Summer Salads

Summer is all about fun, sun, food, and laughter of course! Going on a vacation, having a backyard party, and grilling is number one on the list, so when you […]

Summer Salads

Summer is all about fun, sun, food, and laughter of course! Going on a vacation, having a backyard party, and grilling is number one on the list, so when you think about the grilled meats, what is next? The sides.

     I have been to many BBQ’s where they have served grilled hot dogs, burgers and not one side. To me the side dishes are just as important as the main dish because they make a well-rounded meal, and it complements the meat. Chips are not a side dish, lol, nor are desserts.

     While planning your party assign duties like have the grill master bring charcoal, lighter fluid, grill tools and meat. Have the host be responsible for the beverages and have your aunts bring the sides and the kids the desserts. This way everyone gets a chore that is in their line of expertise.

     So, let us pretend I am your aunt, and I am going to let you know what type of sides I would bring to your BBQ.

  1. Tossed salad – I know you think this is a diet food, but you will be surprised how well salads do at a party. The guests love them!

  1. Chicken salad – this is meat and can be a main dish, but most parties start late, and the guests are hangry, so this can be a great party starter.

  1. Pasta salads – these salads can be made with leftover turkey or chicken, or deli sliced meat and a few veggies and cheese. You can season with salt, pepper, and olive oil or a store-bought salad dressing.

  1. Potato salad – this is a must and a plus at a BBQ. Potato salad can be made 101 ways, hot or cold, with or without onions, you decide.

My mother made the best potato salad, and this is one of a few things I can 100 percent make just like her. There isnt any special ingredients but it is just the flick of the wrist I guess, lol. It is a combination of tangy and bold flavors.

     Here is the recipe and a how to video as well!

Bonnie’s Potato salad

*I do not measure anything, so this is an estimate.

5 large russet potatoes

About 1 cup of mayonnaise

About 1 ½ cup of Miricle whip

About 1/3 cup of sweet relish

A few squeezes of yellow mustard

About 2 tablespoons of white sugar

Fresh ground black pepper

3 boiled eggs (2 diced and 1 in slices)

Paprika for decoration

Peel, chop, and Boil potatoes until tender, drain and add all ingredients to a large bowl except 1 sliced egg and paprika.

Slightly mash potatoes and mix all ingredients, pour in a serving bowl, smooth out the top, slice the last egg and place on the top and sprinkle with paprika.

Enjoy your summer!

Nicole Gamble (Nikki)