Summer in the South brings a bounty of fresh ingredients and flavors that are perfect for warm days. From refreshing salads to hearty fried dishes, these 18 recipes showcase the best of Southern cooking, making it easy to enjoy the season's warmth with family and friends. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a light meal, these dishes are sure to bring comfort and joy.
Southern Coleslaw

This Southern coleslaw is a refreshing mix of tangy and crunchy flavors, with a touch of sweetness. It's a great side dish for summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. Whether you're serving it at a cookout or enjoying it with a family meal, this coleslaw adds a nice crunch to any plate.
Tangy Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy fried green tomatoes are a beloved southern dish that shines in the summer months. They serve as a delicious side or appetizer that everyone will love. This straightforward recipe allows you to prepare them with minimal effort, adding a delightful flavor to your meals.
The BEST Potato Salad
Classic Potato Salad features Russet potatoes, hard boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing that brings everything together. This dish is a staple at family gatherings and summer barbecues, loved for its simplicity and deliciousness. It's a go-to side that pairs well with just about anything, making it a favorite for many.
Savory Green Tomato Pie with Homemade Crust
Summer is the perfect time for a delicious green tomato pie. If you enjoy fried green tomatoes, this savory pie is sure to be a hit. It's tart and tangy, making it a great choice for a main dish, side, or even an appetizer.
Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is a delightful dessert that really stands out in the summer when fresh peaches are available, but it’s also delicious any time of year with frozen or canned peaches. It’s warm and comforting, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dessert is perfect for get-togethers or just enjoying a cozy evening at home.
Southern Peach Pound Cake
Southern peach pound cake is a delightful summer treat. This classic loaf cake is packed with fresh diced peaches, making it a perfect dessert for warm days. It's a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Peach and Prosciutto Salad
This salad combines grilled peaches, prosciutto, creamy Boursin cheese, and toasted almonds for a delightful dish. It's light and refreshing, making it a great choice for summer meals or casual gatherings. The mix of sweet and savory flavors creates a satisfying experience that everyone will enjoy.
Southern Summer Succotash with Bacon and Tomatoes
Warm weather brings a bounty of fresh produce, and this bacon succotash is a perfect way to enjoy it. Made in a trusty cast-iron skillet, it combines sweet corn, lima beans, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and fragrant basil. This side dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Baked White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Baked White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that's both creamy and cheesy. With sharp white cheddar and Gruyere cheese blended into a smooth sauce, it’s a classic favorite. The crispy, buttery breadcrumbs on top add a nice crunch, making it a delightful combination of textures.
Sheet Pan Roasted Okra and Onions
Roasting okra and onions really brings out their natural sweetness, creating a simple yet tasty side dish. This dish is a great way to enjoy okra, especially if you're new to it. Plus, using just one pan lined with parchment paper means there's hardly any cleanup afterward.
Jiffy Cornbread
Jiffy Cornbread is already tasty on its own, but a few easy tweaks can take it to the next level. By adding some simple ingredients, you can enhance its flavor and texture. This is a great way to elevate a classic dish and make it even more enjoyable.
Strawberry Sweet Tea
Fresh strawberries and sweet tea come together in this delightful Strawberry Sweet Tea. It's easy to prepare and perfect for enjoying on a warm spring or summer day.
King Ranch Chicken Casserole
A Southern staple that makes the most comforting meal ever! Melty cheese, chicken, and southwest ingredients add a lot of flavor to this easy casserole with minimal work.
Pulled Pork Burgers
Pulled pork burgers with a special sauce bring a bit of Southern BBQ flair to your meal. They have a nice kick that sets them apart from regular burgers. With just a bit of prep, the slow cooker handles the heavy lifting, making this a simple and tasty option for dinner.
Southern Banana Pudding with Instant Pudding
Southern Banana Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines layers of Nilla wafers, fresh bananas, and smooth instant pudding, all finished off with a light and airy whipped cream topping. This classic treat is a favorite among many and is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. It's great for family gatherings or simply as a sweet indulgence at home, adding a touch of Southern charm to any occasion.
Southern Cornbread with Buttermilk
Traditional Southern-style cornbread is a simple dish that brings a rich corn flavor to the table. Made with buttermilk and stone-ground cornmeal, it has a wonderfully crunchy crust that adds to its charm. This cornbread is perfect for summer meals and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
BLFGT Sandwich
The BLFGT Sandwich features crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and zesty fried green tomatoes. It's a delicious combination that brings together classic Southern flavors. Perfect for a summer meal, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Pimento Cheese Macaroni Salad
Pimento Cheese Macaroni Salad brings together the classic flavors of a southern macaroni salad with the rich taste of pimento cheese. This dish is creamy and cheesy, making it a perfect side for summer gatherings or a light meal. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
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