Summer is the season of sun, fun, and fantastic food. While barbecues and grilled mains often steal the spotlight, it's the sides that truly complete a meal.
This article explores ten easy and delicious side dishes that are perfect for any summer gathering. From refreshing salads to savory bread, these recipes promise to delight your taste buds and add a splash of flavor to your outdoor feasts. Whether you're hosting a family barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner on the patio, these summer sides are quick, easy, and absolutely delectable.
Nothing says summer like a crisp, refreshing cucumber salad. Start with fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced, for maximum flavor absorption. Add sliced red onions for a sharp contrast and dill for a herby touch. For the dressing, mix olive oil, white vinegar, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper.
Toss everything together and let it chill in the fridge. This salad is a hydrating and light accompaniment to any heavy BBQ dish, balancing out richer flavors with its cool and tangy profile.
Garlic bread is a timeless classic and a crowd-pleaser. Begin with a loaf of good-quality bread, preferably a ciabatta or baguette, for the perfect crust-to-softness ratio. Mix softened butter with crushed garlic, chopped parsley, and a bit of salt, then spread generously on the bread slices. Bake until golden and crispy.
For a delightful twist, try serving this garlic bread with a side of some blistered cherry tomatoes. You can check out this 5 minute blistered cherry tomatoes recipe that is as delicious as it is easy. The sweetness of the juicy tomatoes complements the crunchy, savory bread beautifully, making for a combination that's hard to resist.
Summer and grilled corn on the cob are a match made in heaven. Preheat your grill and brush your corn with a mixture of melted butter, salt, and pepper. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until it's cooked through and has charred spots. For an extra kick, sprinkle some smoked paprika or grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
This side dish is not just delicious but also brings a fun, hands-on experience to your summer meals.
Potato salad is a staple at any summer gathering, but this zesty lemon version adds a refreshing twist. Boil potatoes until tender and cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Pour this zesty dressing over the warm potatoes and gently mix. The lemon gives a tangy lift to the creamy potatoes, making this dish a flavorful yet comforting side.
A side of sweet and spicy baked beans can transform any summer meal into a feast. Start with canned beans for convenience, and add a rich sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and a dash of hot sauce for heat. Bake until the sauce is thick and the flavors meld together.
These baked beans are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy, offering a hearty complement to grilled meats or vegetables.
Coleslaw is the quintessential summer side, and this tangy version is a refreshing change from the usual. Shred green cabbage and carrots for crunch, and add thinly sliced red onions for a bit of bite. The dressing is a simple mix of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, a spoonful of sugar, and a dash of mustard for zest. Toss everything together and chill before serving.
This coleslaw brings a vibrant and crunchy addition to your summer table, pairing wonderfully with grilled meats or as a topping for burgers.
These Caprese skewers are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mini mozzarella balls onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the sweet tang of balsamic is a true taste of summer. Not only are these skewers incredibly easy to make, but they also add a touch of elegance to any gathering.
This herbed quinoa salad is a light and nutritious addition to any summer meal. Cook one cup of quinoa in two cups of water or vegetable broth. Once cooked, let it cool. Then, mix in halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and generous handfuls of chopped parsley and mint. Dress the salad with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This salad is not only healthful but also packed with vibrant flavors, making it a perfect side for those warm summer days.
A chilled fruit salad is the perfect antidote to a hot summer day. Combine a variety of seasonal fruits like watermelon, berries, pineapple, and peaches for a colorful and healthy side. Add a splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh mint for an extra refreshing touch. This fruit salad is not only a palate cleanser but also offers a sweet, hydrating, and nutritious option that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
This creamy avocado dip is a versatile and delicious side that pairs well with chips and veggies or as a spread on sandwiches. Mash ripe avocados and mix with lime juice, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. The richness of the avocado, combined with the freshness of lime and cilantro, creates a dip that is both indulgent and refreshing. It's a guaranteed hit at any summer gathering.
Summer is a time for relaxation, fun, and, of course, great food. These ten easy and delicious summer sides are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a simple meal on your back porch. They're designed to be straightforward and quick to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the sunshine and good company.
So, next time you're planning a summer meal, remember these sides and enjoy the flavors of the season to the fullest.
