From saucy beans and crisp zucchini patties to berry-packed salads and grilled corn, these Fourth of July side dishes are summer-ready for the holiday.
1/45
Jalapeno Popper Mexican Street Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
One of the best things about summer is fresh sweet corn, and this recipe is a definite standout. We love its creamy dressing, crunchy panko coating and spicy jalapeno kick. If you're really feeling wild, sprinkle these with a bit of cooked and crumbled bacon! —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn: 339 calories, 26g fat (9g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 568mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
You can’t celebrate Fourth of July without corn on the cob! The creamy dressing and jalapeno kick makes this dish surprisingly unique and delicious. If you’re really feeling wild, we recommend sprinkling crumbled bacon on top!
2/45
Watermelon Feta Flag Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Our family celebrates the Fourth of July with a watermelon salad that resembles the flag. Here’s an all-American centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue. —Jan Whitworth, Roebuck, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup salad: 140 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 256mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
This incredibly delicious salad resembles the American flag, making it the ultimate Fourth of July side dish. It’s an all-American centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue.
3/45
Salad with Avocado
From the Recipe Creator:
Tangy lime dressing is the perfect topper for this avocado salad. Toasted walnuts make for crunchy goodness, but try it with any kind of nut you like. —Ilia Kaku, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 130 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 57mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
This crisp and tangy salad, loaded with chunks of creamy avocado, is an easy, summery side dish. It’s dressed with a bright lime vinaigrette with fresh parsley and cilantro, sour cream and mustard that cuts through the rich avocado.
4/45
Ranch-Style Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
This ranch-style beans recipe is served at all of our barbecues. It seems most people who live here like spicy, flavorful food, and this fits the bill just right. —Wilma Ruth James, Ranger, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 226 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 345mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 10g fiber), 14g protein.
These ranch beans are ideal for Fourth of July barbecues. The spiciness and sweetness of the sauce makes it an instant crowd pleaser.
5/45
Sliced Tomato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I got this recipe from my grandmother. It's a perfect platter to serve with burgers or hot sandwiches. —Kendal Tangedal, Plentywood, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 94 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 159mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
This easy to make salad is fresh and ideal for hot summer days. The brightness of the tomatoes really bring out the spirit of America, too.
6/45
Red, White & Blue Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Tossing the cooked potatoes with stock and wine right after you drain them infuses them with flavor. The liquid absorbs like magic. —George Levinthal, Goleta, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 221 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 405mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
This potato salad will be an instant hit wherever you go this Fourth of July. We recommend tossing the cooked potatoes with vegetable or chicken stock and wine right after you drain them. The liquid will absorb like magic.
7/45
Grilled Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Mushrooms cooked over hot coals always taste good, but this easy recipe makes them taste fantastic. As a mother of two children, I love to cook entire meals on the grill. It's fun spending time outdoors with the kids. —Melanie Knoll, Marshalltown, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 77 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
This grilled mushroom recipe turns an earthy vegetable into a cookout star. Basting the mushrooms with garlic and dill butter as they cook gives them a savory edge that pairs well with the grill’s smoky char.
8/45
Radish Cucumber Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I put this cucumber radish salad together with vegetables I had left in my garden. My family liked it so much, I started taking it to community suppers and was often asked for the recipe. It's a refreshing accompaniment for any entree. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 77 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
This salad is a refreshing dish to bring to any Fourth of July gathering. It pairs well with any kind of meat dish, and it is a cooling way to beat the July heat.
9/45
Potatoes Romanoff
From the Recipe Creator:
These tangy potato cubes, topped with cheddar cheese, can be mixed ahead and refrigerated until you're ready to bake them. What a timesaver! I like to serve them with steak and green beans. —Rita Deere, Evansville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 322 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 566mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
These potatoes are a hearty dish that pairs well with roasted veggies as well as chicken or steak. The cheese on top will easily get your neighbors excited about digging in.
