I’ve been getting into major side dish ruts lately, have you?  No?  So it’s just me?  I usually focus too much attention on the main course and the sides get totally neglected.  Poor things!

I’ve decided to spice things up a bit and really focus on incorporating new side dishes into my life, using simple recipes and seasonal produce.  So far, I’ve been giddy with excitement over the results.  Here are 2 examples that I’ve been loving recently:

Tomato, Corn, and Avocado Salad: Combine halved cherry tomatoes, corn (fresh or canned), diced avocado, the juice of a lime, a swirl of extra virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked pepper.  Toss it all together and you have yourself one delicious little concoction.

Fingerling Potatoes and Cherry Tomatoes: Saute halved or quartered fingerling potatoes in a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil on medium-high heat.  Season with salt and pepper.  Stir every so often until the potatoes are cooked through and the cut side is nicely browned.  Add halved cherry tomatoes and allow them to cook for 2-3 mins.  Sprinkle in dried basil and thyme (or use fresh if you have it).  Add in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and a tablespoon of white wine vinegar.  Let it cook for a few more minutes and you’re set!  The result is super savory with a little punch from the vinegars.