Summer Sides for Cookouts and Picnics
Jun 17, 2025
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Summer cookouts and picnics deserve side dishes with big flavor and just the right mix of fresh, tangy, creamy, or crisp. From Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad to Grilled Pineapple, these recipes bring serious personality to the table. You’ll find Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad stacked with ripe summer produce, Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese that disappears fast, and Tangy Three Bean Salad that’s anything but boring. Whether you’re packing a basket or firing up the grill, these sides are ready to join the fun!
Table of Contents
- Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad
- Classic Southern Deviled Eggs
- Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad
- A Tasty and Kid-friendly Pickle Macaroni Salad
- Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Lemon and Tarragon
- Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
- Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
- Tangy Three Bean Salad
- Corn Ribs
- Grilled Pineapple
- Grilled Zucchini
- Fresh Pineapple Salsa
- Grilled Corn On The Cob
- Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
- Creamy Confetti Corn with Bacon
Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad
Penna Dutch Potato Salad brings Amish-style comfort with a creamy, crunchy twist—its signature hot dressing makes this nostalgic side truly unforgettable!
To learn more: Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad
Classic Southern Deviled Eggs
Southern Deviled Eggs are creamy, tangy, and a must at any proper gathering. Serve them chilled—and preferably in silence—because few things ignite family drama faster than someone taking the last deviled egg without making eye contact.
To learn more: Classic Southern Deviled Eggs
Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad
This tomato salad recipe is inspired by Jamie Oliver’s version, so you know it’s going to be good. Bursting with fresh flavors from tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar, it’s the perfect side dish to complement any meal. Don’t forget the mozzarella cheese!
Get the Recipe: Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad
A Tasty and Kid-friendly Pickle Macaroni Salad

This Pickle Relish Macaroni Salad is a tangy and crunchy twist on a classic side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues. The kid-friendly recipe combines elbow macaroni with a flavorful mix of dill pickle relish, mayonnaise, and seasonings. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Get the Recipe: A Tasty and Kid-friendly Pickle Macaroni Salad
Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Lemon and Tarragon
This old-fashioned potato salad ditches the mayo in favor of a zesty vinegar-based dressing, letting baby Yukon Golds, crisp celery, and shallots shine with bright notes of lemon and tarragon. It’s a lighter, herb-forward take that plays beautifully at cookouts, giving you bold flavor without the weight.
To learn more: Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Lemon and Tarragon
Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese is a simple and delicious side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. The crisp broccoli and cauliflower are perfectly complemented by the salty bacon, cheddar cheese, and a tangy 3-ingredient dressing. It’s quick to make and great for potlucks or a light lunch!
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans

These homemade slow cooker baked beans are the perfect balance of sweet and saucy, making them a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion. Easily made vegetarian, this recipe features a variety of beans and a rich, flavorful sauce that’s sure to be a hit. Simply toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Get the Recipe: Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
Tangy Three Bean Salad

This Tangy Three Bean Salad is a classic dish that’s perfect for potlucks and BBQs. It’s packed with fiber and protein, and the tangy dressing brings all the flavors together. Plus, it’s vegan!
Get the Recipe: Tangy Three Bean Salad
Corn Ribs

Looking for a fun and flavorful way to enjoy corn on the cob? These oven-baked Corn Ribs are seasoned to perfection and make for a delicious appetizer or side dish. Plus, they’re gluten-free, healthy, and kid-friendly, making them a great option for any occasion!
Get the Recipe: Corn Ribs
Grilled Pineapple

Looking for a sweet and spicy side dish to add to your next BBQ? Try these Grilled Pineapple slices! The zingy flavor comes from a delicious combination of lime juice and chili powder.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple
Grilled Zucchini

Looking for a quick and healthy side dish for your next cookout? This grilled zucchini recipe is marinated in olive oil, herbs, and garlic for a flavorful and simple vegetarian option. Top with parmesan cheese for an extra touch of deliciousness!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini
Fresh Pineapple Salsa

This Fresh Pineapple Salsa recipe is the perfect appetizer or side dish for your next gathering! The sweet pineapple combined with the other fresh ingredients makes a delicious topping for tacos, seafood, chicken, or pork.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Pineapple Salsa
Grilled Corn On The Cob

This grilled corn on the cob recipe is the perfect addition to your next barbecue! Achieve juicy, charred corn with these simple tips. Top with butter, salt, and pepper for a classic flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob
Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

This Creamy Coleslaw Recipe is a simple, quick, and delicious side dish that’s perfect for summer BBQs or a light lunch. The homemade dressing is what makes it so good! It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Creamy Confetti Corn with Bacon

This Creamy Confetti Corn with Bacon is a fresh summer salad or BBQ side dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a crunchy and delicious dish that will be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The combination of fresh corn, bacon, and colorful veggies makes it a standout appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Confetti Corn with Bacon


