20 Southern Recipes That Celebrate Seasonal Color
Southern cooking isn’t just about comfort—it’s also bursting with color, especially when fresh seasonal produce hits the kitchen. From vibrant tomatoes to golden cornbread, juicy peaches to deep green collards, these recipes showcase the full palette of the South. Whether you’re serving Sunday supper or a breezy porch dinner, these dishes bring flavor and color to the table.
1. Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter
Golden yellow with crispy edges, it’s the unofficial bread of the South—and it goes with just about everything.
2. Tomato Pie
Layers of juicy red tomatoes, creamy mayo, and cheddar cheese in a flaky crust. A summer classic that’s as bold as it is buttery.
3. Collard Greens with Garlic and Onion
Deep, earthy green and packed with smoky flavor—especially when simmered with a splash of vinegar and a pinch of spice.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy, tangy slices with that signature golden crust. Top them with pimento cheese for even more Southern flair.
5. Hoppin’ John
A vibrant bowl of black-eyed peas, rice, and peppers—traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day but perfect anytime.
6. Shrimp and Grits
Pink shrimp, creamy yellow grits, and pops of green scallion—Southern comfort with serious style.
7. Pimento Cheese Dip
Bright orange from shredded cheddar and pimentos. Perfect with crackers, celery, or slathered on white bread.
8. Southern Succotash
A colorful medley of corn, lima beans, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper. Light, fresh, and full of texture.
9. Watermelon and Feta Salad
Juicy red melon, bright mint, and crumbled feta over greens. A Southern summer on a plate.
10. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble
Orange sweet potatoes topped with brown sugar and crunchy nuts. A Thanksgiving staple that shines year-round.
11. Buttermilk Biscuits with Jam
Golden and fluffy with a glossy jam smear—add some berry preserves for a colorful, comforting bite.
12. Okra and Tomatoes
This Southern duo stews into a saucy, ruby-red side with green okra rings throughout.
13. Rainbow Slaw
Red cabbage, carrots, green onions, and a vinegar dressing—crunchy, tangy, and the perfect BBQ side.
14. Peach Cobbler
Juicy orange peaches bubbling under a golden biscuit topping. Best served warm with ice cream melting on top.
15. Deviled Eggs with Pickled Beet Dye
Hard-boiled eggs with a pink hue from beet brine and a creamy, tangy yolk filling. Pretty and potluck-ready.
16. Crawfish Étouffée
Bright red crawfish tails in a golden roux with peppers and parsley. Spicy, rich, and unmistakably Southern.
17. Southern-Style Green Beans with Bacon
Long-simmered green beans with flecks of crispy bacon and onion. Simple and satisfying.
18. Blackberry Jam Cake
Deep purple fruit swirled into spiced batter and topped with caramel or glaze. A forgotten gem of Southern baking.
19. Rainbow Grits Bowl
Top creamy grits with sautéed spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and a soft egg. Every bite is a different color.
20. Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
That bold scarlet crumb and snow-white icing? A Southern celebration in cake form.