June means warmer weather, longer days, and good times. But nothing says summer like firing up the grill, cracking open a cold drink, and spending time with friends and family.
Cookout and Barbecue season is finally here! Although the main focus of a barbecued meal is the burgers and brats, we like to think the real star of the show is the sides.
Not sure what dish to bring to your next cookout? Fear not. We have a variety of delicious recipes to choose from – ranging from savory to sweet. We are your hub for summertime sides!
Take a look! Keep reading to find a summertime recipe people will ask you to make again and again.
Bacon & BBQ Baked Beans
A barbecue plate would not be complete without a hefty helping of delicious baked beans. This recipe kicks your normal BBQ baked beans up a level with a combination of textures and flavors. Hickory smoked bacon adds a salty and smoky flavor while adding a crunch. On the other hand, brown sugar, molasses, and maple create the classic sweet taste of the baked beans everyone knows and loves.
These baked beans are a great dish to make ahead of time when you know you’ll be in a pinch. Fry and chop the bacon, sauté the onions, combine the remaining ingredients, and cover until you’re ready to bake. Forty-five minutes before you leave for your cookout, pop the beans in the oven at 350 degrees.
All these ingredients are easy to find, so no need to plan ahead. Simple, easy, and efficient. These delicious concoctions will have people coming back for seconds and even thirds.
Crisp and Crunchy Corn and Pinto Bean Salsa
Summertime is the best time to utilize all the freshest seasonal ingredients. One of the best ways to buy your produce is by shopping at local farmers’ markets. Not only are you getting delicious fruits and vegetables picked just days before, you’re also supporting your community and local farmers. Going to farmers’ markets is also a great way to enjoy the beautiful summer weather while spending time with family and friends.
This Crisp and Crunchy Corn and Pinto Bean Salsa is a great way to use a variety of your farmers’ market favorites. This recipe uses fresh corn, jalapeño, green chilies, sweet onion, and cilantro, making it a seasonal treat. Combine other ingredients, including Randall Pinto Beans, and bring them with you to your next outdoor dinner.
This recipe is fresh, delicious, and sure to impress. This is an awesome way to change up the typical tomato-based salsa, and is great on a burger or a chip!
4-Layer Bean Dip
This next dish is highly customizable. For this recipe, we decided to get a variety of flavors with Randall Beans 7 Bean Mix, but you can pick your favorite or whatever you have in your pantry.
Next comes the sour cream. Sour cream will ensure this dish has a nice soft texture while adding some tang to balance out all the tastes.
The third layer is where you get most of the flavor. Diced tomatoes and green chilies are the main characters in this layer, but you can incorporate whatever ingredients you would like. Try adding garlic, onion, lime, or even jalapeño.
The final part, and arguably the best part, is the cheese. This recipe suggests that you use cheddar, but we won’t stop you from adding whatever kind you like. Use mozzarella, colby jack, or even pepper jack to add some heat!
However you make this dip, know that you will not be bringing home leftovers – it’s THAT delicious.
Randall’s Rich Red Velvet Cupcakes
A barbecue is never complete without a little something sweet. I know what you’re thinking, “Beans in dessert?” Rest assured, these Red Velvet cupcakes are divine. This is a great way to end a meal, and ensures everyone can have their cake and eat it too!
Adding Randall Great Northern Beans does not take away from the sweetness of your classic Red Velvet Cake recipe. Using beans not only makes this cake super moist, but when combined with applesauce, creates an alternative to oil or butter. Top with cream cheese frosting, and enjoy this guilt-free way to indulge!
Cupcakes are easy to transport to cookouts, though with this recipe you won’t have to worry about transporting them home again!
