, it just so happens to be suitable for vegans and those following low-carb diets.
Mediterranean Cobb Salad
Savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean, this classic Cobb Salad gets a delicious twist with an abundance of fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and protein-packed eggs. The best part? It’s ready to devour in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect solution for a quick yet satisfying summer meal.
Healthy No Mayo Potato Salad With Cucumber & Mint {Vegetarian}
Revitalize your summer gatherings with this refreshing twist on traditional potato salad, featuring a delightful combination of no-mayo goodness, crunchy cucumbers, and the invigorating zing of fresh mint. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a lighter, healthier option that’s still packed with flavor.
Lemon And Garlic Roasted Zucchini And Corn
With the warmth of summer comes an abundance of zucchinis and corn on the cob, making this Lemon and Garlic Roasted Zucchini and Corn a perfect side dish for outdoor gatherings or potlucks. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also boasts impressive flavors from the sweet corn, toasty garlic, and a hint of fresh lemon zest, making it a must-try for any vegetarian or vegan, gluten-free, and health-conscious individuals.
Low Calorie Pasta Salad {Low Cal, Gf, Vegan}
Making this Low Calorie Pasta Salad even more appealing is the abundance of fresh vegetables and chickpea pasta, carefully combined to create a dish that’s both light and healthy. The result is a tasty, gluten-free option for those seeking a satisfying pasta salad recipe.
Big Mac Salad Recipe (Cheeseburger Salad)
Here’s a healthy twist on your favorite fast food classic: this Big Mac salad recipe takes only 20 minutes to make and is a low-carb delight. Unlike traditional burgers, this cheeseburger salad packs all the flavors you crave without the guilt of excessive calories.
Simple Corn Succotash
Preparing a delicious and easy-to-make side dish, Simple Corn Succotash is a perfect combination of fresh sweet corn and either frozen lima beans or edamame. This quick 20-minute veggie side dish is ideal for any meal, and we encourage you to give it a try!
Berry Fruit Salad
Bursting with flavor and freshness, the best berry salad is an easy and healthy treat that’s impossible to resist. A deliciously light honey-lime dressing elevates this simple fruit salad recipe to new heights, making it perfect for a quick snack or light lunch.
Keto Cucumber Salad
Welcome the flavors of summer into your life with this incredibly easy-to-make Keto Cucumber Salad! This refreshing dish is perfect for hot days and outdoor gatherings alike. It’s not only delicious but also tailored to various dietary needs, making it an excellent choice for meal prep, picnics, cookouts, potlucks, and more. Plus, it adheres to keto, paleo, whole30, dairy-free, and gluten-free diets.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Watermelon And Cucumber Salad
Fresh from the garden, this Watermelon and Cucumber Salad is an ideal way to savor the flavors of a warm summer day, complemented perfectly by a crisp glass of wine. This nutritious salad features refreshing watermelon, crunchy cucumber, tangy feta cheese, creamy avocados, and fragrant mint leaves, making it an excellent option for those seeking gluten-free alternatives.
Skinny Watermelon Feta Salad
Summer gatherings just got a whole lot more delicious with the Skinny Watermelon Salad with Feta, perfect for potlucks at outdoor barbecues and parties. This refreshing dish is bursting with juicy chunks of watermelon, zesty fresh lime juice, crumbled salty feta cheese, and a hint of fragrant fresh mint, making it an ideal choice for those looking for gluten-free options.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Elevating the humble chickpea salad, this Mediterranean recipe is effortlessly prepared and bursts with an array of flavors that will transport you to the sun-kissed regions of the Mediterranean. Embracing the freshness of herbs, which add a seasonal twist, makes it a truly delightful dish. Its gluten-free nature only adds to its appeal.
Strawberry Feta Salad
Kick-starting the summer season with a refreshing twist, the Strawberry Feta Salad is an ideal choice for healthy eating. Its rich flavor profile and diverse texture are expertly balanced by combining baby kale’s earthy tone with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, crunchy pecans add a satisfying bite, while creamy feta provides a luxurious touch.
The simplicity of its ingredients, paired with a light drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette, will undoubtedly make this salad a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Pearl Couscous Salad With Roasted Asparagus And Chickpeas
Unlocking the flavors of the Mediterranean, this Israeli or Pearl Couscous Salad with its vibrant combination of roasted asparagus and chickpeas is an ideal accompaniment for summer gatherings, outdoor BBQs, potlucks, and meal prep!
