When it comes to summer meals, a delicious side dish can really elevate the experience. From fresh salads to grilled vegetables, there are so many options to choose from. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a picnic at the park, these 20 summery side dishes are sure to impress your guests.
If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, try a watermelon salad with feta cheese and mint. The combination of juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and fresh herbs creates the perfect balance of flavors. Or, for a twist on a classic coleslaw, make a tangy Asian slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing. The vibrant colors and crunchy texture make it a crowd-pleaser.
For those who love the smoky taste of grilled vegetables, grilled corn on the cob is a must-try. Brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with spices, it’s a simple yet flavorful side dish. Another grilled favorite is vegetable skewers. Thread chunks of bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms onto skewers, then brush with a marinade and grill until tender. Serve alongside your main dish for a colorful and healthy addition to your meal.
| Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint | Asian Slaw | Grilled Corn on the Cob | Vegetable Skewers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light and refreshing | Tangy and crunchy | Smoky and flavorful | Colorful and healthy |
These are just a few examples of the many summery side dishes that you can add to your summer menu. Whether you prefer light salads, grilled vegetables, or classic favorites, there’s something for everyone’s taste. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a delicious summer meal with these 20 side dish options.
The Deliciousness of Grilled Corn Salad
One of the key ingredients in grilled corn salad is, of course, grilled corn. The corn is charred on the grill, which enhances its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Once the corn is grilled and cooled, the kernels are cut off the cob and mixed with various vegetables and herbs. Common additions to grilled corn salad include juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, creamy avocado, and tangy red onion.
The combination of flavors in grilled corn salad is perfectly balanced. The sweetness of the grilled corn complements the acidity of the tomatoes, while the creamy avocado adds richness and the red onion adds a bite. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil add a burst of freshness and elevate the overall taste of the salad.
If you’re looking for a refreshing and light side dish to accompany grilled meats or other summer dishes, grilled corn salad is a fantastic option. It can be served as a standalone salad or as a topping for tacos, nachos, or grilled meats. The versatility of this dish makes it a crowd-pleaser at barbecues, picnics, and any summer gathering.
Watermelon Feta Salad
To make Watermelon Feta Salad, start by cutting a seedless watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Place the watermelon cubes in a large bowl and add crumbled feta cheese. The feta cheese adds a creamy and salty element to the salad, complementing the sweetness of the watermelon.
- 1 seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
In addition to the watermelon and feta cheese, you can also add other ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Some popular additions include fresh mint leaves, chopped cucumber, red onion slices, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Once all the ingredients are in the bowl, gently toss them together to ensure that the watermelon and feta cheese are evenly distributed. You can serve the Watermelon Feta Salad immediately or refrigerate it for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 seedless watermelon, cubed | 1. Cut watermelon into bite-sized cubes. |
| 1 cup crumbled feta cheese | 2. Place watermelon cubes in a large bowl and add feta cheese. |
Watermelon Feta Salad is not only delicious, but it is also a healthy and hydrating option for hot summer days. Watermelon is made up of about 92% water, making it a great choice for staying hydrated. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant that promotes heart health.
So next time you’re looking for a refreshing side dish to accompany your summer meals, give Watermelon Feta Salad a try. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone, and it’s so easy to make!
Caprese Skewers
To make caprese skewers, you will need fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, balsamic glaze, and skewers. Start by threading a tomato onto a skewer, followed by a basil leaf and a mozzarella ball. Repeat this process until you have used all of the ingredients, then drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
The combination of flavors in caprese skewers is absolutely delightful. The juicy cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness, while the creamy mozzarella adds a rich and smooth texture. The fresh basil leaves bring a herbaceous note that complements the other ingredients perfectly. And the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to tie everything together.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh mozzarella balls | 1 package |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 pint |
| Fresh basil leaves | A handful |
| Balsamic glaze | To taste |
Caprese skewers are not only delicious, but they also make for an eye-catching presentation. The colorful combination of red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil creates a visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your guests. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, caprese skewers are a tasty and refreshing addition to any summer menu.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
The star of this salad is the combination of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes. These two ingredients provide a wonderful contrast in texture and taste. The cucumbers add a refreshing crunch, while the tomatoes provide a juicy sweetness. When paired together, they create a perfect balance.
To make this salad, start by slicing the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Then, thinly slice the onions and chop the herbs. Combine everything in a bowl and toss gently to mix. You can also add some feta cheese or olives for added flavor.
For the dressing, a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs works best. The tangy and fresh flavors of the dressing complement the crispness of the cucumbers and the sweetness of the tomatoes. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
This cucumber tomato salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, as a topping for sandwiches or wraps, or even as a light and refreshing lunch on its own. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it the perfect addition to any summer meal.
