Summer side dishes are a requirement for every weekend gathering this time of year. Give me fresh produce, simple ingredients, and recipes that come together without heating up the kitchen, and I’m happy. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ or heading to a potluck these healthy summer side dishes are always a hit.
Why You’ll Love These Summer Side Dishes
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Easy to prep ahead
- Perfect for BBQs, cookouts, and picnics
- Healthy, flavorful, and family-friendly
- Many are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
Corn and Tomato Summer Salad
This corn and tomato salad is one of those simple summer recipes that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Sweet charred corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a fresh cilantro lime dressing come together for a colorful side dish that’s perfect for cookouts.
Crunchy Peanut Cabbage Salad
Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this crunchy peanut cabbage salad is one of those recipes I can’t stop making. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper gives it an irresistible crunch. Peanuts, and a creamy sesame peanut dressing add protein and healthy fats that help keep you full.
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Whipped Feta & Hot Honey
This roasted sweet potatoes side dish checks every box — sweet, salty, crispy, creamy. These easy oven-roasted sweet potatoes get golden and caramelized in the oven. The tangy whipped feta is insanely delicious with a drizzle of hot honey and a satisfying crunch from toasted almonds or pepitas.
Homemade Jo Jos (Potato Wedges) with Fry Sauce
This healthy oven-baked potato wedges are gluten-free and dairy-free, so you can still get that crave-worthy crunch without the deep fryer. One of the best summer side dishes!
Easy Grilled Pesto Zucchini with Goat Cheese & Pine Nuts
You know I can’t help myself when it’s zucchini season. Now zucchini and fresh basil are both at their peak, you have to add this to your menu. Tender, charred zucchini gets tossed in a bright, nutty homemade basil pesto, then finished with toasted pine nuts and creamy goat cheese for the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish.
Healthy Fried Zucchini Blossoms
These Healthy Fried Zucchini Blossoms are one of my favorite summer recipes—light, crispy, and made with just a few simple, wholesome ingredients. If you’ve ever come across delicate zucchini flowers at the farmer’s market or in your garden and wondered how to cook them, this is it.
Mom’s Famous Potato Salad (Mayo-Free!)
It’s funny because whenever I think of my childhood, I think of this exact recipe. It’s one we had all the time, and it truly never got old. Still doesn’t! I’m so obsessed, I had to steal the recipe from my mom, obviously, and give her all the credit she deserves. Earning a rightful spot in my first cookbook, Rachael’s Good Eats, it only made sense to also give it space on the blog.
Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe with Feta & Cucumber
This easy watermelon salad recipe is one of the most refreshing and colorful summer salads you can make — ready in just minutes and perfect for BBQs, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Juicy watermelon cubes are paired with crisp cucumber, fresh mint and basil, creamy feta, a splash of lime, and optional jalapeño for a bright, bold flavor.
Mango Pico de Gallo
A perfect addition to your next taco night or appetizer spread. This mango pico is a big bowl of happiness no matter where or when you serve it. This summer side dish is one recipe that you truly cannot go wrong with.
Greek Feta Fries
Fries are obviously an incredibly popular side dish, but I’m telling you, putting the Mediterranean spin on them is a power move you won’t regret. The EVOO, flaky sea salt, slightly-tangy crumbled feta, and herby oregano all sprinkled on top truly make these Greek Feta Fries chef’s kiss.