Baked Mac And Cheese Recipe Two Ways (Macaroni And Cheese Casserole)
Zest for a delicious and comforting dish is a must-have for any foodie, and Baked Mac and Cheese certainly delivers. This incredible macaroni and cheese casserole boasts TWO distinct flavors that will elevate it to new heights, making it the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
How To Cook Asparagus: 4 Easy Ways
Zeroing in on a perfect side dish, learning how to cook asparagus is an essential skill for any home cook. With its delicate flavor and tender texture, it’s no wonder why this springtime vegetable has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet elegant accompaniment to your favorite meals or seeking to elevate your cooking game with a few new techniques, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll delve into four easy ways to cook asparagus, each one showcasing its versatility and ease of preparation: oven-roasting, sautéing, steaming, and blanching.
10 Minute Air Fryer Zucchini
Vastly underappreciated as a versatile vegetable, zucchini shines when prepared with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. This air fryer zucchini recipe is an ideal solution for anyone seeking to whip up a delectable, crunchy, and nutritious side dish in record time – we’re talking about just 10 minutes!
Buttered Noodles Recipe
Transforming simple ingredients into a mouth-watering meal, the perfect Buttered Noodles can be created by combining egg noodles, rich butter, and a subtle hint of garlic. This dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates, including those of picky eaters who demand only the best from their meals.
15 Minute Air Fryer Tater Tots
Honouring the simplicity of home cooking, these air fryer tater tots are a game-changer for anyone looking for a speedy yet satisfying side dish. With preparation time under 15 minutes and an impressive crunch that’s hard to resist, it’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in many households. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and delicious.
Honey Roasted Carrots
Everyone will love this simple yet delicious recipe for honey roasted carrots. The dish features whole carrots that are generously coated with a mixture of honey and aromatic spices before being roasted to perfection in the oven until they become tender and caramelized.
Scalloped Corn Recipe
Zest up your holiday menu with this scrumptious creamy and cheesy scalloped corn casserole that’s incredibly simple to prepare. It makes for a fantastic veggie side dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite, perfect for impressing your guests at any festive gathering.
Simple Warm German Potato Salad
Joining traditional German cuisine with modern twists, this potato salad recipe offers a deliciously simple solution for a quick yet healthy meal. By employing some clever shortcuts, we’ve managed to shave off valuable time from the cooking process, resulting in a dish that’s just as satisfying as it is effortless.
One of the key benefits of this recipe lies in its use of zero refined sugar and other healthier ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to cut down on unnecessary additives.
Lemon Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Known for its simplicity and flavor, Lemon Parmesan Roasted Broccoli has become a staple in many households. This baked broccoli side dish is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent addition to any meal. The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese creates a delicious and aromatic flavor that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try this recipe tonight and experience the magic of Lemon Parmesan Roasted Broccoli for yourself!
Simple Skillet Green Beans
Zeroing in on the essence of comfort food, these delectable skillet green beans are an ideal accompaniment to your summer meals. This uncomplicated one-pot recipe incorporates the pungency of garlic, the richness of olive oil, and a hint of spice to create a dish that’s not only mouth-watering but also perfectly aligned with vegan, paleo, and gluten-free dietary requirements.
Creamed Peas Recipe
Generally speaking, this recipe is one of the simplest yet most flavorful side dishes you can whip up in under half an hour. All it takes is some frozen peas to simmer in a lightly-seasoned cream sauce for just 15 minutes.
Healthy Zucchini Casserole
Rich in nutrients, this delicious zucchini casserole is a great option for those looking for a gluten-free and low-carb dish that can be easily prepared in just about 15 minutes. With its simplicity and flavor, it’s the perfect recipe to bring to your next potluck gathering.
Asian Pickled Red Onions
Taking inspiration from various Asian cuisines, pickled red onions have become a popular condiment, adding a tangy, slightly sweet, and deeply umami flavor to dishes. This simplicity makes them easy to prepare in just 10 minutes with only 5 essential ingredients.
7 Layer Salad
Outdoing the classic seven-layer salad, this simple side dish recipe packs a punch in terms of protein content. It’s loaded with an abundance of cheese, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a rich, creamy dressing that brings all the flavors together.