10/45
Cherry Tomato Pasta with Avocado Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Heart-healthy avocado makes this pasta dish feel indulgent without being overly rich. The flavorful sauce is so luscious, you’ll think there is cream hiding in there. It’s guilt-free and dairy-free, but with a texture and consistency that’s similar to traditional cream-based sauces. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 314 calories, 18g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 5g fiber), 9g protein.
This addictive pasta dish is indulgent, without feeling heavy. The avocado sauce is creamy and its bright flavor is sure to be a big hit with your fellow Fourth of July party-goers.
11/45
Cheese-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
They're easy to fix as an appetizer or salad. It's impossible to eat just one. — Mary Lou Robison, Greensboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 tomato: 111 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 93mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
These cherry stuffed tomatoes are juicy and bursting with flavor. You simply can’t go wrong with this delightful dish that pairs well with just about everything.
12/45
Summer Squash Side Dish Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter-in-law created this healthy yellow squash recipe and shared it with me. I was delighted since my husband and I were cutting down on fried foods. You can easily double or triple this squash casserole to serve at family dinner. —Sue Joyce, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 176 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 510mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
Start the summer off right with this summer squash dish that will make your tastebuds sing. For larger Fourth of July parties, you can easily double or triple this dish.
13/45
Grilled Peach Couscous Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll feel inspired at the farmers market with the recipe for this couscous salad in tow. Grilled peaches and limes, plus a subtly sweet dressing, bring pizazz. —Emily King, Fayetteville, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 144 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 150mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch.
This salad is perfect for when you need a break from all the burgers you may have consumed. The grilled peaches and limes with the sweet dressing will make this your new favorite summer salad.
14/45
Four-Berry Spinach Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Nature's candy abounds in the berry-filled salad. The slightly tart dressing contrasts deliciously with the sweet in-season fruit. —Betty Lise Anderson, Gahanna, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 89 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 25mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 fruit.
On the Fourth of July, you can’t go wrong with fruit. The addition of the red vinegar and fresh spinach makes this salad tangy and full of flavor.
15/45
Tomato Cobbler
From the Recipe Creator:
I make this recipe during the height of summer, when tomatoes are abundant and super flavorful. The topping is a cross between that of a crisp and a cobbler. It's a delightful way to use up fresh garden produce. —Mohammad Abdullah, Fremont, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 217 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 543mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
This tomato cobbler is a contest winner for good reason! There’s no better time than the Fourth of July to enjoy fresh tomatoes in the height of their season.
16/45
Succotash
From the Recipe Creator:
You can't get more southern than this succotash recipe. It comes from my mother, who was a fantastic cook. This dish made her famous—at least with everyone who ever tasted it. —Rosa Boone, Mobile, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 79 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 442mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch.
This succotash recipe is full of corn, lima beans, peas, smoked ham and okra. It simmers for a few hours, so it’s a great make-ahead, barbecue side dish.
17/45
Cucumber Melon Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This colorful salad is tangy and delicious. The unexpected combination is such a pleasant surprise. You can use whatever type of melon you have on hand. —Edie Farm, Farmington, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 159 calories, 14g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1/2 starch.
This colorful salad will keep you feeling refreshed and revived all day long. Who wouldn’t love some fresh fruit on their plate?
18/45
Grilled Potato Fans with Onions
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for the ultimate grilled potato? These seasoned potato fans are filled with tender onions, roasted garlic cloves and savory Parmesan cheese. —Sharon Crabtree, Graham, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 potato: 302 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 195mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein.
Looking for the ultimate Fourth of July side dish? These seasoned potato “fans” are oozing with grilled onions and flavor.
19/45
Grilled Vegetable Platter
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is the best of summer in one dish! These pretty veggies are perfect for entertaining. Grilling brings out their natural sweetness, and the easy marinade really perks up the flavor. —Heidi Hall, North St. Paul, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 144 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 fat.
This classic summer dish is a fan favorite and we agree. The grilled colorful vegetables are almost too pretty to eat.
