Labor Day calls for sides that can steal the show. Think crunchy chopped greens, creamy pasta twists, and juicy fruit bowls that play nice with burgers, ribs, and brats. Pick a couple, prep them early, and expect zero leftovers.
Layered Salad
Hosting for Labor Day? This layered salad is the stress saver your cookout needs. Pile on crisp lettuce, fresh veggies, and salty bacon, then finish with that creamy mayo dressing everyone loves. Make it ahead and keep it chilled until showtime. It always vanishes, and someone will ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Layered Salad
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
If you’re into deviled eggs, you’re gonna love this pasta salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with eggs, relish, mustard, and just a little paprika that makes it a total crowd-pleaser. Great for casual get-togethers, easy dinners, or anytime you want something simple that actually tastes awesome. I brought it to one BBQ, and now everyone just wants me to bring this every time!
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Carrot Raisin Salad
Craving something fresh and crunchy? This carrot raisin salad hits that sweet-tangy spot. Shredded carrots, cabbage, and raisins get tossed in a lemony mayo dressing, and it always disappears fast. Make a double batch and stash some for later. You’ll be glad you did.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad
Mexican Macaroni Salad
Mexican Macaroni Salad is a crowd favorite and such an easy side. It’s loaded with crunchy veggies and smothered in a creamy taco-style dressing that everyone loves. Great for cookouts, potlucks, or just hanging on the patio with a cold drink. Seriously, it disappears quick, so making a double batch is never a bad idea. You’re gonna want seconds (and maybe thirds).
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad
Grape Salad
This creamy grape salad is my go-to when it’s too hot to cook. It’s cool, sweet, and ridiculously easy to toss together. Kids grab it first, adults hover, and it disappears. Bring it to your Labor Day spread and get ready for recipe requests. Make a double batch and stash a bowl for yourself. You can thank me later.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad
Mango Salad
This mango salad is fresh, simple, and really delicious. The homemade dressing adds the perfect zing to bring all the flavors together. It’s perfect for dinners, BBQs, or whenever you want something light and fruity. You can whip it up quickly, and everyone always asks for the recipe. Honestly, it’s the kind of salad that never lasts long.
Get the Recipe: Mango Salad
Apple Cranberry Salad
Apple Cranberry Salad is crisp and refreshing, packed with juicy apples, tart cranberries, and a lightly sweet dressing. It’s an easy side that pairs with just about anything. You’ll want it in your regular rotation. It comes together in minutes and always disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cranberry Salad
Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad
Make a quick and delicious Mediterranean tuna orzo salad for an easy weeknight dinner. It’s a healthy meal that comes together in no time. Plus, it’s packed with fresh flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more. You can even prepare it ahead to save time on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad
Cabbage Apple Salad
This crunchy Cabbage Apple Salad is an easy dinner win that won’t stress you out. It’s loaded with red cabbage, sweet Golden Delicious apples, and a tangy dressing that just hits right. Super quick to throw together, it’s fresh, light, and kinda addictive. Seriously, you’ll find yourself making it all summer without even thinking twice. Plus, it’s a great way to add some crunch and color to your meal!
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad
Butter Bean Salad
This Butter Bean Salad is loaded with beans, crunchy fresh veggies, and a tangy oil and vinegar dressing. It’s an easy side that goes with pretty much anything. Plus, it’s super fresh and comes together fast, making it perfect for when you want something light and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Butter Bean Salad
BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!
Meet your new favorite BLT pasta salad. It’s salty, crisp, and ridiculously hard to stop eating. People always ask for the recipe, so keep it handy for the next get-together. You can make it ahead and chill it until it’s time to serve.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!
Broccoli Slaw Salad
Break up with boring salads. This crisp, zesty broccoli slaw will change your lunch routine. It’s loaded with crunch and a punchy dressing that keeps every bite fresh. Mix it once, chill it, and enjoy easy grab-and-go bowls all week.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad
Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono
Japanese cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish for hot weather! It goes perfectly with grilled fish and meat or spicy dishes. It is easy to make, light, and uses just a few ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono
Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef
Make dinner easy with this homemade Taco Salad Bowl, packed with Mexican-style ground beef and wholesome ingredients. It’s naturally gluten-free, grain-free, and low carb, making it a great option for diabetics. The crisp, edible bowl adds a fun little extra to the fresh, healthy salad you’ve been craving.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef
Amish Macaroni Salad
Amish macaroni salad is creamy, slightly sweet, and perfect for potlucks or family dinners. It’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and always gets rave reviews. Make it ahead and let it chill so the flavors really shine.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad