BBQ Side Dishes: Perfect Pairings for Grilled Feasts

Summer is the perfect time for barbecues, and nothing completes a barbecue like delicious side dishes. You can elevate your cookout with a variety of tasty BBQ side dishes that will have everyone coming back for seconds. classics like coleslaw and potato salad are always a hit, but don’t be afraid to try something new and exciting.

One standout option is corn salsa. This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the crunch of bell peppers and the zing of lime juice. It’s versatile too; you can serve it as a dip or a topping for grilled meats. Another crowd-pleaser is the KFC coleslaw recipe. This classic pairs perfectly with any barbecue fare, offering a refreshing and creamy complement to smoky dishes.

Consider spicing up your menu with an Old Bay-spiced potato salad. This twist on the traditional potato salad features a zesty vinaigrette, adding a burst of flavor that’s sure to impress your guests. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect side dishes to make your summer barbecue unforgettable.

Classic BBQ Side Dishes

When planning a BBQ, you want to include a variety of side dishes that everyone will enjoy. This means offering creamy potato salads, crunchy coleslaw, flavorful baked beans, and versatile corn-based dishes. Each of these classics can elevate your cookout and keep guests asking for more.

Potato Salad Varieties

Potato salad is a must-have at any barbecue. There are many types you can make, each with its own twist. Classic potato salad usually includes boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and celery for crunch. For a tangy flavor, you can add pickles or vinegar.

German potato salad uses a vinegar-based dressing and is served warm with bacon. Red potato salad has a milder flavor and often includes dill and chives. No matter the variety, potato salad is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ.

Distinctive Coleslaw Recipes

Coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your BBQ spread. KFC coleslaw is a crowd favorite, using a creamy base of mayonnaise, cabbage, and carrots, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a hint of lemon juice.

For a twist, try coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing. Red cabbage slaw with apple cider vinegar offers a sweet and tangy taste. Asian coleslaw features a mix of cabbage, carrots, and a ginger-soy dressing. Each recipe brings its own unique flavor, making coleslaw a versatile and must-have side dish.

Baked Beans and Legumes

Baked beans are another staple for barbecues. Traditional baked beans are cooked with molasses, brown sugar, and bacon, offering a sweet and savory flavor. They are slow-cooked to perfection, making them rich and hearty.

For a twist, you can add barbecue sauce or chipotle peppers to give them a smoky kick. If looking for variety, try three-bean salad, which includes kidney beans, chickpeas, and green beans marinated in a tangy dressing. These legume dishes are perfect for any cookout, adding depth and variety to your spread.

Corn-Based Delights

Corn is versatile and loved in many forms at BBQs. Corn on the cob is a simple favorite; just grill it and add butter and salt. Mexican street corn, or elote, is another crowd-pleaser, coated with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.

For a refreshing side, corn salsa mixes fresh grilled corn with bell peppers, onions, jalapeños, and lime juice. Corn pudding is a sweet, creamy dish that pairs well with spicy BBQ meats. These corn-based options add both sweetness and texture to your meal.

Each classic BBQ side dish brings something unique to the table, making your cookout a well-rounded and delightful experience for all your guests.

Fresh and Light Sides

Including fresh and light sides at your BBQ can make your meal colorful and refreshing. These options focus on using fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs to complement grilled meats and heavier dishes.

Salad Offerings

Fresh salads are an excellent addition to any BBQ. Consider a vibrant cucumber and tomato salad with a touch of olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing bite. An avocado salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a lime-cilantro dressing brings creaminess and tanginess together.

Another favorite is pea salad, which combines green peas, diced cheese, and a light dressing. For those looking for protein, a chickpea salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and parsley is both filling and nutritious. These salads are light, easy to prepare, and perfect for a summer side.

Fruit and Vegetable Medleys

Fruit and vegetable medleys add a burst of color and nutrition to your BBQ spread. A melon salad with a mix of watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew, drizzled with honey and lime, is refreshing and sweet.

Corn salsa offers a sweet and spicy option. Use fresh grilled corn, chopped bell peppers, onions, and a hint of jalapeño for a kick. For a more savory option, a mango corn salsa combines the sweetness of ripe mango with the crunch of corn and red onions. These medleys are not only healthy but also add a festive touch to your table.

Creative Pickles and Ferments

Pickles and ferments can be a unique and tangy addition to your BBQ. Quick pickled cucumbers with dill and garlic are crisp and full of flavor. Another interesting option is pickled red onions, which add a pop of color and a tangy bite to burgers and sandwiches.

Consider trying fermented vegetables like kimchi or sauerkraut. They bring a complex flavor and are known for their probiotic benefits. Adding these tangy treats to your BBQ provides a variety of tastes and textures, ensuring that every bite is exciting and delicious.

