When you're short on time, maybe around a long weekend - maybe for a grill out with friends, it can be hard to come up with a quick delicious side or main. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Here are two quick side dishes and a main course to consider.

Side Dish #1: Fruit Salad

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all your cut fruit. Say strawberries and blueberries at the minimum. 
2. Add some fruit dip
   -or-
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss to coat.

Tips:

• Feel free to use any type of fruit you like in this salad.
• For a more tropical flavor, add some pineapple or mango.
• For a more tart flavor, add some raspberries or blackberries.
• If you don't have lime juice, you can use lemon juice or orange juice instead.
• If you don't have ground cinnamon, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Enjoy!

Side Dish #2: Coleslaw with flavor (just three items from the grocery store)

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of shredded coleslaw bag
• 1 bottle of local grocery dressing
• Crispy onions to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the slaw, dressing, and onions.
2. Toss to coat.
3. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Tips:

• For a more flavorful coleslaw, add some grated carrots or celery to the mix.
• If you want a spicier coleslaw, add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Main Dish: BLT Chicken Salad

Follow Victoria Tschopp's lead and make a tasty salad.

Full version on instagram.

Summary Instructions:

1. Chop the romaine lettuce and tomatoes. Rinse, lay on a paper towel, and set aside.
2. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and seasoning of choice.
3. In a saute pan, heat the olive oil. Sear chicken on both sides for 3-4 minutes. Finish in an air fryer or stove top. 
4. Back the bacon in the oven, preferably on a raised grate
5. In a bowl, whisk together the greek yogurt, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and ranch seasoning.
6. Make your bread cubes with olive oil and salt. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Assemble the salad by starting with adding the lettuce to a bowl. Top with the tomatoes, chicken, bacon, croutons, and dressing. Garnish with grated parmesan cheese.

Enjoy!

Putting It All Together

Making a side? Grab your ingredients and head to the party or the patio! The main? Takes a bit more time but it's so delicious. 

Tips for Making Quick and Easy Side Dishes

• Use pre-cut vegetables to save time.
• Cook your side dishes in the oven while you are cooking your main course.
• Make a big batch of your favorite side dish and save it for later.

Conclusion

These are just a few ideas for quick and easy side dishes that you can make for your next meal. With a little planning, you can easily create a delicious and nutritious meal in no time.