Why Amazing BBQ Side Dishes Are Essential
When it comes to a memorable summer cookout, BBQ side dishes can often steal the show. These flavorful accompaniments aren’t just additions; they complete the meal and lift your outdoor cooking experience.
Quick Picks for Classic BBQ Side Dishes:
- Creamy Potato Salad
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Loaded Mac and Cheese
- Tangy Coleslaw
At Grill Wizard Oz, we understand the importance of choosing the right sides to complement your BBQ feast. A well-chosen side dish can balance the flavors of your main courses and add variety to your plate.
From age-old favorites like potato salad and baked beans to innovative creations like spicy pepper jelly coleslaw, there’s a side dish for everyone. We’ll guide you through both classic and creative options to ensure your next BBQ stands out.
Classic BBQ Side Dishes
Classic Potato Salad
Potato salad is a must-have at any BBQ. This classic side dish features baby potatoes with a naturally sweet flavor and velvety texture. The creamy dressing is a blend of mayonnaise, herbs, onion, and celery, creating a simple yet delicious accompaniment to your BBQ spread.
Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw is perfect for cutting through rich, fatty, smoked meats. Matt Horn’s version uses shredded red and green cabbage with a dressing made of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and honey. The addition of dill gives it a fresh, herbal note. Whether you prefer Memphis-style with bell peppers or Lexington-style with a ketchup-based dressing, coleslaw remains a BBQ staple.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are another classic that can’t be missed. Gina Mae’s recipe dresses up store-bought BBQ sauce with extra brown sugar and apple cider vinegar to balance the smoky flavor. This one-pot wonder is easy to make and can feed a crowd, making it ideal for any BBQ gathering.
Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ. This version uses chunks of cheddar and Colby cheese for a gooey texture, topped with buttery breadcrumbs for added crunch. The combination of creamy and crispy makes this dish irresistible.
Cornbread
Cornbread is the perfect side to soak up all the BBQ goodness. Follow the three rules for a savory, crispy crust: use buttermilk, preheat your skillet, and don’t overmix the batter. The result is a golden, crispy, and savory cornbread that pairs perfectly with any BBQ dish.
Next, we’ll explore some creative BBQ side dishes that will add a twist to your traditional BBQ fare.
Creative BBQ Side Dishes
For a sweet and tangy twist, mango salad is a must-try. This vibrant dish combines fresh mango, jicama, red pepper, and red onion. A dash of chili-lime seasoning lifts the flavors, making it a refreshing and spicy side that pairs well with grilled meats.
Ramen noodle salad is an inventive and crunchy addition to your BBQ spread. This salad features mandarin orange slices, green onion, and a tangy dressing. Crushed ramen noodles add a delightful crunch. It’s a unique dish that will impress your guests.
If you’re looking for a nutritious and smoky side, grilled mushrooms are perfect. Cremini mushrooms are coated in soy-garlic butter and grilled with green onion until brown and tender. This simple yet flavorful dish offers an earthy complement to your BBQ mains.
Cowboy caviar is a colorful and fresh side that’s halfway between a salad and a salsa. It includes black-eyed peas, black beans, tomatoes, bell peppers, and jalapeño. This dish is both hearty and refreshing, making it a great addition to any BBQ.
For a tangy and creamy side, try dill pickle deviled eggs. The creamy filling mixed with dill and a hint of pickle brine creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to be a hit. These eggs are a delightful twist on a classic BBQ favorite.
Healthy BBQ Side Dishes
Grilled corn salad is a must-have for any BBQ. Start with charred corn to bring out its natural sweetness. Toss it with fresh green onion and a honey-lime butter dressing for a zesty kick. This salad is easy to make and packed with flavor.
For a healthy and delicious option, try vegan portobello pizzas. Use large portobello mushrooms as the base. Top them with tomato sauce and vegan cheese. Grill until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted. These pizzas are perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Avocado salad is another light and refreshing side. Combine ripe avocados with tomatoes and cucumbers. Dress it with a tangy salsa verde dressing. This simple yet flavorful salad is a great way to add some healthy fats to your BBQ spread.
Grilled veggie skewers are a colorful and nutritious addition to your BBQ. Use a mix of fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Marinate them in a balsamic dressing for extra flavor. Skewer the veggies and grill until they are tender and slightly charred.
