{"id":6164,"date":"2025-04-01T10:03:30","date_gmt":"2025-04-01T10:03:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/memorial-day-side-dishes-recipes\/"},"modified":"2025-04-01T10:03:31","modified_gmt":"2025-04-01T10:03:31","slug":"memorial-day-side-dishes-recipes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/memorial-day-side-dishes-recipes\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Flavorful Memorial Day Side Dishes Recipes Crowd-Pleasing"},"content":{"rendered":"
As Memorial Day approaches, many of us are gearing up for a weekend of outdoor gatherings and BBQs with friends and family. And while main courses like burgers and hot dogs get plenty of attention, let’s not forget about the sides! A delicious and well-rounded lineup of side dishes can elevate your Memorial Day feast from good to great.<\/p>\n
To help you do just that, we’ve rounded up 20 flavorful and crowd-pleasing side dish recipes that are sure to impress. From classic coleslaw to creative twists like grilled corn with chili lime butter and fresh watermelon feta salad, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or bringing a dish to pass at your neighbor’s party, we’ve got you covered.<\/p>\n
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these tasty recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and inspiration for making them shine. So grab a plate, get ready to fire up the grill, and let’s get started on planning the perfect Memorial Day spread!<\/p>\n
\nAdd a tangy twist to your BBQs and picnics with this timeless coleslaw recipe. A creamy dressing brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage, carrots, and onions.<\/p>\n
Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 2 cups shredded cabbage Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrot, and onion. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-15 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chilling)<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-12 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 4 large baked potatoes, cooled and diced Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-15 minutes (depending on cooling time)<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat oven to 250\u00b0F. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 6 hours<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 2 cups diced fresh watermelon Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese. Cooking Time:<\/strong> None! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat oven to 425\u00b0F (220\u00b0C). Cooking Time:<\/strong> 20-25 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong> Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 25-30 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, mushrooms) Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-12 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 2 ripe avocados, diced Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, tomatoes, and cucumber. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 12 large jalape\u00f1o peppers Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C). Cooking Time:<\/strong> 25-30 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 1 1\/2 cups warm water Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 15-20 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 8 oz. bowtie pasta Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 15-20 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-12 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 1 loaf of French bread (14 inches) Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat your oven to 350\u00b0F (180\u00b0C). Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-12 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong> Honey Mustard Dressing:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, black beans, kidney beans, cannellini beans, bell peppers, and red onion. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne) Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 15-20 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 1 pound fresh asparagus spears Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 8-10 minutes<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 2-3 large potatoes Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C). Cooking Time:<\/strong> Approximately 15-20 minutes per batch<\/p>\n Ingredients:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves Poppyseed Dressing:<\/strong><\/p>\n – 2 tablespoons olive oil Instructions:<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries. Cooking Time:<\/strong> 10-15 minutes<\/p>\n Get ready to impress your Memorial Day guests with these 20 flavorful side dishes! From classic creamy coleslaw and grilled corn on the cob to tangy BBQ baked beans and sweet and spicy bacon-wrapped jalape\u00f1os, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find refreshing salads like fresh watermelon feta and avocado tomato cucumber, as well as comforting crowd-pleasers like loaded baked potato salad and southern-style mac and cheese. Whether you’re a fan of grilled veggies or cheesy garlic bread, these recipes are sure to be a hit.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As Memorial Day approaches, many of us are gearing up for a weekend of outdoor gatherings and BBQs with friends and family. And while main courses like burgers and hot dogs get plenty of attention, let’s not forget about the sides! A delicious and well-rounded lineup of side dishes can elevate your Memorial Day feast … Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5479,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6164","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dinner"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6164","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6164"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6164\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6165,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6164\/revisions\/6165"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5479"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6164"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6164"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/recipes-for-life.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6164"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\n– 1 cup grated carrot
\n– 1\/2 cup chopped onion
\n– 1\/4 cup mayonnaise
\n– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
\n– 1 tablespoon sugar
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
\n3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
\n4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
\n5. Serve chilled.<\/p>\nGrilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter<\/h2>\n
\nGet ready to elevate your grilling game with this simple and flavorful recipe! This sweet and spicy corn dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.<\/p>\n
\n– 1\/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
\n– 2 tablespoons chili powder
\n– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Optional: cotija cheese crumbles or chopped cilantro for garnish<\/p>\n
\n2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, chili powder, and lime juice until well combined.
\n3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn, making sure to coat all surfaces.
