11 Creative Sides For Summer Cookouts Slideshow
1. Asian Coleslaw
Here's an interesting twist on the summer cookout staple, coleslaw, which has a little extra crunch from pan-fried wonton strips.
2. Southwestern Potato Salad
Here's the perfect potato salad to serve at a Tex-Mex themed backyard dinner.
3. Herby Pesto Pasta Salad with Chard
Whole-wheat penne and plenty of greens put a healthy spin on this typically calorie-laden side, but it's still packed with flavor thanks to plenty of chopped fresh herbs and pesto. Spinach works well, too.
Click here to see the Herby Pesto Pasta Salad with Chard Recipe.
4. Cumin-Crusted Oven Fries
Smoky cumin takes on a new dimension when roasted together with these easy-to-make, healthy oven fries.
5. Spicy Sweet Potato Fries
Looking for a healthy alternative to the russet potato? Look no further than these delectable, slightly spicy sweet potato fries.
6. Curried Corn on the Cob
There's nothing like fresh, sweet, summer corn cooked in their husks. A little curry powder and crumbled goat cheese create an Indian-inspired twist on this popular side dish.
7. Baked Beans in Bacon Cups
Instead of crumbling bacon bits into baked beans, this brilliant recipe takes a good idea and turns it upside down with amazing results. Baked beans served in individual bacon "cups" are perfect party platter sides.
8. Three-Bean Salad with Quinoa
Summer green beans, shelled edamame, and kidney beans combine into a protein- and fiber-packed powerhouse made even better with heart-healthy quinoa.
9. 'No Potato' Cauliflower Salad
Looking for the alternative to the alternative? Sure, everyone knows about using sweet potatoes instead of russet or waxy potatoes in potato salad, but what about cutting them out completely and using cauliflower instead?
10. Cucumber Salad with Dill
Here's a Scandinavian take on refreshing cucumber salad that is a snap to prepare with just six ingredients and pairs well with just about anything — fish, lamb, veal, chicken, and even smoked meat.
11. Char-Baked Tomato, Zucchini, and Eggplant
Looking for something a little unconventional? Look no further than this hearty side dish, packed with the summer's best produce.
Click here to see the Char-Baked Tomato, Zucchini, and Eggplant Recipe.