Summer sides with bold, fresh flavors are perfect when you need recipes that taste as good as they look. From quick weeknight options to dishes fit for a crowd, these ideas are made to be simple and satisfying. You’ll find plenty to keep your table full and your family happy.

Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash

Air fryer zucchini and squash on a blue plate.
Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This air fryer zucchini and squash recipe is lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil and cooked in the air fryer until it achieves a delicious browning. This side dish is an easy air fryer recipe perfect for summer! 
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

A closeup shot of roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine on a wooden cutting board surrounded by basil and garlic.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These cherry tomatoes are simply roasted with garlic and olive oil and served on the vine!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Ratatouille with an Italian Flair

Italian ratatouille in a glass casserole dish.
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This Italian inspired baked ratatouille is a colorful and flavorful vegetable dish that is perfect for a summer meal. Made with yellow squash, zucchini, and tomatoes, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair

Homemade Smoky Baked Beans

Image shows a white casserole dish filled with homemade baked beans on wooden table with a silver spoon sticking out from it.
Homemade Smoky Baked Beans. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Homemade baked beans are so much easier to make than you think. And the flavor you get compared to what you have when you open a can? You will fall in love with these sweet and smoky beans and never go back!
Get the Recipe: Homemade Smoky Baked Beans

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cilantro Lime Rice has a way of making everything on your plate taste a little better. Whether you’re layering it into burrito bowls, stuffing it into wraps, or serving it alongside something grilled, it adds that fresh, zippy bite that pulls a meal together.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Mexican Street Corn

Corn on the cob topped with mexican spices and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Mexican Street Corn features a tangy sauce and crumbly cotija cheese sprinkled with just the right amount of spice. This is the best corn I’ve ever tried!
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw

A bowl of shredded purple cabbage and green apple slaw, bursting with fresh flavors and seasonings, is served with two wooden spoons.
Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw recipe is a delightful, refreshing choice when you’re looking to add a burst of flavor and color to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw

Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

Close-up of roasted cherry tomatoes with charred skins and fresh basil leaves, bursting with bold flavors, next to a silver spoon.
Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This delicious recipe for blistered tomatoes is a must-try for those seeking to add a special gourmet touch to any meal! Blistering cherry tomatoes in garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs makes them extremely juicy and flavorful. Definitely a go-to excellent appetizer or side dish anytime.
Get the Recipe: Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

Stir Fry Taiwanese Spinach with Garlic

Healthy and flavorful stir-fried Taiwanese spinach with garlic on a brown plate.
Stir Fry Taiwanese Spinach with Garlic. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Simple, easy Taiwanese Spinach stir fry is a classic Chinese vegetable dish.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fry Taiwanese Spinach with Garlic

Baked Beans with Hamburger

A plate of baked beans mixed with ground beef, placed on a white plate. The plate is on a colorful tablecloth, with a red cloth and greens nearby.
Baked Beans with Hamburger. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

These Baked Beans with Hamburger are the ultimate side dish. Tender beef and flavorful beans all cooked in a smoky and tangy sauce. Perfect for cookouts!
Get the Recipe: Baked Beans with Hamburger

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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