Burgers and steaks are great, and I could make a meal out of either one. But if you are entertaining with a BBQ, there really needs to be a spread. You want your guests to leave full with memories of summer salads, smokey soups and beans, or a sexy skewer of pasta and cheese. You will want to try at least one of these sensational summer sides.
Watermelon and Jicama Salad
Oh my goodness, is this an interesting salad! And isn't it just brimming with colors? Something that your guests may not have had before.
I have made this exact recipe except I added vodka! A fun appetizer that tastes a bit like a bloody Mary. Grilling the veggies adds a nice smoky and
robust flavor.
Dressed Up Baked Beans
Life is too short to serve plain baked beans. This recipe takes only 20 minutes, and is loaded with bacon, mustard, and sausage. Try it!
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This corn features a zippy, citrusy dressing. It has a low level spiciness that is offset by the citrus. I think that this is a must make recipe
Antipasto Tortellini Skewers with Lemon Basil Vinaigrette
Make these as a summer appetizer or side dish. Super easy to make, and comes together in 30 minutes. Best yet, they are beautiful, and you can prepare them ahead of time.
Red, White & Blue Potato Salad
There's one thing I know for sure, I will never serve you store bought or plain 'ol potato salad. But if I see you this Summer, I may treat you to this colorful concoction. The recipe features bacon and no mayo!
Layered Southwestern Cornbread Salad
What a showstopper! This salad actually has 7 components and 11 layers of flavors. Make sure you have long handled servers, so guests can really dig into all of the deliciousness.
Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio
This recipe had me at "heirloom." They are really the only kind of tomatoes I enjoy. Mr. Shop This brought home the most gorgeous tomatoes from Whole Foods yesterday. I was so disappointed. Tasteless. So get yourself some heirlooms, slice them super thin, add buratta, pistachios, fresh corn, a balsamic glaze, and enjoy!
Grilled Zucchini Stack
The creamy ricotta stuffing is said to be addicting. I think these stacks are just so cute and clever. They work well as an appetizer, salad, or side dish!
Summer Fruit Salsa & Pesto Hummus
I have been making my own hummus for quite some time. I decided to do so once I saw some of the store bought had sugar in it. And another brand had Canola oil. I didn't want either. It is so easy to make, and you can change a basic recipe up with ease. This one will be my next try. Yum!
The Best Easy Grilled Vegetables
Grilling brings out every bit of sweetness of plain old veggies. The smokey char from the grill just adds the best depth of flavor. Click the link for wonderful tips and ideas for a pretty platter of healthiness!
I am a bit obsessed with cauliflower. Generally speaking I roast it with every herb under the sun, grated parm, and cinnamon! But I have never grilled it before. What's wrong with me?
This looks delicious! And please do add the grated parm. You'll love it.
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