13 Sides from Black Food Bloggers to Serve for a Jubilant Juneteenth

Summertime is almost here which means so is Juneteenth. The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned about the Emancipation Proclamation, three years after the Executive Order was made law.

My great-grandfather Simon Edwards fought in the Civil War with the 8th United States Colored Heavy Artillery. Formed in Kentucky in 1864, some people vehemently objected to Black men being recruited into the armed forces. Many were intent upon keeping Black people subservient socially, economically, and politically. I could not in good conscience neglect the legacy of my great-grandfather and the brave men who fought by his side, so that we may enjoy the freedoms we do today.

Food is the centerpiece of African American holiday traditions and Juneteenth is no exception. Some parts of Texas are almost synonymous with barbecue, a cooking method originated by Indigenous and African Americans—although my favorite summertime entrée is fresh caught, fried fish or shrimp. A Juneteenth cookout would not be proper, however, without a myriad of side dishes to delight the imagination and the most discriminating of palates.

Last year, more than 30 Black culinary creators from Eat The Culture came together in kinship to celebrate the day with reverence. A few of us decided to cook up a sumptuous selection of side dishes any summer gathering should include. Here's what we've got cooking.

Spicy Sausage and Baked Bean Casserole

"This popular, hearty side served at gatherings will be the star of the show! The best spicy sausage and baked bean casserole recipe will become a staple in your home for years to come." — Seasoned To Taste

Southern Baked Beans

"Sweet and smoky Southern baked beans flavored with onions, bell pepper, garlic, plenty of spices, and ground turkey are the perfect cookout side dish. These beans are loaded with flavor and will be your go-to side dish all summer long!" — Pink Owl Kitchen

Southern Potato Salad

"This Classic Southern Potato Salad recipe produces a creamy, smooth, crunchy, and well-seasoned potato salad in my family for centuries. Serve it during the cookout, tailgating, family events, or any time you want some good potato salad." — Kenneth Temple

Smoked Macaroni and Cheese

"Growing up, macaroni and cheese was an essential side dish for cookouts, celebrations, church functions, and holidays. I always felt like I hit the lottery, if I was the first to break the serving spoon through the golden crust on top of a freshly baked pan of macaroni and cheese. The steam and savory smell of cheese will forever live in my mind. It’s the perfect celebration food." — Her Mise En Place

Southern Caviar

"Affectionately known as "Southern Caviar" this delicious Black-Eyed Pea Salad is the perfect combo of smoky and zesty. Featuring smoky black-eyed peas, onions, peppers, celery, and cucumber dressed in Italian dressing, this dish is the perfect side to your favorite summer mains." — Geo's Table

White Beans with Tomato Chow Chow

"Summer is near so White Beans w/Tomato Chow Chow should be on the menu. Great for picnics, and cookouts, your vegan guests will rejoice." — Collards Are The Old Kale

Old Fashioned Candied Sweet Potatoes

"Old Fashioned Candied Sweet Potatoes are a classic soul food dish. Melt-in-your-mouth sweet potatoes baked in a buttery brown sugar glaze with warm spices and vanilla make this great recipe unforgettable! With the caramel notes and luscious texture, this dish is a must for holiday dinners." — Britney Breaks Bread

Kachumbari

"Kachumbari is a vibrant East-African tomato-based salad. A sister to pico de gallo, use it as a side dish to accompany your summer barbecued dishes, use it in burrito bowls, omelets, and so much more!" — We Eat At Last

Strawberry Mango Romaine Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette

"Add some variety to your salad by including chopped juicy summery fruits to give it a punch of unique flavor. Drizzle on bright, sweet, tangy raspberry dressing and we've got ourselves an EPIC summer salad!" — That Green Lyfe

Cherry Tabouleh

"This vibrant cherry tabbouleh combines verdant parsley, juicy cherries, nutty fonio, and the crunchy pecans for a unique twist on the traditional tabouleh. The burst of flavors and textures will be the perfect compliment to all of your Juneteenth goodies." — Savor and Sage

Blood Orange, Pickled Beets, and Feta Salad

"This easy to make salad is a vibrant medley of flavors featuring blood orange, pickled beetroot, walnut and feta cheese. It's drizzled with a homemade orange vinaigrette that adds a hint of sweetness and tanginess. This salad is an eye-catching blend of colors and textures." — Gimme From Scratch

Rainbow Fruit Salad with Agave-Lime Syrup

"This easy, fresh fruit salad tastes as wonderfully as it looks! Served with a light agave-lime syrup for a touch of extra sweetness, it makes the perfect side for a summer day cookout!" — Coined Cuisine

Watermelon Salad with Cilantro Honey Lime Dressing

"This summery watermelon salad recipe with cilantro honey lime dressing is deliciously refreshing. With pearl couscous, red onion, and arugula sprinkled with cheese on top, and a dressing that perfectly combines zesty, savory and sweet! It’s the perfect side dish to have at a barbecue party, picnic or summer potluck." — Brazilian Kitchen Abroad