40+ Summer Side Dishes

Whether it’s a picnic, BBQ, or dinner on the patio, these are the best summer side dishes I keep coming back to. They’re fresh, easy to prep, a little cheeky, and wildly delicious — just how I like my sides.

Summer Salads

From tangy lentil and corn salads to buttery grilled eggplant, these dishes are meant to shine next to your grilled mains or stand solo as a light meal. I chose recipes from my own kitchen and a few favorites from fellow bloggers. These sides are packed with texture, flavor, and that little extra “yum” that makes summer meals feel special without being fussy.