The Best Summer Side Dishes for BBQs, Picnics, and More

These sides are built for sunshine and shared meals. Fresh, colorful, and easy to prep, they pair perfectly with anything hot off the grill. Great for feeding a crowd or rounding out dinner on the patio. You’ll want to bring these to every summer gathering.

Vidalia Onion Pie

Savory Vidalia onion pie with a golden, flaky crust.
Vidalia Onion Pie. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Vidalia Onion Pie is a classic southern side dish. Get the easy recipe for the best savory pie made with sweet onion and cheddar cheese.
Get the Recipe: Vidalia Onion Pie

Sweet and Tangy Sauerkraut Salad: A Perfect Summer Side Dish

Sauerkraut salad with red peppers and shredded carrots.
Sweet and Tangy Sauerkraut Salad: A Perfect Summer Side Dish. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Sauerkraut Salad is a delicious side dish perfect for a summer barbecue, picnic, or potluck.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Tangy Sauerkraut Salad: A Perfect Summer Side Dish

Cheesy Mexican Squash (Calabacitas)

Calabacitas with zucchini, corn, and diced tomatoes in a skillet.
Cheesy Mexican Squash (Calabacitas). Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican squash, a delicious dish featuring tender squash sautéed with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic spices for a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mexican Squash (Calabacitas)

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan and Rosemary

Roasted sweet potato wedges garnished with herbs.
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan and Rosemary. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Enjoy the crispy perfection of air fryer sweet potato cubes, featuring tender sweet potato cubes tossed in olive oil and seasonings, air-fried to golden-brown deliciousness for a healthy and flavorful side dish or snack that’s perfect for any meal. This easy-to-make recipe promises irresistibly crispy sweet potato cubes with a soft and creamy interior, offering a guilt-free alternative to traditional fried potatoes that will satisfy your cravings and add a pop of color and flavor to your plate
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan and Rosemary

Broccoli Rice Casserole

Creamy broccoli rice casserole topped with melted cheese.
Broccoli Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Life Currents.

This Broccoli Rice Casserole can be served as a side dish or a vegetarian main dish. We always have it at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. It’s classic creamy, cheesy comfort food at its best.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole

Kidney Bean Salad

Kidney bean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
Kidney Bean Salad. Photo credit: Life Currents.

This simple Kidney Bean Salad recipe with homemade red wine vinaigrette dressing uses protein-packed kidney beans, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella, then it’s garnished with sliced almonds and parsley for a wonderful side dish that’s filled with beautiful textures and bright fresh flavors. It’s the perfect light healthy lunch or tasty side!
Get the Recipe: Kidney Bean Salad

Cauliflower Gratin

Cauliflower gratin with a golden breadcrumb topping.
Cauliflower Gratin. Photo credit: Stetted.

Cauliflower is transformed into an irresistible cheesy side dish in this cauliflower gratin recipe. Don’t skip the buttery panko topping!
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Gratin

Cheesy Polenta

Creamy cheesy polenta served in a white bowl.
Cheesy Polenta. Photo credit: Stetted.

An easy and versatile side dish, this creamy, cheesy polenta recipe always satisfies! Pair it with your favorite mains for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Polenta

Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips

Roasted carrots and parsnips glazed with honey.
Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips are an easy side dish your family will love. Carrots and parsnips roasted with honey, and topped with glazed pecans!
Get the Recipe: Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips

Instant Pot Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps

Low carb chicken tacos in lettuce wraps with colorful toppings.
Instant Pot Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Instant Pot chicken taco lettuce wraps are keto-friendly and really tasty. Pair them with your favorite toppings and side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Taco Lettuce Wraps

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Stacked sweet potato casserole rounds with a marshmallow topping.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer sweet potato casserole stacks made a delicious side dish. This sliced yam casserole is a breeze to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist)

Silky mashed potatoes with an Asian-inspired creamy twist.
Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

These Asian mashed potatoes offer a creamy texture with a savory twist, featuring soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. The fusion of classic comfort and bold flavors makes them a standout side dish. Ideal for pairing with any Asian-inspired main course or for adding variety to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist)

Garlic Chive Flowers Recipe: Stir Fry With Chicken

Garlic chive flowers stir-fried with tender chicken pieces.
Garlic Chive Flowers Recipe: Stir Fry With Chicken. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

This recipe highlights the delicate flavor of garlic chive flowers stir-fried simply with seasonings to let their natural taste shine. The dish is light, aromatic, and perfect for spring or summer meals. A great way to enjoy a lesser-known, nutrient-rich ingredient.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chive Flowers Recipe: Stir Fry With Chicken

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