Cookout-Ready Sides for Summer
Summer means one thing: Potluck, barbecue, and backyard cookout season is back at last. No matter what goes on the grill, everyone knows that a barbecue is only as good as its side dishes—and that’s where we come in. Our favorite summer sides include marinated salads, bite-sized sliders, dips and spreads, and everything else you’ll need for Fourth of July celebrations (and beyond).
A Trio of Tasty Salads
Marinated salads are the backbone of any summer gathering because they taste even better after a night in the fridge. Make any of these simple-yet-vibrant salads the night before a cookout, let them chill out, and you have the ideal potluck dish.
- Lemon Orzo Crab Salad: Light, lemony, and packed with sweet crab meat, this salad is the exact opposite of the mayo-heavy options you often see on a buffet table. For the best results, add the spinach just before serving so it doesn’t have a chance to wilt down.
- Mediterranean Tuna Salad: If you love Greek salad and tuna, this is the salad for you. Fresh cucumbers and cherry tomatoes form a bright, crunchy base, while Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and plenty of tuna add savory richness. Toss everything together with a quick lemon-oregano vinaigrette and you’re good to go.
- Summer Sardine Pasta Salad: Between the banana peppers, fresh mozzarella, and ultra-savory sardines, this pasta salad’s a bit of a wild card—and we mean that in the best possible way. If you’re looking for something a little different for your next potluck, this recipe won’t let you down.
Two-Bite Sandwiches
Miniature sandwiches make truly excellent party food. Why eat one big burger when you can try multiple different sliders—and still have room for all the sides?
- Sweet Chili Salmon Sliders: Savory salmon patties and sweet chili sauce team up to delicious effect in these easy sliders. Whatever you do, don’t skip the thinly sliced fresh mango on top—it takes the sweet-and-savory vibe to another level.
- Salmon Tortilla Rolls: Roll-and-slice tortilla wraps couldn’t be easier to make or more fun to eat. Our favorite version features a creamy, spicy salmon filling that’s sure to heat up your next cookout.
And Some Dips for Good Measure
Is it even a party without chips and dip? We don’t think so. Either of these two classic recipes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering—just be sure to pick up plenty of chips, bread, and veggies for dipping.
- Hot Crab Dip: Our ultra-cheesy crab dip knows no season. Serve it bubbling hot from the oven or at room temperature—it’s just as delicious either way!
- Salmon Party Spread: This simple cream cheese-based spread is loaded with herbs, lemon, and our delicious pink salmon. Serve it with everything bagel chips and veggies for a satisfying, surprisingly light snack.
