Best Summer Side Dish Recipes for BBQs, Picnics & Potlucks

Summer is almost here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill, pack the picnic basket, and savor every sun-soaked moment. But let’s be honest—while the burgers and brats usually get the spotlight, it’s the side dishes that truly bring the whole meal together.

Whether you’re heading to a backyard BBQ, hosting a neighborhood potluck, or planning a laid-back picnic at the park, these easy summer side dishes are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. From crisp salads to fresh fruit combos, grilled veggies to creamy classics, this roundup has something for every table.

Whether you’re hosting the next cookout or just need something quick and fresh for a weeknight dinner, these summer side dishes will keep your meals exciting all season long. Don’t be surprised if they outshine the main course!

Have a favorite summer side? Share it in the comments—I’m always looking for new dishes to try!

Let’s dive in to these irresistible sides that will keep your summer menu fresh, flavorful, and fun!

1. Amish Macaroni Salad

Creamy Amish Macaroni Salad recipe is a better than Walmart’s Amish Macaroni Salad with tangy dressing made of mayo, mustard, and paprika.

2. Cottage Cheese Mexican Street Corn Salad

This Cottage Cheese Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe is uses cottage cheese for added protein. It’s a knockout side dish!

3. Strawberry Quinoa Salad

This easy Strawberry Quinoa Salad recipe is fresh, healthy, gluten-free, and perfect for summer picnics, meal prep, or a light lunch.

4. Easy Hawaiian Baked Beans

Aloha, food lovers! Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Hawaii? Forget your regular baked beans, we’re about to infuse this classic comfort food with the sweet and savory

5. Dill Potato Salad Recipe with Corn and Peppers

Potato salad is a classic side dish that’s perfect for summer get-togethers. But most potato salad recipes aren’t really salad at all. From recipes filled with fatty meats to overly sauced sides, it’s hard to find a healthy potato salad option. Whether you’re looking for a recipe with more vegetables or just need a vegetarian

6. Apple Tortellini Salad

Perfect for a summer BBQ, this Apple Tortellini Salad Recipe just tastes like summer with apples, strawberries and cooled pasta.

7. Sourdough Honey Cornbread

Sourdough Honey Cornbread is cooked in a cast iron skillet for crispy edges and a moist center. It’s naturally sweetened with honey and has a slight tang.

8. Zucchini Parmesan Tater Tots

If you are looking for new ideas to include fresh zucchini, here is the perfect recipe! You have to try this healthy baked Zucchini Parmesan Tater Tots!

9. Popeye’s Coleslaw

This tangy Popeye’s coleslaw recipe tastes just like what you would order at the popular American fast food restaurant. With a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, this slaw makes a delicious side dish!

10. Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad

This cilantro lime pasta salad is light, vibrant, and refreshing! Serve it as a crowd-pleasing dish at potlucks, picnics, and barbecues!

11. Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Ambrosia Salad Recipe – Make this classic, fluffy and incredibly tasty Ambrosia Salad with marshmallows, fruit, cream cheese and cool whip!

12. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Escape to paradise with Hawaiian Macaroni Salad! Elbow noodles mingle with savory ham and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a sweet & tangy pineapple dressing!

13. Cajun Corn on the Cob

Summer time is corn season, and Cajun Corn on the Cob takes everyone’s favorite summer side dish and spices it up with a Cajun kick. Sweet corn is a

14. Cowboy Beans

Cowboy Beans are such a simple and hearty addition to just about any meal or can be used as a main dish too. Loaded with five kinds of beans, beef and bacon they’re perfect for the chilly fall weather.

15. Chopped Greek Salad

This chopped Greek salad is packed with fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, briny kalamata olives, and creamy feta. Tossed in a simple dressing, it’s light yet full of flavor.

16. Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican Corn Salad is a big bowl of Mexican street corn at it’s finest. Chargrilled corn & Cojita cheese are tossed in creamy mayo & sour cream dressing!

17. Cilantro Lime Rice

Love Chipotle’s Cilantro Lime Rice? You can make it at home with just 10 minutes of prep! This recipe tastes just like the restaurant version and pairs perfectly with any dish. Let me show you how!

18. Carrot Raisin Salad

Carrot Raisin Salad is a simple to make cold side dish that is sweet and creamy and perfect for BBQs or potlucks.

19. Pea Salad

Pea salad is a refreshing and creamy side dish made with sweet peas, mayonnaise, red onion, red pepper, celery, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and fresh dill. This side dish has a delicious and tangy

20. Heirloom Tomato Salad with Balsamic & Feta

This fresh heirloom tomato salad has all the flavor of summer and is so easy! It’s full of fresh herbs and topped with balsamic and feta.

21. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Zucchini Casserole: with a white cheddar sauce and buttery panko breadcrumbs, this family-friendly recipe is great for late-summer zucchini!

22. Blackstone Vegetables

Quick and delicious Blackstone vegetables cooked to perfection! Learn how to make griddle vegetables with this easy recipe for any meal.