Not-So-Humble Side Dishes

It's Grill-out Season! Who doesn't love a great summer potluck? Easy grilled meats, sometimes right out of the package, condiments galore, and a mayonnaise-y side dish to go alongside.

This summer, step out of your summer BBQ rut and try this tomato burrata peach salad or grilled corn salad.  Is vodka lemonade a side dish?  We think so, and included it here.

These fresh, easy, no-stove side dishes will compliment a humble hot dog, a hearty tri-tip or elegant grilled salmon.

Recipes by Lauren Lane Culinarian 

For more recipes follow her at:

Blog: Lauren-Lane.com

Instagram: @Lauren_Lane_Culinarian

Tomato Peach Burrata Salad

YIELD: Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

• A few big pinches of Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 2 teaspoons fresh oregano

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 large heirloom tomatoes or large plum tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes. (about 2 1/2 pounds total)

• Two peaches

• 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or small balls

• 4 ounces burrata cheese

• 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves plus additional whole leaves for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

• Combine salt through olive oil. 

• Place the burrata cheese round on a platter. Arrange the tomatoes, peaches and mozzarella balls around cheese. 

• Drizzle with dressing from bowl. Sprinkle with more salt and pepper. Garnish with additional basil leaves and serve.

 

Grilled Corn Salad

YIELD: Serves 4-6

INGREDIENTS

• 2 ears corn, grilled and cut from the cob 

• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced into rings

• 1/4 cup fresh feta or goat cheese, crumbled

• 3 sprigs basil, leaves removed and torn

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• Black pepper to taste

• Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

• Place corn kernels into a bowl with the rest of the ingredients and stir to combine.

• Taste, and re-season with salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste

Pitcher Vodka Lemonade

YIELD: Makes six cocktails

INGREDIENTS

• 48 ounces homemade lemonade (or store-bought)

• 12 ounces vodka

• Ice, for serving

• 1 lemon, sliced thinly

• Fresh mint for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

• Make the lemonade or pour store-bought in a pitcher.

• Add vodka and lemon slices (can be made the day before).

• To serve: pour cocktail over ice and garnish with fresh mint.