Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it’s also the perfect time to try something new in the kitchen! With the days getting longer and the temperature rising, you can create light, fresh, and delicious side dishes for any outdoor meal.
![collage of side dishes with text overlay "25 summer side dishes"](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/summer-side-dishes-pin2.jpg)
From classic coleslaw to modern twists on potato salad, here are twenty five summer side dish recipes to help spice up your summer barbecue and impress your friends.
So, grab your aprons and get ready to try something different this summer – you won’t be disappointed!
Slaw and other Salads
Summer is the time for colorful and flavorful fruits and vegetables. Here's a few cole slaws, fruit salads and vegetable salads that would make a tasty and healthy addition to your meals
![peach slices and blackberries on salad greens with blackberry dressing and text overlay "peach and blackberry salad"](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/peach-blackberry-salad-post.jpg)
![Kohlrabi Slaw with carrot and kale garnish in a bowl](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Kohlrabi-Slaw-.jpg)
Potato Salad
Potato Salads are a classic addition to cookouts and picnics. Here are three very different potato salads to try.
![bowl of potato salad on a picnic table with text overlay "cajun potato salad"](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cajun-potato-salad-post.jpg)
![top down view of potato salad on a picnic blanket with text overlay "herb and garlic potato salad"](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/herb-and-garlic-potato-salad-post.jpg)
Rice and Grains
You might not think of rice for a cookout side dish, but these recipes will change your mind.
![cold rice salad in a bowl](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/cold-rice-salad-800x600.jpg)
![](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Spanish-Rice-800x600.jpg)
Beans
Beans are another classic summer side dish. Luckily the modern pressure cooker makes these recipes a breeze to make without cooking them for hours and heating up the kitchen.
![dish of baked beans with text overlay "BBQ Pork and Beans in a pressure cooker"](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/BBQ-pork-and-beans-post.jpg)
Pasta Salad
Macaroni Salad is fine, but these pasta salads add a sophisticated touch to your meals and are just as easy to make.
![pasta salad with arugula, preserved lemons and feta.](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Pasta-Salad-post.jpg)
![orzo pasta salad in a red bowl on blue slate with text overlay "orzo pasta salad with tomatoes and capers"](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/orzo-pasta-salad-post-800x600.jpg)
Grilled Sides
While you have the grill heated up anyway, why not throw on some veggies or bread as an addition to your meals.
![grilled flatbreads on a plate](https://thatrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/grilled-flatbread-800x600.jpg)
I hope the livin' is easy for you this summer!
Until next time, happy eating!
~Audrey
Noami Morales Maldonado
I like the recipes and I will make them.