It seems like a staple at most summer cookouts and/or potlucks is pasta salad.

Carbohydrate-filled pasta is not what I want to spend my carb budget on for cool, refreshing summer foods.

For your next summer side dish, consider nixing the rotini and bringing this low-carb option instead.

Ingredients:

• Italian or vinaigrette salad dressing
• Cucumber, peeled and cut into chunks
• Tomato, cut in chunks or diced… depending on your mood
• (I usually stick to the two, but you can add other veggies, some options include: black olives, red or white onions, red or green peppers, chopped celery)
• Amounts depend on how much you want to make.

Steps:

1. Prep your vegetables by peeling, chopping, etc.
2. Place in a large bowl or container
3. Drizzle with enough Italian dressing to lightly cover
4. Mix it all together with a large spoon (or put the lid on the container and shake!)
5. Refrigerate until ready to serve

What’s your favorite summer side dish?