Grilled Side Dishes

Grilling side dishes elevates your BBQ to new heights with smoky flavors and charred textures. From skewers packed with vegetables to flame-kissed delights, these sides are sure to impress your guests.

Skewers and Kebabs

Grilled veggie skewers are fantastic for adding vibrant color and flavor to your BBQ spread. Use bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. Cut your veggies into chunks and marinate them in olive oil, garlic, salt, and your favorite herbs. Skewer them and grill on medium heat until tender and slightly charred.

You can also create grilled kebabs with a mix of meats and vegetables. Chicken, shrimp, or steak pieces work well with bell peppers, onions, and pineapples. Just remember to soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Vegetarian Grill Specials

Vegetarians will love grilled corn on the cob and grilled eggplant. For grilled corn, peel back the husks, remove silk, and soak the cobs in water for 15 minutes. Grill them for around 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and charred. Brush with butter or your preferred seasoning.

Grilled eggplant slices, seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil, are another excellent choice. Grill the slices on high heat until they’re soft and have nice grill marks. They’re great in sandwiches or as a side dish on their own. Grilled sweet potatoes, cut into rounds and seasoned with a bit of paprika, add a sweet and smoky flavor to your meal.

Flame-Kissed Flavor Bombs

For intense flavor, try flame-kissed green beans and zucchini. Grilled green beans tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper and then grilled until they have a smoky flavor make a delightful side. Grilled zucchini rounds, about 1/4-inch thick, seasoned with garlic powder and fresh herbs, are another must-try.

Grilled sweet potatoes are another crowd-pleaser. Cut them into thick slices, toss with a mixture of olive oil, cumin, and chili powder, and grill until tender. Their natural sweetness is enhanced by the grill’s charred, smoky flavor, creating a deliciously unique side dish.

International Flavors

Exploring BBQ side dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world can add delightful new tastes to your gatherings. Whether you’re interested in zesty Mexican street corn or a refreshing Mediterranean orzo salad, there is something to excite every palate.

South of the Border Inspirations

Mexican cuisine offers many vibrant side dishes for a BBQ. One popular choice is Mexican street corn, also known as “elote.” This dish features grilled corn coated with a mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, creating a tangy and savory flavor profile.

Another great option is a Mexican street corn salad, which combines the elements of elote with additional ingredients like cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño for extra freshness. These dishes are fun, easy to prepare, and sure to impress your guests.

Mediterranean Morsels

Mediterranean side dishes are known for their fresh, bold flavors. Try making an orzo salad with ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is light, tangy, and complements grilled meats wonderfully.

Another excellent choice is a simple summer squash sauté with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano. The dish is both colorful and bursting with flavor, making it a great addition to your BBQ spread.

Asian-Influenced Accompaniments

Asian cuisine provides numerous delicious side dishes to enhance your BBQ menu. A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of soy sauce offers a refreshing and tangy taste.

You could also prepare grilled veggies like bok choy, bell peppers, and mushrooms, tossing them in a savory marinade made from soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and garlic. These Asian-inspired sides bring a unique umami flavor that your guests will love.

These international flavors turn your BBQ into a global feast, offering something for every taste preference. Mix and match dishes from different cuisines for a diverse and exciting menu.

Sauces and Condiments

A BBQ is incomplete without a variety of sauces and condiments. These additions elevate the flavors and add a personal touch to each dish.

Ketchup is a classic that pairs well with grilled meats. Its tangy sweetness enhances burgers, hot dogs, and even grilled veggies.

BBQ Sauce comes in many styles, from sweet and smoky to spicy and tangy. Try making your own by combining ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.

Ranch Dressing is a favorite for many. Its creamy texture and herbaceous flavor make it perfect for dipping veggies or drizzling over salads.

Creamy Dressings like blue cheese or Caesar add a rich flavor to your salads. They also serve as great dips for grilled chicken or steak.

Sour Cream is versatile and works well with baked potatoes, tacos, or as a base for creamy dips. Mix in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives for an extra punch of flavor.

Fresh Herbs such as dill, parsley, and chives can be added to many sauces and dressings. They bring a bright, fresh taste to your dishes.

Create a simple herb sauce by mixing chopped fresh herbs with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. This can be drizzled over meats or vegetables for a zesty finish.

For something different, try a yogurt-based dressing with cucumber, garlic, and mint. It’s refreshing and pairs well with grilled lamb or chicken.

Here’s a quick list to have on hand:

• Ketchup
• BBQ Sauce
• Ranch Dressing
• Creamy Dressings
• Sour Cream
• Fresh Herbs

These sauces and condiments are sure to make your BBQ more flavorful and enjoyable.