Summer’s best kept secrets: 41 summer side dishes

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From vibrant salads bursting with seasonal flavors to grilled delights and refreshing accompaniments, get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the vibrant tastes of the sunniest season!

Marinated tomatoes in a yellow pie dish.
Marinated Heirloom Tomatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Elote Bowl

An elote bowl surrounded by cilantro, a halved lime, a white linen, and a glass of beer.
Elote Bowl. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Get ready to dive into the flavors of summer with this irresistible elote bowl, also known as esquites! Imagine charred Mexican street corn coated in creamy mayo, tangy cotija cheese, zesty lime juice, and a medley of spices. It’s all the goodness of elote without the mess!
Get the Recipe: Elote Bowl

Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash

Air fryer zucchini and summer squash on a navy blue plate.
Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Looking for a side dish that’s a breeze to make and perfect for summer? Look no further than this air fryer zucchini and squash recipe. Lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, these veggies cook in the air fryer until they achieve a delicious golden brown.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash

Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill

Beet cucumber salad with feta and dill on a pink plate.
Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Indulge in a delightful combination of sweet, savory, earthy, tangy, and salty flavors with this beet and cucumber salad. Imagine crunchy cucumbers, tender cooked beets, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette coming together to create a salad that will satisfy all your cravings!
Get the Recipe: Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill

Orzo Pesto Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Pesto orzo salad on two black plates.
Orzo Pesto Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Prepare your taste buds for a flavor explosion with this pesto orzo salad recipe. Picture vibrant basil pesto sauce, creamy feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, toasty pine nuts, and fresh, peppery arugula coming together in a bright and flavorful summer salad.
Get the Recipe: Orzo Pesto Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze

A salad of mixed greens, basil, halved cherry tomatoes, and burrata on a white plate.
Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Experience the epitome of freshness with this Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze. Imagine a bed of spring mix adorned with fragrant basil leaves, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, a drizzle of rich olive oil, and a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction.
Get the Recipe: Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Marinated Tomatoes

Marinated tomatoes in a yellow pie dish.
Marinated Heirloom Tomatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Capture the essence of summer with these marinated heirloom tomatoes that are bursting with flavor. Picture garden-fresh tomatoes bathing in a vibrant marinade of olive oil, vinegar, fragrant garlic, and aromatic oregano. Whether you use them in a salad or as a topping for a sandwich, these tomatoes look stunning and taste even better!
Get the Recipe: Marinated Tomatoes

Calabrian Potatoes

Calabrian potatoes on a white plate.
Calabrian Potatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Add some excitement to your taste buds with these Calabrian Potatoes. Imagine creamy potatoes infused with a subtle heat, bright citrus notes, fresh garlic, and aromatic rosemary. It’s a flavor combination that will check all the boxes and awaken your senses.
Get the Recipe: Calabrian Potatoes

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine on a wooden cutting board.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Get ready for a burst of flavor with these roasted cherry tomatoes. Simply roasted with garlic and a drizzle of olive oil, these tomatoes are served on the vine, making them a vibrant and irresistible addition to any dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Arugula Caprese Salad

Arugula caprese salad on a white plate.
Arugula Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Indulge in the classic flavors of summer with this caprese salad featuring arugula. Imagine plump cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic reduction. It’s the perfect salad to savor during the summer months!
Get the Recipe: Arugula Caprese Salad

Garden Fresh Salsa

Garden fresh salsa in a white bowl with a tortilla chip.
Garden Fresh Salsa. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Get your taste buds dancing with this delicious fresh garden salsa. Picture ripe tomatoes, zesty onions, fragrant cilantro, fiery jalapeño peppers, and a splash of lime juice coming together to create the ultimate dip for chips or a vibrant topping for your favorite Mexican dish.
Get the Recipe: Garden Fresh Salsa

Garlicky Sautéed Cruciferous Veggies

Sauteed cruciferous vegetables in a white bowl.
Garlicky Sautéed Cruciferous Crunch. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Elevate your side dish game with this sautéed cruciferous vegetable medley. Thinly sliced kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage are sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, resulting in a bright and savory combination that will complement any meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Sautéed Cruciferous Veggies

Sautéed Sweet Potatoes

Sauteed sweet potatoes on a black plate.
Sautéed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Add a touch of sweetness and a hint of heat to your plate with these sautéed sweet potatoes. Seasoned with a sprinkle of salt, garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne, these sweet and savory delights are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Sweet Potatoes

Roasted Jalapenos

Roasted jalapenos on a white plate with a copper fork.
Roasted Jalapeños. Photo Credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Discover the smoky and flavorful world of roasted jalapeños. Whether you add them to meals, sauces, or marinades, these roasted peppers will infuse your dishes with deliciousness and a hint of smokiness!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Jalapenos

