Summertime calls for light, refreshing meals that nourish your body. A rotisserie chicken is a versatile protein that’s both convenient and healthy. To maximize the benefits of the season, we’ve found five side dish recipes that showcase the best of summer produce while complementing your chicken perfectly. These dishes are not only flavorful but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
1. Grilled Corn Salad with Cilantro and Lime
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, grilled or roasted
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cut corn kernels from the cob.
- In a large bowl, combine corn, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss to coat and serve immediately.
2. Mediterranean Orzo Salad
This Mediterranean-inspired orzo salad is a perfect summer side that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta, cooked according to package directions
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh mint and dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine cooked orzo, cucumber, bell pepper, feta cheese, and olives in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Stir in fresh mint and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Roasted Summer Vegetable Medley
This versatile side dish can be customized with your favorite summer vegetables.
Ingredients:
- Assorted summer vegetables (such as zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes)
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss vegetables with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
4. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
This elegant side dish is perfect for a summer dinner party or a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Grill asparagus for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- Squeeze lemon juice over grilled asparagus and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Cucumber Avocado Salad
This creamy and refreshing salad is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy summer produce.
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine cucumber, avocado, and red onion in a bowl.
- Whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Love these recipes? Want more delicious and nutritious meal ideas? Join the OSI Eat Strong Nutrition Accountability Group for just $25/month (3 month minimum commitment) and get personalized support, meal planning guidance, and accountability to help you reach your health and wellness goals. Plus, you’ll gain access to a supportive community of like-minded individuals, weekly educational resources, and monthly check-in calls.
Ready to make a change? Contact us today to learn more!
Kat Entwistle
Kat is the in-house nutrition coach at OSI. She believes that life is too short to eat food you don't like. She helps her clients cut through all the "noise" and establish long term sustainable nutrition habits that will last them a lifetime! Schedule a complementary discovery call with her today!
