Showstopping Sides

BLT Macaroni Salad

Makes 6 servings

Turn a favorite Southern sandwich into a potluck-worthy side with this pasta salad.

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 (16-ounce) package elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions
1 (16-ounce) package thick-cut bacon, chopped and cooked
3 cups chopped tomatoes
1 (6-ounce) bag fresh baby spinach

1. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, basil, lemon zest and juice, salt, garlic, and pepper until smooth. Stir in pasta, bacon, and tomatoes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Stir in spinach just before serving.

Sweet-Spicy Sausage and Bacon Baked Beans

Makes 6 to 8 servings

A little heat and a little sweet take these baked beans to the next level.

9 slices thick-cut bacon
1 (16-ounce) package spicy ground breakfast sausage
1 cup chopped yellow onion
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
2 (15-ounce) cans pork and beans
2 (15-ounce) cans navy beans
1 cup barbecue sauce*
¾ cup ketchup
3 tablespoons Worcestershire