Side Salad

Side salad on a white plate with a copper fork.
Side Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This recipe both teaches you to the make a delicious side salads with feta, pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon vinaigrette, and teaches you to make a side salad with what you have on hand at home! Let your creativity shine and build your perfect side salad.
Get the Recipe: Side Salad

Spicy Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables in a roasting pan.
Spicy Roasted Vegetables. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Turn up the heat with these Spicy Roasted Vegetables. Classic roasted veggies like zucchini, summer squash, bell peppers, and red onions get an extra kick from cayenne pepper, taking them from ordinary to extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Roasted Vegetables

Turkey Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Turkey bacon-wrapped asparagus in a green dish.
Turkey Bacon Wrapped Asparagus. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Indulge in the irresistible combination of salty, crispy turkey bacon and tender, sweet asparagus with this easy and versatile side dish. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish will become a repeat favorite!
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Warm Potato Salad with Bacon

Warm german potato salad in a white dish beside a bunch of dill.
Warm German Potato Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Transport your taste buds to Germany with this traditional German Potato Salad. Imagine warm potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich, bright dressing featuring sautéed onions, fresh herbs, and tangy vinegar. It’s a side dish that will take your summer feast to the next level.
Get the Recipe: Warm German Potato Salad with Bacon

Greek Green Salad

Closeup side view shot of Prasini salad in a white dish.
Greek Green Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Experience the flavors of Greece with this Prasini Salad. Crispy romaine hearts, creamy feta cheese, fresh scallions, and dill are tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. It’s the perfect side salad to accompany any meal and transport you to the Mediterranean.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Salad

Mexican Corn Salad

Overhead shot of two bowls of Mexican corn salad with lime wedges and forks on the side.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This Mexican Corn Salad has all the flavors of street stall corn on the cob—sweet corn, creamy butter, freshly squeezed lime juice, diced Jalapeños, chili flakes, and cheese.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Pickled Onions

Overhead shot of a jar of pink pickled onions with lime halves on the side.
Pickled Onions. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Mexican pickled onions are quick to make with just lime juice, onion, and salt. Enjoy on tacos, burgers, or even bagels and lox.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Onions

Kachumber Salad

Low angle shot of Kachumber Salad in a white bowl on a striped napkin with 2 silver serving spoons on the side.
Kachumber Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Kachumber Salad is a colorful salad of chopped raw veggies—chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and chile peppers. It’s seasoned with fresh cilantro or coriander leaves, ground spices, and a squeeze of lemon juice or lime juice and makes a great side for Indian dishes from veggie curries to biryani.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber Salad

Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono

A black bowl of Japanese cucumber salad garnished with sesame seeds.
Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Japanese cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish for hot weather! It goes perfectly with grilled fish and meat or spicy dishes. It is easy to make, light, and uses just a few ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono

Elote

metal baking pan with elote, Mexican grilled corn cobs with mayonn
Elote. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Super easy elote recipe for Mexican grilled corn has just 5 ingredients and it’s totally addictive. It is full of flavor and can be made in minutes!
Get the Recipe: Elote

Alabama White Sauce Kale Salad

Alabama White Sauce Kale Slaw.
Alabama White Sauce Kale Slaw. Photo credit: Girls Can Grill

Alabama white sauce kale slaw is a tangy, peppery alternative to sweet coleslaw. It’s great as a side or served on barbecue sandwiches
Get the Recipe: Alabama White Sauce Kale Salad

Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus

Air-fried asparagus spears with crispy texture.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Discover a quick and easy summer side dish with Ottolenghi’s air fryer asparagus recipe. The asparagus spears are coated in a delicate olive oil and spice mixture, then air-fried to crispy perfection.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus

Eggplant Tomato Stacks: Elegant Summer Side Dish

Eggplant tomato stacks with grilled eggplant slices and tomato layers.
Eggplant Tomato Stacks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Impress your guests with these elegant eggplant tomato stacks that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Layers of grilled eggplant and ripe tomato slices are stacked together, drizzled with a balsamic glaze, and garnished with fresh basil. This vibrant and flavorful side dish celebrates the summer’s bounty in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks: Elegant Summer Side Dish

Mashed Cauliflower aka Mashed Faux Potatoes

Mashed cauliflower inside a bowl.
Mashed Cauliflower aka Mashed Faux Potatoes. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Mashed Cauliflower Recipe, together with shredded cheese, cream cheese, and broth, is the best mashed cauliflower puree as a replacement for regular mashed potatoes. This low carb cauliflower mashed potatoes is the recipe you have been searching for.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Cauliflower ala Mashed Faux Potatoes