\n4. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
\n5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n6. Garnish with cotija cheese crumbles or chopped cilantro if desired.<\/p>\nLoaded Baked Potato Salad<\/h2>\n
\nGet ready to elevate your potato salad game with this creamy, flavorful, and indulgent twist on a classic! This loaded baked potato salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for any meal.<\/p>\n
\n– 1\/2 cup mayonnaise
\n– 1\/4 cup sour cream
\n– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
\n– 1 teaspoon paprika
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
\n– 1\/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
\n– 1\/2 cup diced green onions
\n– 1\/2 cup diced tomatoes<\/p>\n
\n2. Stir in the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, and diced tomatoes.
\n3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
\n4. Serve chilled.<\/p>\nTangy BBQ Baked Beans<\/h2>\n
\nElevate your backyard barbecue with these sweet and tangy baked beans that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With a perfect balance of smoky flavor, tanginess, and sweetness, this recipe is a must-have for any summer gathering.<\/p>\n
\n– 1 onion, chopped
\n– 2 cloves garlic, minced
\n– 1 cup ketchup
\n– 1\/4 cup brown sugar
\n– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
\n– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
\n– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
\n– 1\/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. In a large Dutch oven, combine beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n3. Cover the pot with aluminum foil and bake for 6 hours or until the beans are tender and slightly caramelized.
\n4. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.<\/p>\nFresh Watermelon Feta Salad<\/h2>\n
\nA refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, perfect for hot weather gatherings.<\/p>\n
\n– 1\/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
\n– 1\/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
\n– 2 tablespoons olive oil
\n– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the top of the salad.
\n3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
\n4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.<\/p>\nGarlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes<\/h2>\n
\nElevate your side dish game with these crispy, flavorful potatoes infused with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.<\/p>\n
\n– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
\n– 1\/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
\n– 2 tablespoons olive oil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)<\/p>\n
\n2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until coated.
\n3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
\n4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
\n5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
\n6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.<\/p>\nSouthern-Style Mac and Cheese<\/h2>\n
\nThis creamy, cheesy macaroni dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it’s sure to become a favorite.<\/p>\n
\n– 8 oz macaroni
\n– 2 cups milk
\n– 1 cup heavy cream
\n– 2 tablespoons butter
\n– 1\/2 cup all-purpose flour
\n– 1 teaspoon paprika
\n– Salt and pepper, to taste
\n– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work best)
\n– 1\/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
\n– Optional: crispy bacon bits or chopped scallions for topping<\/p>\n
\n2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
\n3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
\n4. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
\n5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
\n7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.<\/p>\nGrilled Vegetable Skewers<\/h2>\n
\nAdd a pop of color and flavor to your meals with these easy-to-make Grilled Vegetable Skewers! With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy snack or side dish.<\/p>\n
\n– 2 tablespoons olive oil
\n– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
\n– 1 clove garlic, minced
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– 10 bamboo skewers<\/p>\n
\n2. Thread vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
\n3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
\n4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the vegetable skewers.
\n5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n6. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.<\/p>\nAvocado Tomato Cucumber Salad<\/h2>\n
\nThis vibrant salad is a perfect blend of creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers, all brought together with a hint of tanginess. A great side dish or light lunch option for warm weather.<\/p>\n
\n– 2 large tomatoes, diced
\n– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
\n– 1\/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
\n– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)<\/p>\n
\n2. Add the thinly sliced red onion and toss gently to combine.
\n3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
\n4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
\n5. Serve immediately and enjoy!<\/p>\nSweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Jalape\u00f1os<\/h2>\n
\nThese sweet and spicy treats combine the crunch of crispy bacon with the heat of jalape\u00f1os, all wrapped up in a flavorful package.<\/p>\n
\n– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
\n– 1\/4 cup brown sugar
\n– 2 tablespoons honey
\n– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
\n– 1\/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. Cut the jalape\u00f1os in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
\n3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
\n4. Wrap each jalape\u00f1o half with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
\n5. Place the wrapped jalape\u00f1os on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
\n6. Sprinkle the sweet and spicy mixture evenly over the bacon-wrapped jalape\u00f1os.
\n7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.<\/p>\nHerb-Buttered Dinner Rolls<\/h2>\n
\nElevate your dinner game with these fragrant and flavorful herb-buttered dinner rolls, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals. With a hint of rosemary and thyme, these buttery treats are sure to impress.<\/p>\n
\n– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
\n– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
\n– 1 teaspoon sugar
\n– 4 cups all-purpose flour
\n– 1\/2 cup chopped fresh rosemary and thyme
\n– Salt, to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
\n3. Add melted butter, flour, rosemary, thyme, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
\n4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
\n5. Place dough on the prepared baking sheet, shaping into desired rolls.
\n6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.<\/p>\nCaprese Pasta Salad<\/h2>\n
\nThis refreshing Caprese pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a summer staple.<\/p>\n
\n– 1 large tomato, diced
\n– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
\n– 1\/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
\n– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)<\/p>\n
\n2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomato and sliced mozzarella cheese.
