By Danielle McLaughlin
When the weather warms up, fruits and vegetables are in abundance! This is a great opportunity to ditch those mayonnaise covered, barbecue side dishes (although they are delicious) and opt for something a little more waistline friendly. Below are some tried and true healthy summer side dishes.
Corn and Black Bean Salsa
15 Minutes
Servings: 5 to 6
This is good on its own, or with grilled chicken, shrimp or steak, or served on top of grilled bread.
1 green bell pepper
1 red bell pepper
1 lime
6 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1 medium red onion
1 can of black beans
1 bag of frozen corn (steamable bag)
Salt and pepper to taste
In a microwave, steam the corn. Set it aside to cool.
On a cutting board, chop the peppers, cilantro and red onion. Place in a bowl.
Using a strainer or colander, rinse and drain the black beans. Stir them into the bowl with the chopped vegetables and add the corn.
With your hand or a hand-held juicer, juice the lime over the mixture.
Season to taste with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
Mix well and enjoy!
Watermelon Feta Salad
15 Minutes
Servings: 5 to 6
This is great as a side dish or an appetizer. I love it because it’s a great combination of sweet and salty!
1/2 watermelon, cubed
4 ounces crumbled feta
1/4 cup basil, chopped
1/2 lime, juiced
Balsamic glaze
Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
In a large bowl, cube the watermelon. Combine with the crumbled feta cheese.
With your hand or a hand-held juicer, juice the lime, and sprinkle the lime juice over the mixture.
Season the salad to taste with salt and pepper.
In the bowl, mix everything together and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Serve and enjoy!