BBQ side dishes are the perfect addition to any barbecue meal. They complement the main dishes and add variety to your cookout. From salads to baked beans, there are plenty of tasty sides to choose from.
BBQ Side Dishes Recipes
These BBQ side dish recipes stand out with their flavor combinations and ease of preparation. Think creamy coleslaw, tangy potato salad, and refreshing watermelon feta salad. Each recipe is designed to enhance the barbecue experience, offering delicious sides that can be prepared quickly and enjoyed by everyone.
Dietary Preferences and Occasions
These side dishes cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Suitable for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or even just a casual backyard meal, these recipes are versatile. With choices that suit every palate, you can ensure that all your guests leave happy and satisfied.
Tips and Tricks
- Prep Ahead: Many side dishes can be prepared ahead of time, saving you stress on the day of the BBQ.
- Keep It Cool: Use coolers or ice packs to keep salads and dairy-based dishes fresh.
- Mix Textures: Include a mix of crunchy, creamy, and fresh sides for varied textures.
- Season Well: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Keep it Simple: Choose recipes with a few key ingredients for easy and quick preparation.
Chimichurri Potato Salad
Chimichurri Potato Salad is a fresh and zesty twist perfect for any summer cookout. This no-mayo salad mixes baby potatoes with a vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, red chili flakes, and olive oil. Serve it warm or chilled, and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free side dish.
Ingredients:
- Fresh cilantro
- Flat-leaf parsley
- Mexican oregano
- Red wine vinegar
- Lemon or lime juice
- Garlic
- Shallot
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red chili flakes
- Baby potatoes
- Salt and pepper
Time required:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 20 minutes
- Total: 30 minutes
Frito Crack Corn Salad
Frito Crack Corn Salad is the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and crunchy! This easy, no-cook dish combines corn, cheddar cheese, bacon, jalapeños, and ranch dressing, topped with crunchy Fritos. It’s great for summer BBQs or picnics.
Ingredients:
- Whole kernel corn
- Southwest corn
- Mayonnaise
- Ranch dressing
- Onion
- Jalapeños
- Bacon bits
- Cheddar cheese
- Smoked paprika
- Corn chips
Time required:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Total: 10 minutes
Creamy Pea Salad
Creamy Pea Salad is a tasty and easy summer side dish, perfect for any BBQ. Made with sour cream, ranch, and topped with crispy bacon, it’s both creamy and tangy. Ready in minutes, it’s fresh and packed with garden peas, great with seafood, chicken, or meat.
Ingredients:
- Sour cream
- Ranch dressing
- Frozen peas
- Cheddar cheese
- Red onion
- Bacon
- Salt and pepper
Time required:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Chill: 1 hour
- Total: 1 hour 10 minutes
Air Fryer French Fries
Air Fryer French Fries are a healthy and crispy treat, using much less oil than deep-frying. Made with russet potatoes, olive oil, and a pinch of salt, these fries are golden and tasty. Customize with your favorite seasonings for extra flavor!
Ingredients:
- Russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
Time required:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 15-20 minutes
- Total: 25-30 minutes
Creamed Corn
Creamed Corn is a holiday favorite that’s sweet, savory, and super creamy. Perfect for any meal, it’s made with fresh or frozen corn, butter, and a touch of Parmesan for extra flavor. Easy to make, it’s sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
- Butter
- Shallot
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic
- Corn
- Heavy cream
- Whole milk
- Flour
- Parmesan cheese
Time required:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 20 minutes
- Total: 30 minutes
Grilled Artichoke Recipe with Magical Aioli
Grill artichokes to get a smoky flavor and serve them with a delightful lemon aioli dip. This easy recipe is perfect for any BBQ. Preheat the grill, boil the artichokes, then grill them to perfection. The lemon aioli adds a tasty touch that you will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 artichokes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Lemon Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Time Required:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
BBQ Grilled Eggplant Steaks
Enjoy tasty BBQ Grilled Eggplant Steaks at your next cookout! These eggplant slices are covered with a smoky dry rub and grilled to perfection. Finish with your favorite BBQ sauce for a yummy glaze. They’re great as a main dish or a side.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole eggplant
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- BBQ sauce
Time Required:
- Preparation: 5 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Enjoy a quick and tasty side dish with Grilled Zucchini and Squash. Slice the veggies, toss them in olive oil, and grill them to a perfect crisp. The fresh garlic adds a delightful flavor, making this a wonderful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini
- Yellow squash
- Onion
- Olive oil
- Fresh garlic
Time Required:
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
Grilled Peach Recipe
Try something new with this Grilled Peach Recipe. Sweet peaches are grilled until they are warm and caramelized. It’s a simple treat that’s perfect for summer days. Enjoy the mix of sweet and smoky flavors that make these peaches a great side or dessert!
Ingredients:
- Fresh peaches
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Ground cinnamon
Time Required:
- Preparation: 5 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Enjoy a healthy and tasty snack with Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries. These fries are crispy, tender, and made with just a bit of oil, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. They cook in about 15 minutes, making them a quick and easy side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tbsp high heat oil (avocado, grape seed, or coconut)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Time Required:
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes