Summer is the perfect time to lean into fruits and vegetables.
No matter what you choose, these veggie sides will brighten up any meal this season.
For more budget- and beginner-friendly cooking tips and recipes, check outThrifty.
Caitlin Bensel
Elevate the look of this easy salad by using multicolored tomatoes if you’re free to find them.
If the cucumbers are grated instead of chopped, this mixture can be served as a dip.
you could also double the recipe and bring it to your next potluck.
Caitlin Bensel
If you might find tatsoi, a peppery Asian leafy green, use it instead of mild-mannered spinach.
Store-bought Thai sweet chili sauce and umami-packed white miso build fast flavor in this easy summer salad.
Feta adds the perfect creamy, salty, tangy edge, and mint makes this salad taste even brighter.
This is one easy side salad you’ll want to serve at all your summer BBQs.
The red onion adds nice crunch.
Enjoy this salad right after you’re done making it or store it away to snack on for later.
Fresh herbs and briny feta cheese balance the flavor.
This versatile side dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak or fish.
The sweet and tangy balsamic dressing pulls everything together, with fresh basil adding a refreshing pop of color.
Add capers for an even bigger flavor.
Serve this smashed cucumber salad at a summer cookout alongside burgers and hot dogs.
Pick one up from the hardware store or order one online for less than $15.
Fresh cucumber and juicy ripe tomatoes are all you oughta really make this salad shine.
Marinating cucumbers and tomatoes in vinegar with a touch of lemon zest infuses the dish with tangy citrus flavor.
These kebabs make a wonderful side dish with grilled meats or fish.
Caitlin Bensel
Photographer / Antonis Achilleos, Prop Stylist / Kay Clarke, Food Stylist / Ruth Blackburn
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
Photographer / Jennifer Causey, Food Stylist / Karen Rankin, Prop Stylist / Christine Keely
Greg DuPree