20/45
Patriotic Gelatin Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Almost as spectacular as the fireworks, this lovely salad makes quite a 'bang' at our July Fourth meal. It's exciting to serve, and our guests loved the cool fruity and creamy layers. This salad really added to my patriotic theme. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 206 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 75mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
Guests will love this jello salad that is full of fruit and creaminess in every bite. Not only is it delicious and refreshing, but its colors are undeniably patriotic.
21/45
Strawberry Arugula Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
The combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries and robust feta cheese may sound unusual, but one bite will win you over. —Carala Horne, Meridian, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 106 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 88mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
This salad combines peppery arugula with sweet strawberries and feta cheese. All these flavors coming together make this a tasty and pretty salad to enjoy on the Fourth of July.
22/45
Mom’s Tangy Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This colorful dish was a hit at a get-together I had for friends. I served the tart with sour cream on the side, a green salad and crusty bread. —Ellen Papa, Miami, Florida.
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 148 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 235mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
This hearty potato salad is a welcomed classic that’s ideal for this patriotic day. The homemade dressing makes it extra creamy and rich.
23/45
Tabbouleh
From the Recipe Creator:
Tabbouleh is a classic Middle Eastern salad. The fresh veggies and mint leaves make it light and refreshing on a hot day. —Michael & Mathil Chebat, Lake Ridge, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 100 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 164mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1/2 starch.
The fresh veggies and mint leaves in this classic middle eastern salad make it light and refreshing on a hot day. For the Fourth of July, you can’t go wrong with this tasty and cooling salad.
24/45
Creamy Coleslaw
From the Recipe Creator:
For me, this is the best coleslaw recipe because a package of shredded cabbage and carrots really cuts down on prep time. This coleslaw recipe is great for potlucks or to serve to your family on a busy weeknight. —Renee Endress, Galva, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 256 calories, 23g fat (5g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 398mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
This creamy coleslaw recipe is ideal for potlucks. It also makes for a spectacular dip for crackers and chips.
25/45
Pennsylvania Dutch Corn Pie
From the Recipe Creator:
This Pennsylvania Dutch corn pie is full of old-fashioned goodness, with tender diced potatoes and a fresh, sweet corn flavor. Once you've tasted this delicious pie, you'll never want to serve corn any other way! —Kathy Spang, Manheim, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 308 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 373mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
If you don’t want to serve corn on the cob this year, consider serving corn in a pie! This Pennsylvania Dutch corn pie has a sweet flavor from the corn, and the potatoes make it seem more indulgent than it actually is.
26/45
Slow-Cooker Pinto Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
I love pinto beans, but I always feel the flavor can easily turn too bland. I added a little this and a little that and came out with this amazing but easy slow-cooker pinto beans recipe. —Erica Vanderpool, Clarksville, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 203 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1043mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 9g fiber), 12g protein.
While pinto beans may seem boring on their own, the seasoning in this recipe elevates these beans to be a wonderful side dish option.
27/45
Tri-Color Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Tackle gatherings with a bright side dish. This tri-color pasta salad with broccoli, tomatoes, olives and a hardworking dressing is one of the easiest cold pasta salad recipes you could take. —Amanda Cable, Boxford, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 149 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 513mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
This tricolor pasta salad is loaded with broccoli, tomatoes and olives. The tangy dressing soaks into the noodles as it sits, making it a perfect quick and easy dish to set out for parties.
28/45
Ramen Coleslaw
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter gave me the recipe for this delightful salad. The sweet dressing nicely coats a crisp blend of broccoli slaw mix, onions, almonds and sunflower kernels. Crushed ramen noodles provide even more crunch. It's a smash hit wherever I take it. —Dora Mae Clapsaddle, Kensington, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 205 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 263mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
The sweet dressing in this recipe nicely coats a wonderfully crisp salad that is full of broccoli, onions and almonds. The crushed ramen noodles provide a delightful crunch.
29/45
Zucchini Patties
From the Recipe Creator:
These zucchini patties have a nice flavor and are compatible with just about any entree. My sister gave me this recipe and I, in turn, have given it to many of my friends. —Annabelle Cripe, Goshen, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
2 patties: 214 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 618mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
These zucchini patties are perfect for when you’re on-the-go and need to make something in a pinch. They also reheat well, so you can eat them for leftovers too.
