Today I’m sharing a collection of our family’s favorite summer side dishes—perfect for the 4th of July, picnics, and barbecues. From baked beans and potato salad to pasta salads and coleslaw, these tried-and-true recipes are easy to make and always crowd-pleasers.
Click any photo to view the full recipe post.
First up are my sister’s famous baked beans—Anastasia’s Best-Ever Baked Beans. This is one of our most requested recipes and a must for summer gatherings.
Anastasia’s Best-Ever Baked Beans
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is next—simple to prepare and something we make year-round. It’s the coleslaw I always use on pulled pork sandwiches and serve at every barbecue.
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
My great-grandma’s cucumber salad—Grandma B’s Cucumber Salad—was served at every barbecue when I was growing up. It’s a refreshing way to use fresh cucumbers from the garden or farmers’ market.
Grandma B’s Cucumber Salad
For a classic favorite, try this Old-Fashioned Potato Salad. Adapted from Ina Garten, it’s our go-to potato salad and the steaming tip for potatoes makes all the difference.
Old-Fashioned Potato Salad
Potato and Green Bean Salad, from my friend Sandi, is another family favorite—light, bright, and ideal for warm-weather meals.
Potato and Green Bean Salad
The Best-Ever Amish Macaroni Salad is a childhood favorite—creamy, comforting, and a reliable hit at any potluck.
Best-Ever Amish Macaroni Salad
One of my most requested salads for over twenty years is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—always an empty bowl by the end of the meal.
My Most Requested Salad Recipe
Mixed Berry Salad is another summer favorite from my sister—fresh, colorful, and quick to toss together.
Mixed Berry Salad
For a pasta salad with character, try this Pasta Salad with a Twist—one of our long-time favorites that brings a unique flavor to the table.
Pasta Salad with a Twist
If you love spinach and strawberries, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is as delicious as it looks—bright flavors perfect for summer.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Looking for quick appetizers to round out your spread? Check out these tried-and-true options that are fast to assemble and always well-received.
15 Fast and Easy Favorite Party Appetizers
Wishing you a safe and wonderful 4th of July. Thanks for stopping by—enjoy the recipes and happy cooking!
Cheers!