TikTok Green Goddess Salad Recipe

TikTok Green Goddess Salad iside wooden bowl with crackers on the side.
TikTok Green Goddess Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Our healthy Green Goddess Salad Recipe is a perfect keto salad you can use on various occasions that fits perfectly as an appetizer for St. Patrick’s day or any other gathering. Fully low carb, keto, gluten-free, grain-free, diabetic friendly as well as sugar-free, this wonderful recipe for green salad mixed with green goddess dressing will be in your fridge from now on at all times.
Get the Recipe: TikTok Green Goddess Salad Recipe

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Crispy Baked Zucchini served on a white plate.
Low Carb Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Enjoy our Crispy Baked Zucchini in oven simply by making your own keto breadcrumbs from one of our bread selection. Those golden low carb baked zucchinis panko style is a perfect addition as a BBQ side or an appetizer that is entirely gluten-free, low-carb, grain-free, and perfect for diabetics.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Faux Potato Salad Recipe

A white bowl of potato salad with mayonnaise.
Faux Potato Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Our Faux Potato Salad Recipe is made without cauliflower for an even tastier faux-tato salad. Our gluten-free and diabetic version of low carb yogurt mayonnaise potato salad uses turnip radish, which gives you the best potato alternative.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad Recipe

Coconut Cauliflower Rice

Coconut Cauliflower Rice inside golden plate with lime slices.
Coconut Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Try this delicious Coconut Cauliflower Rice recipe, perfect for those following a keto, low carb, paleo, or whole30 diet. This flavorful and healthy side dish recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation using our cauliflower rice recipe, coconut milk, toasted coconuts, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cauliflower Rice

Ranch Pasta Salad with Bacon

Bacon ranch pasta salad in a clear bowl with a striped towel.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon is a rich and creamy side dish that pairs super well with all your summertime favorites. Prep this 30-minute, one-bowl salad, and it will be a welcome addition to your next pool party, potluck, or neighborhood barbeque. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Get the Recipe: Ranch Pasta Salad with Bacon

Grilled Corn On The Cob

A pan filled with ears of grilled corn.
Grilled Corn. Photo Credit: One Hot Oven.

Don’t let summer pass you by without grilling sweet corn. Corn on the Cob on the Grill cooked in the husk is a summertime side dish that’s easy to make and always a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Barbecued Green Beans

A white bowl with barbecued green beans and chuncks of ham.
Barbecued Green Beans. Photo Credit: One Hot Oven.

This easy-to-make BBQ Green Beans recipe is a perfect summer side dish for cookouts, potlucks, holiday meals, and anytime you want to use your fresh-picked beans. Everyone loves these tender beans, smoky ham, sweet onions, and tangy sauce.
Get the Recipe: Barbecued Green Beans

Blackstone Zucchini

blackstone zucchini cut into chunks on a white plate.
Blackstone Zucchini. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Make perfectly cooked zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle. Quick and easy, these make for a healthy side dish! These Blackstone zucchini are low in carbs and great for a keto or paleo diet!
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Zucchini

Blackstone Broccoli

Blackstone broccoli in a white bowl.
Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Making broccoli on the Blackstone Griddle is incredibly easy to do! Have deliciously tender broccoli ready in no time at all. Broccoli is a great keto Blackstone recipe that pairs easily with many proteins.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Broccoli

Asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle

blackstone asparagus on a white plate.
Asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Making asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle is insanely easy to do! Crunchy delicious grilled asparagus is a healthy side dish. Minimal ingredients of garlic, salt, pepper and oil, this dish is done in no time at all!
Get the Recipe: Asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle

Texas Caviar

Texas caviar on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Add a burst of flavor to your summer meals with this refreshing Texas Caviar. Packed with a colorful medley of beans, corn, tomatoes, and peppers, this dish is bursting with fresh ingredients and zesty dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any summer gathering.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar

Amish Potato Salad

creamy potato salad with eggs and mayonnaise.
Amish Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Cool down your taste buds with a classic Amish Potato Salad. Made with tender potatoes, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing, this side dish is a must-have for summer.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad

Salt Potatoes

Salt Potatoes drizzled with melted butter.
Salt Potatoes. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Enjoy summer flavor with these mouthwatering Salt Potatoes. Simplicity at its best, this dish features small, tender potatoes boiled in salty water, resulting in a creamy texture and a burst of flavor with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Salt Potatoes

Cheesy Grilled Potatoes and Onions

Grilled potatoes topped with cheese and bacon in a foil pan.
Cheesy Grilled Potatoes and Onions. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Elevate your summer grilling game with these Cheesy Grilled Potatoes and Onions. Tender potatoes and sweet onions are cooked to perfection on the grill, then topped with melted cheese for an irresistible side dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Grilled Potatoes and Onions

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