Simple Recipes for a Summer Barbecue (2024)

This post was sponsored by Hidden Valley as part of an Influencer Activation and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

Summer is officially here, which means Barbecue season is in full swing! The items on the grill are often the star of these meals, but appetizers and side dishes are also a must. Check out these Simple Recipes for a Summer Barbecuefeaturing deliciousHidden Valley Ranchproducts.

I am thrilled that summer is finally here! I have been taking full advantage of the warm weather and being able to spend a lot of time outside. I just love grilling dinner and eating outdoors during my favorite season here in Maine.

I have a list on repeat of what to put on the grill on nice nights…shrimp, chicken, steaks, corn on the cob, portobello mushrooms and on special nights…lobster! So, the main dish is a no brainer for me. However, I sometimes struggle with coming up with easy appetizers and side dishes. I like to keep it as simple as possible, so I always keep a few items on hand to prepare quick and easy accompaniments. This is whyHidden Valley Ranchproducts are a staple in my pantry.

I always pick up a bottle ofHidden Valley Ranch Dressing and the amazing Ready-to-eat-dipswhen I go to Walmart. Walmart is the convenient low-cost, one-stop destination for all of my summer shopping needs.

So, as I mentioned above I always have Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing and the amazing Ready-to-eat-dipson hand so I can make simple appetizers and side dishes. Here are a few of my favorites!

Southwestern Layered Salad

Super easy to make! Here is the recipe:

1. Combine a can of black beans (rinsed & drained) with 1/2 cup of your favorite salsa and add to a clear glass 2-3 quart bowl.

2. Layer 2 cups of shredded lettuce on top, followed by a layer of 2 diced tomatoes, 2 cups of corn, 1 cup diced red onion, 1 cup diced green chiles (or green bell pepper if. you prefer mild).

3. Top with Hidden Valley Ranch Thick & Creamy Fiesta Ranch Dip, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and a 1/4 cup of bacon bits.

4. Chill for 30 minutes and serve!

Easy Peasy Ranch Spinach Artichoke Dip

10 minute dip, perfect for a last minute appetizer!

1. Thaw out a 10 ounce package of frozen spinach, drain any excess water.

2. Combine spinach with a jar of coarsely chopped, rinsed and drained artichoke hearts.

3. Add in a container of Hidden Valley Ranch Thick & Creamy Ready-to Eat Dip and stir until well combined.

4. Refrigerate for 1 hour, then serve with fresh veggies and/or sliced baguette.

Low Carb Cheesy Bacon Casserole

So, I hate to pock favorites, but I am smitten with this dish! It is super easy to make and I love that it is low in carbohydrates! Check out these simple steps to preparing this rich and delicious dish.

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Cut up 2 heads of cauliflower into flowrerettes. Place in a large pan, cover with water and bring to a boil. Cook until cauliflower is tender, 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Strain water out of pan, then mash up cauliflower.

4. Place cauliflower in a 2 quart baking pan coated with cooking spray. Mix in 1 container of Hidden Valley Ranch Thick & Creamy Ready-to-Eat Bacon Dip, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup chopped green onions. Stir until well combined, then add 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top

5. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly. Remove from heat and garnish with diced bacon and green onions.

Classic Crudités and Hidden Valley Ranch Dip

I have to say it does not get more classic than this! A plate of fresh veggies and Hidden Valley Ranch Dip is always a favorite! Directions? It does not get easier than this: Slice up your favorite veggies, put them on a pretty platter with a bowl of Hidden Valley Ranch Thick & Creamy Ready-to Eat Dipin the center. That is it!

Sweepstakes!!!

When you buy at Walmart, you can enter for a chance to Upgrade Your Summer by entering to win a backyard makeover that includes the Ultimate Outdoor Movie Theater…To enter head onoverto (or click the link): http://www.upgrade-your-summer.com/

#UpgradeYourSummer, #HV

No purchase necessary to enter or win. A purchase will not increase your chance of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. Must be at least 21+ and a legal resident of the 50 U.S./DC. The Sweepstakes will consist of one (1) random drawing period to award (131) prizes. Sweepstakes begins on 5/26/20 at 12:00:01 a.m. (midnight) ET and ends on 7/22/20 at 11:59:59 p.m. ET. To enter and for Official Rules and other important terms and conditions, visit upgrade-your-summer.com. Sponsor: Fuel Partnerships, Inc., 6111 Broken Sound Parkway NW, Suite #265, Boca Raton, FL 33487.