At picnics, cookouts, tailgates, and reunions alike, it's the main dishes that typically take center stage - heck, I know a lot of male cooks that believe meat is all that's required.
But like supporting actors and actresses in major motion pictures, the side dishes play an important role in rounding out a meal. Try one of these at your next event to make it a memorable one worthy of an Oscar.
Five Bean Bake
Prep: 10 min. Cook: 10 min. skillet, 45 min. oven
Serves: About 10
This recipe, from former resident Cathy AuBuchon, is a flavorful favorite for gatherings and is a snap to throw together.
1 can each of these beans, or substitute your favorites:
Lima beans
Red beans or kidney beans
Whole green beans
Pork or pinto beans
Butter beans or great northern beans
1 c. brown sugar
1 tsp. dry mustard
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. white vinegar
1 onion, sliced
8 slices of bacon (or use pre-cooked bacon)
Drain the cans of beans and place in a large casserole dish. In a large skillet mix the sugar, mustard, salt, and vinegar. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add this, plus the onion and bacon, to the beans in the casserole dish. Bake 45 minutes at 350 degrees.
Sweet and Sour Cabbage
Prep: 10 min. Chill: All day or overnight
Serves: About 10
Here's another colorful dish; this is one that grandmother-in-law Emma Stefanoni has long served at family parties.
Equal portions of red and green cabbage, cut up
2 green peppers, diced
1 small medium onion, sliced
1 c. oil
1 c. sugar
1. c. vinegar
In a serving bowl, mix cabbage, pepper, and onion to form a salad. In a small bowl, mix together oil, sugar, and vinegar. Pour over the salad. Cover and stir every hour or two so salad on top will get soaked. Before serving, pour off some of excess dressing.
Sunny Carrot Salad
Prep: 5 min. Chill: Until serving
Serves: About 6
This old-fashioned, cool and colorful side dish adds a lot of nutrients and color to your plate for a minimum of effort.
3 c. shredded carrots
2 c. unsweetened crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 c. golden raisins
1/3 c. real mayonnaise
1/2 c. sliced almonds (optional)
1/3 c. unsalted sunflower kernels (optional)
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except almonds and sunflower kernels and stir gently until everything is coated with the mayonnaise. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Just before serving, add almonds and sunflower kernels and toss to coat.
