9 Gut Healthy Side Dish Summer Recipes to Try this Year

Summer is the perfect season to indulge in fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dishes that celebrate the best of what this time of year has to offer. At Olive My Pickle, we're passionate about creating delicious, fermented foods that not only taste great but also provide numerous health benefits!

To help you make the most of your summer meals, we've rounded up 9 incredible summer recipes for you to try this season. Whether you're hosting a BBQ, picnic, or simply looking for a new side dish to accompany your meals, these recipes are sure to impress!

But, before we dive into our favorite side dishes for summer, let's talk about why adding fermented foods to your meals is a good idea!

The Benefits of Eating Fermented Foods

Incorporating fermented foods into your summer diet is more than just a tasty choice; it’s a part of leading a healthy lifestyle that will have a huge impact on your well-being. Fermented foods are rich in probiotics aka beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut. A balanced gut microbiome is essential for optimal digestion, immune function, and even mental health.

They’re also packed with live enzymes that support digestion. Did you know your body devotes 70% of its energy to the process of digestion? By adding ferments, you are lightening the load and getting back more energy for YOU!

By pairing traditional summer grilling recipes with fermented foods, you not only enhance flavors but also support your gut health – a win-win!

Creating Balance: Adding Ferments to Traditional Summer Foods

Balancing traditional summer grilling recipes with fermented foods is beneficial for several reasons:

1. Enhanced Flavor Profiles: Fermented foods add a depth of flavor that is both tangy and complex, enhancing the taste of your summer dishes.
2. Digestive Health: Probiotics and enzymes in fermented foods support a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion, which is essential for nutrient absorption.
3. Nutrient Absorption: Fermented foods can increase the bioavailability of nutrients, making it easier for your body to absorb and utilize essential vitamins and minerals.
4. Immune Boost: A healthy gut microbiome can strengthen your immune system, helping you stay healthy during the summer months.
5. Reduced Inflammation: The probiotics and enzymes in fermented foods can help reduce inflammation in the body, promoting overall wellness.

Summer Recipe Roundup: 9 Gut-Healthy Side Dishes

Without further ado, here’s a round-up of 9 gut healthy side dishes that are sure to keep you feeling good and others askin’ for more!

1. Spicy Green Bean & Potato Salad

Spicy Green Bean & Potato Salad is a classic summer side dish that gets a delightful twist with our fermented goodies. This salad combines crunchy green beans, savory olives and tender potatoes with a zesty dressing made from our fermented vegetables. It's a refreshing and nutritious addition to any summer meal. With the combo of the fermented green beans and olives, you’re getting a variety of different probiotics. Your gut thrives on this biodiversity!

2. Gluten-Free Italian Pasta Salad

For those following a gluten-free diet, our Gluten-Free Italian Pasta Salad is a perfect choice for a light, poolside pasta dish on a summer afternoon. Packed with vibrant colors and bold flavors, this salad features gluten-free pasta, our zesty fermented vegetables, and a medley of fresh ingredients. It's a crowd-pleaser that's easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. The inclusion of fermented vegetables not only adds a delicious tang but also introduces beneficial bacteria to your diet, which supports gut health. Buon appetito!

3. Okra, Tomato & Onion Salad

Elevate your summer meals with the Okra, Tomato & Onion Salad. This recipe combines the unique flavors of fermented okra with juicy tomatoes and crisp onions. It's a light, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that's perfect for warm weather gatherings. Fermented okra is rich in fiber, enzymes and probiotics, which can enhance gut health and support overall digestive function.

4. Sauerkraut & Corn Salsa

Our Sauerkraut & Corn Salsa is a versatile and zesty side dish that pairs perfectly with chips, tacos, or grilled meats. This salsa combines sweet corn, our earty and warm Turmeric & Cumin Sauerkraut, and a mix of fresh vegetables for a refreshing and satisfying bite. It's an easy way to add a burst of flavor to any summer meal. The sauerkraut in this salsa is loaded with vitamins C, K, B6, and antioxidants, making it great for combating inflammation in the body.

5. Dill Chickpea Salad

For a protein-packed side dish that's bursting with flavor, try our Dill Chickpea Salad. This salad features creamy chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and our dill-licious Kosher Dill Pickles. It's a hearty and healthy option that's perfect for picnics and potlucks. Chickpeas are high in fiber, and when combined with probiotic-rich dill pickles and healthy fat from the dressing this salad covers the gut health trifecta. Fat, fiber, and ferments with every meal creates a powerhouse for gut health.

6. Pickle De Gallo

Add a twist to your traditional salsa with our Pickle De Gallo. This recipe combines the classic flavors of pico de gallo with the fresh and briny kick of our fermented pickles. It's a refreshing and tangy side dish that's perfect for dipping or topping your favorite summer dishes. The fermented pickles introduce beneficial bacteria into your diet, supporting gut health and enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the salsa.

7. Muffuletta Lamb Burger

Okay, okay, we know this one isn’t a side dish, but we couldn’t pass up this yummy take on a traditional burger, so if you're looking for a main course that's bursting with flavor, our Muffuletta Lamb Burger is a must-try! This burger features juicy lamb patties topped with our savory muffuletta olive mix. It's a delicious and gourmet option that's perfect for summer grilling. The muffuletta olive mix, with its fermented components, adds a unique flavor and a probiotic boost, making your burger not just tasty but also beneficial for your digestive health.

8. Orange and Fennel Salad with Red & Ginger Sauerkraut

Brighten up your summer menu with our Orange and Fennel Salad with Red & Ginger Sauerkraut. This salad combines the sweetness of oranges, the crunch of fennel, and the zing of o refreshing and elegant side dish that's perfect for any occasion. The sauerkraut is not only delicious but also packed with live enzymes which aid in digestion so your body can spend less energy on breaking down food and leave more energy for YOU!

9. Sauerkraut Stuffed Avocado

Lastly, our Sauerkraut Stuffed Avocado is a simple yet sophisticated side dish that might just become your new favorite snack This recipe features creamy avocado halves filled with our addictive sauerkraut, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It's a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy the best of summer produce. The healthy fats in avocados combined with the probiotics in sauerkraut make this dish a perfect blend for gut health and overall wellness.

Which Side Dish Will You Try First?

These 9 summer recipes are the perfect way to elevate your seasonal meals. Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a hearty and flavorful main course, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and get your guests talking. So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy the delicious flavors of summer with these easy to make summer recipes.

Want to add these to your next cookout? Grab a box of the OMP ingredients!