21 Labor Day Sides So Simple, You’ll Wonder Why You Ever Stressed About Hosting

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If you’re tired of stressing over what to serve, these Labor Day side dishes will change your game. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can pull together sides that impress without the hassle. Forget complicated recipes—these easy sides let you focus on what really matters: good company.

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

7 Layer Salad Recipe

Seven layer salad in a bowl.
7 Layer Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This classic 7 Layer Salad is a staple for Labor Day gatherings thanks to its colorful layers and straightforward assembly. It comes together quickly and adds a fresh, crunchy side that pairs well with grilled favorites.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad Recipe

Cherry Salad

Cherry fluff salad in blue bowls with whipped cream.
Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Cherry Salad fits right into easy Labor Day sides with just six ingredients and a quick prep time. Its bright, sweet flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for casual cookouts and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Ramen Noodle Salad

Three white bowls filled with ramen noodles and vegetables.
Ramen Noodle Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

With crunchy cabbage and a savory dressing, this Ramen Noodle Salad brings a refreshing crunch to any Labor Day spread. It’s simple to make ahead and adds a bit of Asian-inspired flavor without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle Salad

Peach Caprese Salad

A platter of salad featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced peaches, basil leaves, and chopped red onions, garnished with black pepper.
Peach Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Peach Caprese Salad adds a fresh twist to the classic by using juicy peaches, making it a cool and no-cook option for Labor Day. It’s quick to prepare and looks great on the table, perfect for hot weather gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Peach Caprese Salad

Broccoli Slaw

A bowl of Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli Slaw. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This creamy Broccoli Slaw delivers crunch and flavor with minimal prep, making it a great side for Labor Day cookouts. The combination of crisp veggies and dressing is easy to throw together and pairs well with grilled dishes.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw

Blueberry Caprese Salad

Salad with tomatoes, blueberries and mozzarella stars.
Blueberry Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Blueberry Caprese Salad brings a fresh and colorful option to your Labor Day lineup. Combining berries, mozzarella, and tomatoes, it’s a simple side that adds a festive touch without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Caprese Salad

Chickpea Salad

Healthy chickpea salad in a blue bowl.
Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Chickpea Salad is a fresh, veggie-packed side that’s easy to make ahead for Labor Day gatherings. Its simple ingredients and bright flavors make it a great choice for a laid-back cookout.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad

Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad

Orzo pasta salad in a blue flowered bowl.
Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad is light and quick to prepare, making it a smart pick for Labor Day sides. The lemon and basil brighten the tender orzo, creating a refreshing dish that’s easy to bring along.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad

Watergate Salad

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Watergate Salad is a creamy, nutty side that’s perfect for making ahead of Labor Day cookouts. With just five ingredients, it’s a no-fuss option that appeals to both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Lime Jello Salad

Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Lime Jello Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Lime Jello Salad adds a playful, retro touch to any Labor Day meal. Its bright, tangy flavor and simple prep make it a fun addition to picnic spreads and outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad

Cajun Pasta Salad

Cajun pasta salad of noodles with celery and bell pepper.
Cajun Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Cajun Pasta Salad spices up your Labor Day menu with bell peppers, celery, and a creamy remoulade dressing. It’s a flavorful side that’s easy to make ahead and adds a bit of kick to your cookout.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta Salad

Tortellini Pasta Salad

A bowl of tortellini pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, basil, red onions, and a pesto dressing. A spoon is placed on the side of the dish.
Tortellini Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Tortellini Pasta Salad is a filling side packed with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and pesto, making it a solid choice for Labor Day gatherings. It’s simple to prepare in advance and holds up well for outdoor meals.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Pasta Salad

Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Top view of a bowl of coleslaw with blue cheese on top.
Blue Cheese Coleslaw. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Blue Cheese Coleslaw adds a tangy twist to the classic with a creamy dressing that stands out at any Labor Day cookout. It’s quick to toss together and brings bold flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Pickle Pasta Salad

Bowl of pasta salad with rotini, diced red onion, pickles, dill, and creamy dressing, placed on a red-checked cloth.
Pickle Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Pickle Pasta Salad brings a tangy edge to your Labor Day spread with dill pickles and creamy dressing. It’s a make-ahead side that’s ready fast and adds something different to the usual pasta salads.
Get the Recipe: Pickle Pasta Salad

Spicy Cucumber Salad

A white bowl of sliced cucumbers topped with chili oil and chopped green onions, with a pair of chopsticks resting on the bowl. A garlic bulb and a cloth are nearby.
Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Spicy Cucumber Salad mixes crisp cucumbers with chili crisp for a refreshing side that wakes up your taste buds. It’s ready in 15 minutes and adds a lively contrast to grilled meats at any cookout.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Cucumber Salad

A bowl of cucumber salad with dill and red onions, dressed in a creamy sauce, on a wooden table beside a wooden spoon and jars.
Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This creamy Cucumber Salad comes together quickly with just seven ingredients, making it a smart pick for Labor Day sides. Its tangy dill dressing and crisp cucumbers make it a light, easy dish to prepare ahead.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad

Ambrosia Salad

Glass bowl of ambrosia salad.
Ambrosia Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Ambrosia Salad combines whipped topping, fruit, coconut, and marshmallows for a sweet, retro-style side that fits right into Labor Day potlucks. It’s simple to make and brings a nostalgic touch to the table.
Get the Recipe: Ambrosia Salad

Amish Macaroni Salad

Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish Macaroni Salad is a creamy, slightly sweet side that’s a reliable choice for Labor Day gatherings. Its straightforward ingredients and easy prep make it a go-to for cookouts and casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Orange Fluff Salad

Orange fluff salad in a bowl.
Orange Fluff Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Orange Fluff Salad brings a light, fluffy texture and bright citrus flavor to your Labor Day lineup. This vintage-inspired side is quick to whip up and adds a cheerful note to any outdoor meal.
Get the Recipe: Orange Fluff Salad

Potato Salad

Potato and egg salad in a blue striped bowl.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This classic Potato Salad features potatoes, eggs, and sweet gherkins for a no-fail side that’s perfect for Labor Day cookouts. It’s easy to prepare and a familiar favorite that pairs well with grilled dishes.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Broccoli Crunch Salad

A close shot of a fork full of broccoli salad.
Broccoli Crunch Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Broccoli Crunch Salad combines raw broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon for a mix of textures that works well at Labor Day picnics. It’s simple to make and brings a fresh, crunchy option to the table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Texas Caviar

Texas caviar on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Texas Caviar is a colorful mix of black-eyed peas, beans, and veggies that’s perfect for scooping with chips at any Labor Day cookout. It’s hearty, fresh, and easy to prepare ahead, making it a crowd-pleasing starter or side.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar

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