30/45
Cowboy Caviar (Corn and Black Bean Salad)
From the Recipe Creator:
This colorful, crunchy black bean and corn salad is chock-full of nutrition that all ages love. Try it with a variety of summer entrees, or as a wholesome salsa! —Krista Frank, Rhododendron, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 167 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 244mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
This salad is colorful, crunchy and flavorful. The sweetness of the corn balances with the black beans quite well. You can also use this salad as a dip.
31/45
Barley Corn Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
A terrific alternative to pasta salad, this colorful side dish adds refreshing herb flavor to corn, barley, and red and green peppers. Bring it to your next get-together and see how fast it disappears! —Mary Ann Kieffer of Lawrence, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 156 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 202mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
This colorful side dish adds refreshing herb flavor to the corn, barley, and red and green peppers. When you bring it to your next July Fourth get-together, watch how fast it goes!
32/45
Corn ‘n’ Cucumbers Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This cucumber corn salad was one of my mother's recipes and I think of her whenever I make it. It's a nice change from a regular cucumber salad. —Jean Moore, Pliny, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 54 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 301mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch.
This recipe a nice change from a typical cucumber salad. The corn adds a pop of color and flavor.
33/45
Patriotic Potatoes with Mustard Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Show your true spirit with a bowl of red, white and blue potatoes dressed with bacon and sour cream. They’re tops in my hit parade of patriotic dishes. —Julie Murphy, Peachtree City, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
3 potatoes with about 2 tablespoons sauce: 300 calories, 19g fat (4g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 402mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
Show your American spirit with a bowl of red, white and blue potatoes loaded with savory bacon and rich sour cream. You won’t regret making this dish for your next Fourth of July party.
34/45
Bow Tie & Spinach Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
With pasta salad, it’s easy to change up ingredients. We like to add grilled chicken and pine nuts, and sometimes we substitute black beans for the garbanzo beans. —Julie Kirkpatrick, Billings, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
2 cups: 318 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 661mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 7g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
Your neighbors will love this pasta and spinach salad that you can customize to your liking. Feel free to change out the kind of beans or vegetables you’d like to use.
35/45
Fresh Heirloom Tomato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This tomato salad is a summertime must. A standout dressing takes the tasty ingredients to a brand-new level. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 74 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 35mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
This tomato salad is a summertime must and will be outstanding for a July Fourth cookout or potluck. A standout dressing takes the tasty ingredients to a brand-new level.
36/45
Slow-Cooker Sriracha Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
A restaurant here advertised Sriracha corn on the cob, but I knew I could make my own. The golden ears cooked up a little sweet, a little smoky and a little hot—perfect if you ask my three teenage boys! —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn: 209 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 287mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
Need a little heat? Look no further than these spicy ears that will be a crowd favorite for sure.
37/45
Lemon Orzo Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Heading to a potluck and need something to share? Tangy lemon dressing over cool orzo and vegetables is everything you want in a light side dish. —Terri Crandall, Gardnerville, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 259 calories, 19g fat (4g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 460mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
You can’t go wrong with a cooling dressing over veggies and orzo. This side dish is light, but refreshing on a hot day like July Fourth.
38/45
Juicy Watermelon Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This fruit salad has such a surprising yet fabulous mix of flavors that friends often ask for the recipe. Combine seedless watermelon varieties in yellow, red and pink for a colorful twist. —Heidi Haight, Macomb, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 232 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
This fruit salad is oh so juicy, and ready for you devour this summer. Combine seedless watermelon in different varieties of yellow, red and pink for a colorful twist.
39/45
Mixed Veggies and Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
To add variety to sides for those who don't care for potatoes, I came up with this colorful dish. It's an easy slow-cooker recipe that you can put right onto the buffet table. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 120 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 254mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
This healthy and nutritious dish is perfect for when you want something lighter. The fresh veggies in this recipe make it delicious and perfect for the summertime.
