On lazy summer days, when it feels like all you can muster is a one-dish dinner, these speedy sides featuring seasonal vegetables are an absolute savior: simple salads, grilled vegetables, and quick-cooking couscous. They require only a bit more effort, and suddenly dinner feels like a real meal (maybe even worthy of guests!).
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RecipeTaco Slaw
Whenever you make fajitas or tacos, this fresh, simple, crunchy slaw is the perfect way to finish them: shredded cabbage and carrot, plus scallions, cilantro if you have it around, then lime juice, salt, and just a spoonful of mayonnaise. -
RecipeTomato and Sweet Onion Salad
Show off your best summer tomatoes with this quick and easy side salad. -
RecipeCreamed Corn with Shallots
Forget canned or frozen creamed corn. Once you try this version, made with fresh corn, shallots, butter, and cream, you’ll never go back. Remove as much of the flavorful corn “milk” from the cob as possible for the best flavor.
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RecipeShaved Squash Carpaccio with Capers and Ricotta Salata
Refreshing and light, this is a perfect first course for a summer dinner. Make it up to a few hours in advance, keeping it covered and chilled and adding the salt, pepper, cheese, and capers just before serving. -
RecipeRadish & Avocado Salad with Buttermilk Dressing
This creamy homemade dressing is better than any bottled ranch. Show it off on this simple green salad and serve with barbecued ribs, chicken, or pulled pork. -
RecipeTomatoes and Burrata with Tapenade
Burrata (a fresh Italian cheese similar to mozzarella but with a creamy center) is a luscious addition to this updated Caprese salad. If you can’t find it, use fresh mozzarella.
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RecipeMixed Green Salad with Olives, Serrano Ham, and Sherry Vinaigrette
The flavors of Spain--Serrano ham, sherry vinegar, manchego cheese--give this salad its character.
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RecipeCouscous with Corn and Blue Cheese
In this one-pot side dish, couscous is cooked with fresh corn to soak up its sweet flavor. A touch of cayenne and crumbled blue cheese add heat and tang.
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RecipeSuper Simple Cucumber Salad
This salad is excellent served grilled kebabs or lamb, or with the roasted salmon with dill cream.
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RecipeGratinéed Tomatoes with Asiago and Fresh Herbs
Slices of ripe tomato are sprinkled with cheesy, herb-flecked breadcrumbs and then quickly run them under the broiler until the crumbs are browned and crisp. They make a great pairing with grilled or broiled steak or chicken.
