50 Labor Day Side Dishes That Will Complete Your Picnic Spread

Labor Day signals a final big hoorah of summer, and the sides you set out can make the gathering shine. From crunchy salads to creamy dips, the dishes below pair effortlessly with everything coming off the grill. They travel well, taste great at room temperature, and invite guests to come back for seconds. Pick a handful or tackle them all—either way, the picnic table will look bountiful.

1. Classic Potato Salad

This timeless favorite combines tender red potatoes with mayo, mustard, and a splash of pickle brine for zip. Finely diced celery and onions add crunch while hard-boiled eggs lend extra richness. Chill it for at least two hours so flavors meld and the dressing thickens slightly. Serve cool beside burgers or hot dogs for an instant crowd-pleaser.

2. Creamy Coleslaw

Shredded cabbage and carrots soak up a tangy blend of mayo, vinegar, and a hint of sugar. The veggies stay crisp even after several hours, making this ideal for outdoor spreads. A pinch of celery seed rounds out the flavor without overpowering. Keep it chilled until guests arrive, then let everyone pile it onto their plates or sandwiches.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter

Sweet corn charred on the grill needs little more than seasoned butter to stand out. Whip softened butter with chili powder, lime zest, and a squeeze of juice for a zesty finish. Brush each cob generously while it’s still warm so the butter melts into every kernel. Provide extra napkins—guests will happily dig in with their hands.

4. Caprese Skewers

Bite-size caprese skewers capture the essence of the classic salad without plates or forks. Layer tomato, mozzarella, and basil on short picks, then drizzle lightly with balsamic reduction. The colors pop on any picnic spread and deliver bright, fresh flavor. Make them the morning of and keep chilled until it’s time to serve.

5. Watermelon-Feta-Mint Salad

Juicy watermelon cubes mingle with salty feta for a sweet-savory balance that feels refreshing on a hot day. Slivered mint lifts every bite with herbal notes. A quick drizzle of lime juice ties it all together and prevents the fruit from getting mushy. Serve chilled for maximum crunch and flavor.

6. Deviled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs transform into bite-size delights when filled with a smooth mixture of yolk, mayo, Dijon, and a splash of vinegar. A dusting of smoked paprika adds gentle heat and color. They’re easy to transport in a lidded container lined with paper towels to prevent sliding. Watch them disappear faster than you can set them down.

7. Baked Beans

Slow-baked navy beans simmer with molasses, brown sugar, and a hint of bacon for deep, smoky sweetness. The dish reheats beautifully if you prepare it a day ahead. Pack it in a thermal carrier to keep it warm until serving time. Spoonfuls pair perfectly with grilled sausages and ribs.

8. Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Al dente rotini absorbs a zesty vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried herbs. Bell peppers, olives, and tomatoes contribute crunch and color. Chill the salad for at least an hour so the pasta soaks up the dressing. It travels well and stays tasty even as it returns to room temperature.

9. Loaded Nacho Dip

Seven layers of creamy, cheesy, and spicy goodness beckon chip after chip. Refried beans anchor the dish, while guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheddar add flavor and color. Bake until the cheese melts, then sprinkle with sliced olives and scallions for extra flair. Serve warm alongside a sturdy pile of tortilla chips.

10. Garlic Herb Grilled Vegetables

Colorful vegetables soak up a simple marinade of olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. A quick turn on the grill leaves them smoky yet still crisp-tender. Arrange the veggies on a platter and drizzle with any remaining marinade. They taste delicious warm or at room temperature, making them picnic-friendly.

11. Southern Macaroni & Cheese

Elbow noodles swim in a silky sauce of cheddar, Colby, and a splash of evaporated milk. A brief bake forms that coveted crispy top layer. Make it early in the day, then warm it lightly before serving. The rich, cheesy bites bring comfort to any cookout.

12. Cucumber Tomato Salad

This salad celebrates peak-season produce with minimal fuss. Crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes mingle with a light red wine vinaigrette. Fresh dill brightens each forkful without overpowering. Serve chilled for a crisp contrast to heavier entrees.

13. Three-Bean Salad

Canned beans make this dish speedy, while a vinegar-sugar dressing adds tangy sweetness. Thinly sliced onions provide bite, and parsley lends freshness. The flavors improve after a few hours in the fridge. It serves beautifully alongside barbecue classics.

14. Fruit Kabobs with Honey-Lime Glaze

Colorful fruit skewers double as a palate cleanser and a light dessert. A quick whisk of honey and lime juice becomes a simple glaze that keeps the fruit vibrant. Kids love helping assemble the sticks, making prep more fun. Keep them chilled until serving for maximum juiciness.

15. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan form a velvety base for tender spinach and chopped artichokes. Baking until golden creates irresistible edges for scooping. Serve warm with bread or sturdy crackers. Any leftovers reheat well the next day.

16. Hawaiian Rolls with Honey Butter

Soft, slightly sweet rolls become even more tempting when paired with whipped honey butter. Beat softened butter with honey and a hint of flaky salt for balance. Set the basket on the table and watch the rolls vanish. They’re perfect for building mini sandwiches with leftover barbecue.

17. Lemon Orzo Salad

Tiny orzo pasta absorbs a bright dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of garlic. Crisp cucumber and fresh herbs add texture and fragrance. Feta crumbles introduce creamy tang. The salad keeps well for hours, making it road-trip ready.

18. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Roasted cauliflower delivers all the buffalo flavor without the chicken. A short bake ensures the florets stay tender inside while crisp outside. Toss them in your favorite wing sauce just before serving. Offer cool ranch or blue cheese for dunking.

19. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Crunchy pickle chunks and dill-infused dressing give this pasta salad a bracing tang. Cheddar shreds melt slightly into the noodles, adding richness. The salad tastes even better after chilling overnight. It’s a playful twist guests will remember.

20. Sweet Potato Fries

Cut sweet potatoes into even sticks, toss with oil and spices, then bake until crisp edges appear. A sprinkle of sea salt highlights their natural sweetness. Serve them warm with chipotle mayo or ketchup. They hold up surprisingly well at room temperature, too.

21. Jalapeño Cornbread

Buttermilk keeps this cornbread moist, while diced jalapeños add gentle heat. Bake it in a hot skillet for a crispy edge that contrasts the tender crumb. Slice into squares or wedges once cooled slightly. The savory bread pairs nicely with chili or grilled meats.

22. Broccoli Bacon Salad

Raw broccoli brings crunch, while smoky bacon and sweet cranberries create a satisfying flavor mix. A light mayo and vinegar dressing ties it all together. The salad stays crisp for hours, even outside. Make extra, as leftovers taste great the next day.

23. Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip with Veggies

Swapping mayo for Greek yogurt lightens ranch dip without sacrificing creaminess. Fresh dill, chives, and a dash of garlic powder add classic flavor. Serve with crisp vegetables for guilt-free snacking. It also doubles as a sauce for grilled chicken.

24. Sesame Slaw

A soy-ginger vinaigrette gives this slaw an Asian-inspired twist. Toasted sesame seeds add nutty crunch. The cabbage stays crisp even after hours on the table. It’s a refreshing match for teriyaki or barbecue flavors.

25. Quinoa Tabbouleh

Replacing bulgur with quinoa keeps this tabbouleh gluten-free while adding protein. Plenty of parsley, mint, and lemon juice create bright, herbal notes. The salad tastes best once chilled so the grains absorb the dressing. Spoon it into lettuce cups for a fun presentation.

26. Antipasto Platter

An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and pickled veggies requires zero cooking yet feels festive. Arrange everything in small piles so guests can graze easily. Drizzle a touch of olive oil over the vegetables for shine. Provide toothpicks and small plates for easy sampling.

27. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Mushrooms

Bite-size mushrooms gain rich flavor from minced garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. High-heat roasting concentrates their natural juices. Serve them warm or at room temperature with skewers for easy snacking. They’re a savory complement to grilled steak.

28. Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad

Earthy roasted beets pair beautifully with tangy goat cheese and peppery arugula. A splash of balsamic glaze adds sweetness and sheen. Prepare the beets a day in advance to streamline picnic day. Serve chilled for vibrant color contrast on the table.

29. Mango Black Bean Salsa

Sweet mango meets hearty black beans for a salsa that balances fruity and savory notes. Lime juice and jalapeño keep flavors sharp and lively. Spoon it over grilled chicken or scoop it up with chips. It tastes even better after marinating for an hour.

30. Pimento Cheese Spread

Sharp cheddar, diced pimentos, and a touch of hot sauce create a creamy Southern classic. Blend until spreadable, then chill for at least 30 minutes. Serve with crackers, celery sticks, or pretzels. Leftovers make an excellent grilled cheese filling.

31. Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)

Taking elote off the cob turns it into an easy spoonable side. Smoky grilled corn mixes with mayo, cotija, lime juice, and chili powder for creamy heat. Serve warm or room temp. It’s a perfect companion to grilled meats or tacos.

32. Classic Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine hearts stand up to the bold, anchovy-laced dressing. Homemade croutons add buttery crunch, while shaved Parmesan finishes things off. Toss just before serving to keep greens crisp. It brings a touch of elegance to any cookout menu.