40/45
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I revamped my mother's potato salad to taste more like baked potatoes with all the fixin's, which I love. This loaded baked potato salad is now the most requested dish at family gatherings. Even my mother asked for the recipe! —Jackie Deckard, Solsberry, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 315 calories, 21g fat (7g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 587mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
Potato salad is a must-have dish at any summer gathering. This recipe brings flavors from a classic baked potato, like bacon, cheddar and sour cream, to a cool, easy-to-serve side dish.
41/45
Basil Grilled Corn on the Cob
From the Recipe Creator:
Corn on the cob is a comforting and cherished Midwest dish. It's amazing when grilled, and my recipe adds a few unexpected ingredients to make it taste even more like summertime. —Caitlin Dawson, Monroe, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn: 125 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 489mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
Corn on the cob by itself is great, but this recipe is out of this world. The additional basil and lemon make this dish a summertime showstopper.
42/45
Bacon Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This pleasing pasta salad is like eating a BLT in a bowl. Filled with crispy bacon, chopped tomato, celery and green onion, the sensational salad is coated with a tangy mayonnaise and vinegar dressing. It’s a real crowd-pleaser! —Norene Wright, Manilla, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 402 calories, 33g fat (6g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 622mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
This pasta salad is like eating a BLT in a bowl! It’s creamy, savory and full of fresh vegetables to keep you satisfied and happy.
43/45
Broccoli Slaw
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's my favorite twist on broccoli salad. It's so easy to make and has an irresistible tangy crunch. —Konny Thomas, Citrus Heights, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 225 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 325mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
This unique salad has a wonderful tangy crunch to it. The combination of broccoli, carrots and red cabbage is a game changer.
44/45
Turkey and Pasta Ranch Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy pasta salad is loaded with fresh veggies, and the classic ranch dressing makes it appealing to kids. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1-2/3 cups: 256 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 383mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
When it comes to summer, pasta salads are always a quick and easy dish to whip up. Every bite of this salad is full of veggies and you can’t resist the ranch dressing!
45/45
Macaroni Salad Recipe
From the Recipe Creator:
This macaroni salad recipe is a refreshingly light take on an all-time favorite. It's perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a festive weekend barbecue. —Dorothy Bayes, Sardis, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 115 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 362mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
A creamy macaroni salad is a picnic and cookout classic. This recipe sticks to traditional ingredients, like crunchy celery, onion and hard-boiled egg, with a lightened-up mayonnaise-based dressing spiked with pickle relish, ground mustard and just enough sugar for a sweet edge.
Fourth of July Side Dishes FAQ
What are some easy side dishes for a Fourth of July barbecue?
Easy Fourth of July side dishes include cold pasta salads, slaws and no-cook dips that can be prepped ahead and served straight from the refrigerator. Choose recipes with minimal ingredients and quick assembly, where everything can be tossed together at once or layered on a platter. Sides that don’t require reheating are ideal for hot weather and busy cookouts. If you’re short on time, store-bought shortcuts like prepared salad dressings, chopped veggies or rotisserie chicken make a simple recipe even easier.
What are some good vegetarian side dishes for the Fourth of July?
Although the Fourth of July can be a meat-heavy day, there are lots of plant-based vegetarian Fourth of July recipes, like fresh salads, grilled corn and make-ahead dips. Try a marinated white bean salad, grilled halloumi with watermelon or a smoky eggplant dip like baba ganoush. Dishes made with beans, grains or cheese are filling enough to work as meat-free mains, too. For cookouts, veggie skewers are always a hit with vegetarians and meat-eaters.
Are there gluten-free Fourth of July side dish options?
There are plenty of gluten-free Fourth of July recipes focusing on seasonal fruits and vegetables that you can make for crowd-pleasing holiday sides. Include naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled vegetable platters, potato recipes, corn salads and coleslaw that hit classic Fourth of July flavors. For something heartier, try a quinoa tabbouleh or use gluten-free pasta in a macaroni salad. Always check condiments and packaged ingredients for hidden sources of gluten to be on the safe side.