Cucumber salad is a crisp and cool side dish that’s easy to prepare. Slice cucumbers thinly using a mandoline. Toss them with vinegar, thinly sliced onion, a bit of sugar, and salt. This salad is refreshing and perfect for hot summer days.
Unique BBQ Side Dishes
Succotash
Succotash is a colorful and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for showcasing summer produce. Corn, lima beans, bell peppers, and tomatoes come together in this classic dish. The combination of fresh veggies and a touch of butter makes it a crowd-pleaser. Carla Hall’s succotash is a must-try for your next barbecue.
Esquites
Esquites, also known as Mexican street corn salad, is a vibrant and tangy side. Charred corn and poblano peppers are mixed with a garlicky dressing for a burst of flavor. This dish is a fantastic way to bring some Mexican flair to your BBQ. Cotija cheese adds a salty finish, but feta works too if you can’t find Cotija.
Hushpuppies
Hushpuppies are a Southern favorite, and adding Andouille sausage takes them to the next level. These crispy cornbread bites are mixed with cheddar and diced jalapeño for a spicy kick. They are deep-fried to golden perfection, making them irresistible. Serve them hot with a side of remoulade or your favorite dipping sauce.
Grilled Okra
Grilled okra is a simple yet delicious side dish. Toss the okra with lemon pepper seasoning and grill until they are slightly charred. The charred flavor combined with a squeeze of fresh lemon makes this dish a standout. It’s a great way to enjoy okra without the sliminess that some people dislike.
Grilled Eggplant
Grilled eggplant is quick and easy to prepare. Slice the eggplant and sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture. Grill until tender and smoky. The smoky goodness of grilled eggplant pairs well with a variety of meats. Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs for added flavor.
These unique BBQ side dishes will add a fresh twist to your cookout, making it memorable for all your guests. Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about BBQ side dishes to help you plan your perfect menu.
Frequently Asked Questions about BBQ Side Dishes
What are some good sides for BBQ?
Good sides for BBQ are essential to complement the smoky flavors of grilled meats. Here are some top picks:
- Potato Salad: Creamy and rich, made with baby potatoes, herbs, onion, and celery.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky, often improved with brown sugar and apple cider vinegar.
- Pasta Salad: Cool and refreshing, often with veggies, cheese, and a tangy dressing.
- Watermelon Wedges: Simple and refreshing, perfect for hot summer days.
- Cornbread Sticks: Buttery, with a crispy crust, perfect for soaking up BBQ sauces.
What to bring to a barbecue potluck?
When attending a barbecue potluck, bring sides that are easy to transport and sure to please:
- Potato Salad: A classic that everyone loves.
- Baked Beans with Bacon: Adds a savory twist to the traditional baked beans.
- Avocado and Shrimp Salad: Light and fresh, with creamy avocado and tender shrimp.
- Three Cheese Baked Mac: A gooey, cheesy delight made with cheddar, Colby, and a breadcrumb topping.
- Sweet Potato Salad: A healthier twist on the classic, with a hint of sweetness and crunch.
What is a classic side dish for a cookout?
Classic cookout sides are timeless and universally beloved:
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled and buttery, it’s a must-have at any BBQ.
- Coleslaw: Cool and tangy, made with shredded cabbage, apple cider vinegar, mustard, honey, and dill.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and comforting, a staple at any cookout.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky, a perfect match for grilled meats.
- Pasta Salad: Versatile and refreshing, with endless variations to suit any taste.
These classic and creative BBQ side dishes will ensure your next cookout is a hit. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and textures to find the perfect combination for your BBQ menu!
Conclusion
At Grill Wizard Oz, we believe that the right BBQ side dishes can lift your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie, our expert-driven content and comprehensive guides are here to help you make informed decisions.
Our team of grilling enthusiasts and food experts rigorously tests and reviews each recipe, ensuring you get only the best recommendations. From classic sides like potato salad and coleslaw to creative twists like mango salad and ramen noodle salad, we’ve got you covered.
Investing in the right outdoor kitchen and mastering the perfect side dishes means more than just cooking—it’s about creating memorable moments with friends and family. With our detailed reviews and insights, you can steer the myriad of options available and choose the best equipment and recipes for your needs.
For more detailed information and tips on outdoor cooking, check out our guides.
Happy grilling!