33. Caramelized Onion Dip

Slow-cooked onions lend deep sweetness to this creamy dip. Stir them into a base of sour cream and cream cheese for a rich, savory spread. Chill for an hour so flavors develop. Thick potato chips are the perfect delivery vehicle.

34. Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese

Soft pretzel nuggets bring chewy satisfaction, especially when dunked in sharp cheddar beer sauce. The sauce stays smooth if kept in a small insulated thermos. Arrange pretzels in a cloth-lined basket to keep them warm. They disappear quickly, so make plenty.

35. Herb Marinated Olives

Store-bought olives become special after soaking in olive oil, citrus zest, and herbs. A brief warm on the stovetop helps the flavors infuse faster. Serve them at room temperature with small cocktail picks. They act as a salty counterpoint to richer dishes.

36. Curried Couscous Salad

Quick-cooking couscous absorbs a mild curry vinaigrette in minutes. Crunchy vegetables and sweet raisins provide contrast. The salad is tasty warm or chilled, giving you serving flexibility. It’s particularly good alongside grilled chicken thighs.

37. Peach Burrata Salad

Juicy summer peaches pair with luscious burrata for a sweet-savory experience. Peppery arugula adds freshness, while balsamic glaze delivers balanced acidity. Assemble just before serving to keep the cheese pristine. Guests will rave about this simple yet sophisticated dish.

38. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

High-heat roasting coaxes out the sprouts’ natural sweetness and gives edges a pleasant crisp. Bacon drippings deepen the flavor without extra work. Transfer to a platter and sprinkle with cracked pepper. They taste great warm or at room temp.

39. Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad

Cold noodles bathed in a gingery peanut sauce bring bold flavor and a hint of heat. Crisp veggies supply crunch and color. The salad can be made a day ahead; just loosen with a splash of water before serving. It’s a satisfying option for vegetarians at the party.

40. Coconut Lime Rice

Cooking rice in coconut milk yields a lightly sweet, aromatic base dish. Lime zest and juice brighten each bite, preventing heaviness. Fluff with a fork and serve warm or at room temperature. The tropical notes complement grilled seafood and chicken.

41. Tomato Peach Gazpacho Cups

Blending ripe tomatoes with sweet peaches creates a refreshing chilled soup. Pour into individual cups for easy, mess-free sipping. A garnish of diced cucumber adds texture. Keep the tray over ice until serving for best flavor.

42. Grilled Zucchini Ribbons

Use a vegetable peeler to create long zucchini strips that cook in seconds on the grill. A quick brush of olive oil prevents sticking and adds gloss. Finish with lemon zest and chopped parsley for bright flavor. They’re light, pretty, and unexpectedly tasty.

43. Cranberry Almond Broccoli Slaw

Broccoli slaw offers a crunchy alternative to cabbage versions. Dried cranberries bring sweetness, while toasted almonds add nutty crispness. A light yogurt-based dressing ties everything together. Serve chilled for ultimate crunch.

44. Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread

Slicing a loaf almost to the bottom allows garlicky butter and cheese to seep into every crevice. Bake until the top turns golden and the cheese melts. Guests pull apart pieces with their fingers—no knife needed. It vanishes quickly, so consider making two.

45. Marinated Chickpea Salad

Protein-rich chickpeas absorb flavors from a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. Fresh vegetables add brightness and crunch. The salad holds up well for hours without wilting. Serve with pita wedges or alongside grilled lamb.

46. Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots

Sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon create a glossy glaze on tender carrots. Roasting concentrates flavor and brings out natural sugars. Serve them warm or room temperature; they’re tasty either way. A pinch of fresh thyme keeps things aromatic.

47. Avocado Corn Salsa

Chunky avocado mingles with smoky corn for a creamy-crisp texture combo. A splash of lime juice prevents browning and brightens the flavors. Spoon it onto tacos or serve with chips. Make it just before the meal to keep the avocado vibrant.

48. Italian Roasted Red Peppers

Roasting peppers over high heat intensifies sweetness and imparts subtle char. Peel and slice them, then marinate in olive oil, garlic, and basil. They’re delicious on their own or tucked into sandwiches. Prepare up to three days ahead and store chilled.

49. Lemon Dill Potato Skewers

Par-boil baby potatoes, toss with olive oil, dill, and lemon zest, then finish on the grill. Skewers make them easy to turn and serve. A final squeeze of lemon highlights the herbs. They’re sturdy enough to hold up on a buffet table.

50. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Though technically a sweet bite, these strawberries act as a light finish to a hearty meal. Melt good-quality chocolate, dip the berries, and chill until set. Add crushed nuts or sprinkles if you like extra crunch. They disappear quickly and require zero utensils.