\n3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the tomatoes and cheese.
\n4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with chopped basil.
\n5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n6. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.<\/p>\nDeviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika<\/h2>\n
\nElevate your classic deviled eggs with the deep, smoky flavor of smoked paprika. This recipe adds a new dimension to a party favorite.<\/p>\n
\n– 1\/2 cup mayonnaise
\n– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
\n– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish (optional)<\/p>\n
\n2. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth, then stir in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
\n3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
\n4. Garnish with chopped chives or additional smoked paprika, if desired.<\/p>\nGrilled Pineapple Salsa<\/h2>\n
\nSweet and tangy, this Grilled Pineapple Salsa is the perfect topping for your next backyard BBQ or taco night. The caramelized pineapple adds a depth of flavor that will elevate any dish.<\/p>\n
\n– 1\/2 red onion, diced
\n– 1 jalape\u00f1o pepper, seeded and finely chopped
\n– 1\/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems, chopped
\n– 2 tablespoons lime juice
\n– Salt to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. Grill pineapple chunks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
\n3. In a bowl, combine grilled pineapple, red onion, jalape\u00f1o pepper, and cilantro.
\n4. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt to taste.
\n5. Serve warm or at room temperature.<\/p>\nCheesy Garlic Bread<\/h2>\n
\nThis classic comfort food recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a deliciously cheesy and aromatic bread in no time!<\/p>\n
\n– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
\n– 1\/2 cup of butter, softened
\n– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese (divided)
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise.
\n3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
\n4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly onto each bread half, leaving a 1\/2-inch border around the edges.
\n5. Sprinkle 1\/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese over each bread half.
\n6. Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
\n7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining 1\/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese.<\/p>\nThree-Bean Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing<\/h2>\n
\nThis hearty salad combines the flavors of three types of beans, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy honey mustard dressing, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
\n\u2022 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
\n\u2022 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
\n\u2022 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
\n\u2022 1 cup diced bell peppers
\n\u2022 1\/2 cup chopped red onion
\n\u2022 1\/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
\n\u2022 1\/4 cup honey mustard dressing (see below)<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 1 tablespoon honey
\n\u2022 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar<\/p>\n
\n2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to make the dressing.
\n3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
\n4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
\n5. Serve immediately.<\/p>\nBacon Ranch Pasta Salad<\/h2>\n
\nA creamy and savory pasta salad that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and fresh vegetables.<\/p>\n
\n– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
\n– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
\n– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
\n– 1\/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
\n– 1\/4 cup ranch dressing
\n– 2 tbsp. olive oil
\n– Salt and pepper to taste
\n– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)<\/p>\n
\n2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
\n3. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and olive oil. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
\n4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
\n6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.<\/p>\nGrilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest<\/h2>\n
\nThis simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus, perfectly balanced by a burst of citrusy flavor from lemon zest. Perfect for springtime gatherings or everyday meals.<\/p>\n
\n– 2 tablespoons olive oil
\n– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
\n– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
\n– Salt and pepper to taste<\/p>\n
\n2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
\n3. Place asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
\n4. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with lemon juice and zest.
\n5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
\n6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.<\/p>\nHomemade Potato Chips with Rosemary Salt<\/h2>\n
\nTransform plain potato chips into a gourmet snack by infusing them with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and salt. This simple recipe yields crispy, flavorful chips perfect for snacking or pairing with your favorite dips.<\/p>\n
\n– 1\/4 cup rosemary leaves (fresh or dried)
\n– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
\n– Vegetable oil for frying<\/p>\n
\n2. Peel and slice the potatoes into very thin rounds, using a mandoline if possible.
\n3. In a bowl, mix together rosemary leaves and kosher salt.
\n4. Carefully add potato slices to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd.
\n5. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
\n6. Remove chips from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
\n7. Sprinkle rosemary salt mixture evenly over the warm chips.<\/p>\nStrawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing<\/h2>\n
\nThis refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the earthy flavor of spinach, all tied together with a tangy poppyseed dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner!<\/p>\n
\n– 1 pint sliced strawberries
\n– 1\/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
\n– 1\/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
\n– Poppyseed Dressing (recipe below)<\/p>\n
\n– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
\n– 1 tablespoon honey
\n– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
\n– 1\/2 teaspoon poppy seeds<\/p>\n
\n2. If using, sprinkle feta cheese and chopped pecans on top of the salad.
\n3. Whisk together Poppyseed Dressing ingredients until smooth.
\n4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
\n5. Serve immediately and enjoy!<\/p>\nSummary<\/h2>\n