10 Healthy Cold Side Dishes

By Andrea Cohen
Published 8/11/2025
In This Article
10 Healthy Cold Side Dishes
Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

When the weather is warm or if you're looking to serve a crowd, cold side dishes can be the perfect addition to the table. They can make your picnic feel complete without weighing you down, no matter what else you’re serving. They’re also easy to make, travel well, and are a hit at potlucks, barbecues, backyard parties, and any summer holiday get-together.

Another benefit of cold side dishes is that they’re great for prepping ahead of time. You can make them the night before or the morning of your event and chill them until you're ready to serve. Then just take them out when it’s time to serve, with no other prep needed. That means less stress and more time to enjoy the fun. 

Tips for Making Cold Side Dishes Healthy

Healthy cold side dishes use fresh, wholesome ingredients and skip heavy, creamy dressings and high-sodium ingredients. Here are some tips for making healthier cold sides:

  • Use plenty of veggies. Cold vegetable side dishes are a great way to add fiber, vitamins, and color to your plate.
  • Swap heavy dressings. Instead of full-fat mayonnaise, make dressings from plain Greek yogurt or avocado for a creamy texture with more nutrients. Or use vinaigrettes made with heart-healthy olive oil, vinegar, citrus, herbs, and spices.
  • Add whole grains. Cold grain salads made with quinoa, brown rice, or farro add heart-healthy fiber and help keep you full.
  • Go easy on salt. Use low-sodium ingredients when possible and rely on herbs and spices to bring out flavor.

When to Serve Cold Side Dishes

Cold side dishes are incredibly versatile. From veggie-packed salads to chilled grains, there are plenty of good cold side dishes to choose from and you can serve them just about any time and for any type of occasion.

  • Cold vegetable side dishes pair well with grilled foods at backyard barbecues.
  • Enjoy some cold sides with sandwiches for a quick and easy lunch.
  • Make ahead cold side dishes complete meals on busy weeknights.
  • Pack cold picnic side dishes when you’re taking your meal on the go.
  • Delicious cold sides can complement holiday meals, a bonus when oven space is limited.

Many cold side dish recipes taste better the next day, after the flavors have time to blend. This makes them ideal for busy days and stress-free entertaining. They’re also a smart choice when you need something that’s easy to transport. Because they don’t require reheating, they’re a go-to option for potlucks, picnics, and outdoor dining.

To ensure food stays safe to eat, cold side dishes for summer events (and when serving other times, too) should be kept chilled until ready to serve, especially if they contain dairy or protein. If it’s very hot outside, they should not be left out for more than an hour unless they’re kept cold using an ice bath.

Healthy Cold Side Dish Recipes

Ready to try some great cold side dishes that are light, flavorful, and easy to make? Enjoy this selection of cold veggie side dish recipes and other refreshing favorites from the chefs and dietitians at Health eCooks. From crisp salads to zesty slaws, these recipes are proof that healthy eating can be delicious and crowd-pleasing.

  1. 01

    Chipotle Chicken Pasta

    Chipotle Chicken Pasta
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    45 mins

    Smoky, creamy, and just a little spicy, this chicken pasta salad brings bold flavor to any summer BBQ. The chipotle-laced sauce gives it a satisfying kick, and since it’s served cold, it’s a breeze to prep ahead for grilling nights or casual backyard dinners.

    View Recipe
  2. 02

    Greek Edamame Salad

    Heart Healthy Greek Edamame Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    15 mins

    Tossed with crisp veggies and a zesty vinaigrette, this vibrant mix is bursting with Mediterranean flavor. It’s the kind of side you can bring to a picnic and know it’ll still taste fresh hours later, even when the sun’s out.

    View Recipe
  3. 03

    Tortellini Pasta Salad

    Heart Healthy Tortellini Pasta Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    30 mins

    Cheese-filled tortellini and colorful mixed vegetables make this a satisfying yet refreshing side dish. It’s the type of potluck favorite that disappears quickly—and no one will guess it’s heart-healthy, too.

    View Recipe
  4. 04

    German Potato Salad

    Heart Healthy German Potato Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    35 mins

    This tangy take on classic potato salad skips the heavy mayo but keeps all the flavor. Served chilled or at room temp, it’s ideal for cookouts, especially when you want something that pairs perfectly with grilled fare.

    View Recipe
  5. 05

    Greek Salad

    Heart Healthy Greek Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    15 mins

    Cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and salty feta come together in this crisp classic. Serve it up at a garden party or patio dinner. It’s simple, fresh, and always a crowd-pleaser.

    View Recipe
  6. 06

    Mediterranean Bean Salad

    Heart Healthy Mediterranean Bean Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    20 mins

    Need a cold side dish that’s equal parts filling and flavorful? This bean salad is packed with plant protein and tossed in herbs and olive oil. It’s great for laid-back dinners under the stars or easy lunches on the go.

    View Recipe
  7. 07

    Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Raisins

    Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Raisins
    Photo Credit: Adam Fisher, Baldwin Publishing
    35 mins

    There’s something irresistible about the combo of savory bacon, sweet raisins, and crunchy broccoli. This make-ahead salad travels well, making it perfect for tailgates, park gatherings, or any event where you're feeding a crowd.

    View Recipe
  8. 08

    Bell Pepper and Farro Salad

    Heart Healthy Bell Pepper and Farro Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    30 mins

    Nutty farro meets crisp bell peppers and fresh herbs in this hearty, chilled salad. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for warm-weather get-togethers where you want something a little different from the usual sides.

    View Recipe
  9. 09

    Black Bean Quinoa Salad

    Heart Healthy Black Bean Quinoa Salad
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    15 mins

    Protein-rich and full of vibrant color, this salad brings a fresh, southwest-inspired vibe to any outdoor table. It’s just the thing to round out a picnic basket or complement grilled veggies and lean meats.

    View Recipe
  10. 10

    Broccoli Slaw

    Heart Healthy Broccoli Slaw
    Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer
    15 mins

    Crunchy, creamy, and just a little sweet, this slaw has backyard lunch written all over it. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor get-together or packing a cooler for an afternoon picnic, it’s a refreshing side you’ll reach for again and again.

    View Recipe

More Healthy Side Dishes

In addition to these simple cold side dishes, we have many other healthy side dish recipes to choose from. Also check out these blogs for some more side dish inspiration:

And if you’re celebrating a summer holiday, you’ll find some delicious recipes here:

Health eCooks Cookbook on Amazon

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