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12 Side Dishes That Steal the Spotlight

By , Denise Tausig
With summer in full swing, we imagine many of you have been putting the grill to work. We recently shared some easy grilling recipes and hope that you have been enjoying at least some of them! Of course, no grill-out is complete without a side dish or two, right? Lucky for you, we've rounded up a variety of healthy salads, slaws, veggies and more, all of which are amazing complements to grilled meats. Be forewarned: these delicious, healthy side dishes might just take the main stage!

















Garden Potato Salad

Low-fat, protein-powerhouse cottage cheese sneaks its way into the dressing of this simple summer side. 100 Calories, 0g Fat, 22g Carbs, 4g Protein


Macaroni Salad with Bacon, Peas and Dijon Dressing

Tangy dressing contrasts well with the smoky bacon, sweet bell pepper and red onion. 189 Calories, 6g Fat, 26g Carbs, 7g Protein

Rainbow Fruit Salad

This fruit salad showcases the best flavors of summer--mango, blueberries, bananas and kiwi, just to name a few. Try it as a side with grilled chicken or even for dessert. 98 Calories, 1g Fat, 25g Carbs, 1g Protein

Light and Creamy Coleslaw
This creamy and delicious coleslaw is hiding a secret--it's very low in fat! 52 Calories, 2g Fat, 8g Carbs, 2g Protein





Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans

Make this picnic staple right in your slow cooker. 170 Calories, 1g Fat, 37g Carbs, 7g Protein


Crunchy Coleslaw

This crunchy coleslaw is a healthier version of that summer favorite: Ramen noodle salad. Two servings of vegetables in every portion! 70 Calories, 6g Fat, 6g Carbs, 1g Protein


Cauliflower or Mock Potato Salad

Cauliflower takes center stage in this ''mock'' potato salad. You won't even miss the heavy potato version. 126 Calories, 7g Fat, 14g Carbs, 5g Protein


Garlic-Herb Potato Packs

Whether you make these on the grill or in the oven, these quick-fix potato packs are mom's best friend. No mess, no clean-up and just five minutes to prepare. 165 Calories, 2g Fat, 34g Carbs, 4g Protein


Grilled Avocado Boats

If you've never grilled an avocado, you're truly missing out. Top a creamy, grilled avocado with spicy salsa and Mexican cheese for a unique summer treat. 181 Calories, 16g Fat, 9g Carbs, 3g Protein


Greek Penne Pasta Salad

The classic cookout side dish gets a healthy Greek makeover. Veggie lovers will adore the edamame, tomato and onion. 190 Calories, 8g Fat, 28g Carbs, 7g Protein


Grilled Vegetables with Pineapple

Add a bit of sweetness to your vegetable kabobs with chunks of summer pineapple. 137 Calories, 7g Fat, 17g Carbs, 2g Protein


Grilled Corn with Lime Butter

Take your grilled corn to the next level by adding a hint of lime. 98 Calories, 3g Fat, 17g Carbs, 3g Protein









What is your favorite grill-out side dish? Which of these recipes are you most excited to try?