Hello there, Reader!

In last week’s newsletter, I shared some of my favorite recipes for outdoor gatherings, from grilled mains to crowd-pleasing classics. If you missed it, you can catch up HERE.

This week, we're focusing on what might just be the real stars of BBQ season — the sides!

Whether you're heading to a potluck, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just planning ahead for the long weekend, these Italian-inspired side dishes are easy to make, travel well, and pair perfectly with grilled favorites like my Chicken Spiedini or Bar-B Barn Style Ribs.

And if you want to give your veggies or salads a quick upgrade? A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds just the right touch.

Here are 8 potluck-ready recipes I hope you’ll enjoy sharing this season:

Potluck-Perfect Picks

• ​Garlic Knots – Soft, golden, and brushed with olive oil and garlic.
• ​Italian Potato Croquettes – Crispy outside, soft and cheesy inside. Always the first to go.
• ​Garlicky Grilled Polenta – Sliced, grilled, and full of flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature.
• ​Garlic Chive Smashed Potatoes – Rustic, flavorful, and ready for a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

• ​Garlicky Steamed Green Beans – Light, fresh, and perfect beside grilled meats.
• ​Cucumber Salad with Vinegar – Crisp, tangy, and incredibly refreshing.
• ​Watermelon Feta Mint Salad – A refreshing twist that balances sweet and savory perfectly.
• ​Macedonia: This Italian Fruit Salad is a refreshing way to finish any BBQ.

A Sweet Fruit Finish

When you're asked to bring dessert, a fruit-forward option is always welcome. Depending on what’s in season, here are two beautiful ways to end your potluck on a sweet note:

• ​Rhubarb Cake – Light, tender, and bursting with spring flavor.
• ​Strawberry Rhubarb Compote – Spoon it over ice cream, yogurt, or my sponge cake recipe for an easy and elegant finish.

I hope one (or a few!) of these sides make it to your next outdoor table. They’re easy to prep, travel well, and bring just the right amount of Italian flavor to any gathering.

Thank you for reading, and as always, happy baking and cooking!

Have a great week!

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Ciao for now,

Maria