43/44
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
20 min
Servings
9 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The first time I tasted this delicious salad was at my wedding, and I recall, even in the blur of that day, the recipe was in high demand. That was years ago and I'm still asked to bring it to cookouts and parties! —Sarah Ryan, Geneva, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 273 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 817mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
This Italian pasta salad is packed with all the good stuff. I’m talking big chunks of creamy cheese, crunchy bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives and bold cured meats—everything you need for a light yet filling meal.
44/44
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom and I make this together. We use lots of fresh veggies, a light lemony dressing and salty, creamy feta to top it off. It's great for healthy lunches throughout the week. —Ali Bonsor, Kalispell, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 118 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 210mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
While this vegetarian chickpea salad is a satisfying side all on its own, you could toss in some chicken breast, poached salmon or tofu to make the meal heartier and boost the protein quota at the same time. Kalamata olives or fresh avocado can also contribute some brininess or creaminess to your salad.
Memorial Day Side Dishes FAQ
What sides are traditionally served on Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is the perfect opportunity to showcase grilled favorites along with an array of sides. Consider corn on the cob with an herby compound flavored butter, crisp crudités platters, colorful salads bursting with in-season produce and creamy, cool pasta salads that provide delicious leftovers for the next day. If you’re open to a bit of decadence and some comfort food classics, we highly recommend our recipes for homemade potato chips, smoky baked beans, and southern mac and cheese.
What are some easy dishes to bring to a Memorial Day gathering?
Dishes that travel well are key. These include make-ahead pasta salads you can transport in tin foil trays or sealed containers for ease. Coleslaw is a crunchy side that pairs well with grilled meats, while Caprese skewers are simple and always a hit. Another fun idea is Mason jar salads, where the dressing is on the bottom of the jar and the rest of the ingredients are on top. All you have to do is shake them up when you arrive.
What are the best make-ahead side dishes for an outdoor event?
Some of the best make-ahead side dishes for an outdoor event include potato salad, coleslaw, corn salad, fruit salad and grilled vegetable kabobs. Prepare these dishes in advance, store them in the fridge, and serve them cold or at room temperature—they’re ideal for easy outdoor dining.
