You’ve got your meat, and the grill’s fired up. But, what about your sides? Using fresh ingredients doesn’t have to be complicated — these summer sides will make meal prep a breeze! For busy days and lazy summer nights, try one of these 15-minute side dish recipes.

Recipe from SkinnyMs

So you’re looking for easy cold side dish recipes? Say hello to zoodles! Use a spiralizer to turn zucchini into noodles like in this low-carb veggie pasta salad. It’s definitely worth the investment to purchase a spiralizer if you’re gluten-free, low-carb, or just looking to incorporate more veggies into your meals.

Total time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini
1 cup carrot, shredded
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp fresh basil
1 tbsp red onion, minced
3 tbsp dark balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 clove garlic
2 tsp honey

Directions

1. Using a spiralizer, cut the zucchini into long noodles and place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the carrot, tomatoes, fresh basil, and red onion to the zucchini noodles and lightly toss.
3. In a blender, combine the vinegar, tomato paste, garlic, and honey. Blend until smooth and pour over the zucchini mixture. Gently toss to coat the vegetables in the dressing. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Recipe from Real Simple

You’re just 15 minutes away from a filling and flavorful side! These curried tomatoes and chickpeas taste great, and pair perfectly with Mediterranean-style grilled meat skewers.

Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
4 scallions, sliced, white and green parts separated
1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated
1 tsp curry powder
2 pints grape tomatoes
1 15½ oz can chickpeas, rinsed
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
Sea salt & black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the white parts of the scallions, ginger, and curry powder until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to burst. Add the chickpeas and lime juice, sprinkle with scallion greens, and season with sea salt and black pepper.

Recipe from Taste of Home

These marinated mushrooms go from simple to show-stopper when paired with your favorite grilled steak.

Total time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

¼ cup lemon juice
3 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
Black pepper, to taste
1 lb. large fresh mushrooms

Directions

1. For dressing, whisk together first 5 ingredients.
2. Toss mushrooms with 2 tablespoons of dressing.
3. Grill mushrooms, covered, over medium-high heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Toss with remaining dressing before serving.

Incorporating veggies into your meals doesn’t have to be boring and these delicious sides take mere minutes to make. When you’re strapped for time, and hungry bellies are waiting, serve one of these quick and easy side dishes to complement your main. And YOU can get back to enjoying your summer!