Description
A collection of vibrant and delicious cookout side dishes perfect for summer gatherings, from fresh salads to savory grilled veggies.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen and thawed)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, corn, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine. Chill before serving.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and cool. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, celery, and red bell pepper. Combine with the macaroni and mix well. Chill for 1 hour before serving.
- In a serving bowl, combine watermelon, feta cheese, and mint. Drizzle with lime juice and gently toss. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, in-season produce for the best flavor.
- You can make the pasta salad a day ahead for convenience.
- Add grilled vegetables or beans to enhance variety and nutrition.
- Watermelon salad is best served fresh to avoid excess wateriness.