10 Summer BBQ Food Side Dishes to Wow Your Guests

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Did you know that a great BBQ side dish can be the highlight of your summer cookout?

If you’re planning a summer BBQ, you might be worried about impressing your guests with more than just the main course. Finding the perfect summer BBQ food side dishes can be a challenge, especially if you want to offer something beyond the typical fare.

Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and family for a backyard BBQ.

Having a few go-to side dishes can take the stress out of planning and make your BBQ a hit.

In this article:

In this article, I will go through my top 10 summer BBQ food side dishes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic potato salad to grilled veggies, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-make dishes that are both delicious and nutritious.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer BBQ side dish that is loved by many. It’s easy to prepare, delicious and pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

To make grilled corn on the cob, start by removing the husks and silks from the corn.

Then, brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Place the corn on a hot grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.

There are many variations of grilled corn on the cob that you can try.

For example, you can add different seasonings like garlic powder, chili powder, or paprika to the olive oil before brushing it onto the corn.

Growing up my mom used to add pepper sauce, which was a staple in our West Indian home.

You can also sprinkle the cooked corn with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavour.

Grilled corn on the cob is a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main dishes like burgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken. It’s also a great addition to vegetarian and vegan BBQ menus.

2. Classic Potato Salad

If you’re looking for a classic side dish that’s always a hit at summer BBQs, look no further than potato salad. This dish has been a staple at outdoor gatherings for generations, and for good reason. It’s simple, tasty, and pairs well with just about any grilled meat.

To make a classic potato salad, start by boiling potatoes until they’re tender but still firm.

Then, mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, and mayonnaise.

Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard for added flavour.

Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavours to meld together.

One of the great things about potato salad is that it’s endlessly customizable.

You can add bacon, cheese, pickles, or any other ingredient you like to make it your own. Just keep in mind that the more ingredients you add, the more complex the flavor will be.

3. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic summer BBQ side dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This dish is made from shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy dressing, and it pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and burgers.

To make coleslaw, start by shredding the cabbage and carrots thinly. You can use a food processor or a mandoline slicer to make the job easier.

Once the veggies are shredded, mix them together in a large bowl.

Next, make the dressing.

There are many variations of coleslaw dressing, but a classic recipe includes mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt.

Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.

Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies and toss to coat.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the veggies to soften slightly.

Coleslaw is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking.

You can add other veggies like red onion, bell peppers, or jalapenos for extra flavor and crunch.

You can also experiment with different dressings like a tangy vinaigrette or a spicy chipotle mayo.

4. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a classic summer BBQ side dish that’s loved by many. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.

You can make them spicy, smoky, sweet, or tangy, depending on your preference.

To make delicious baked beans, start by sautéing onions and bacon until they are crispy.

Then, add four cans of pork and beans in tomato sauce and give them a good drain.

Next, add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, brown sugar, and molasses or maple syrup for sweetness. Mix well and transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.

Bake in the oven for 45 minutes or until the beans are hot and bubbly.

Baked beans pair well with a variety of summer BBQ foods, including grilled chicken, hot dogs, burgers, and ribs. They are also a great side dish for picnics, potlucks, and other outdoor gatherings.

If you want to switch things up, consider adding some extra ingredients to your baked beans.

You can add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick, diced pineapple for sweetness, or even beer for a unique flavor.

5. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for summer barbecues. It is made with fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze and olive oil.

Caprese salad is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.

To make a Caprese salad, start by slicing fresh mozzarella cheese and ripe tomatoes into thin rounds.

Arrange the cheese and tomatoes on a platter, alternating between the two.

Next, add fresh basil leaves on top of the cheese and tomatoes.

Drizzle the salad with a balsamic glaze and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Caprese salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

You can add other ingredients such as avocado, prosciutto, or grilled shrimp to make it more filling.

You can also use different types of tomatoes such as cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes to add more color and flavor to the dish.

6. Watermelon Feta Salad

Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer side dish? Look no further than watermelon feta salad. This salad is perfect for a BBQ, picnic, or any summer gathering.

To make this salad, simply cut up some fresh watermelon into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.

Add crumbled feta cheese and some fresh mint leaves. Gently stir to combine.

You can also add some rice vinegar and salt and pepper if desired.

If you want to take this salad to the next level, you can also add some sliced cucumbers, red onion slices, and balsamic vinegar or glaze.

These additional ingredients will add some extra flavor and texture to the salad.

Watermelon feta salad is not only delicious, but it’s also healthy.

Watermelon is a great source of hydration and is packed with vitamins A and C. Feta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium.

7. Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a classic side dish that is a must-have for your summer BBQ. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy hosts.

To make macaroni salad, you’ll need cooked macaroni noodles, mayonnaise, diced onions, celery, and pickles.

You can also add other ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, or bell peppers to give it a little extra flavor and texture.

The key to making a great macaroni salad is to not overcook the pasta and to let it cool completely before adding the other ingredients.

This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and ensure that the salad has a nice texture.

Macaroni salad is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of BBQ foods, such as burgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken. It’s also a great option for vegetarians.

8. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with any summer BBQ. Asparagus is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, and grilling it brings out its natural flavor and adds a smoky char.

To grill asparagus, first, wash the asparagus and pat it dry.

Then, snap off the tough ends and toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Place the asparagus perpendicular to the grill grates and grill with the lid closed for 6 to 10 minutes or until the spears are tender and crisp. Use tongs to roll the spears for even grill marks.

Grilled asparagus can be served as is or with a drizzle of lemon juice or balsamic glaze.

It can also be topped with shaved Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor.

In addition to being a tasty side dish, grilled asparagus is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in salads, pasta dishes, and more.

9. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic summer BBQ side dish that never goes out of style. They’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

To make deviled eggs, you’ll need hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and some seasoning. Once you’ve prepared the filling, you can get creative with the toppings. Some popular options include bacon bits, chives, and paprika.

If you’re looking for some inspiration for what to serve with your deviled eggs, you have plenty of options.

For a classic pairing, try serving your deviled eggs with potato salad or coleslaw. The creamy texture of the deviled eggs pairs perfectly with the tangy flavor of these two sides.

If you want to mix things up a bit, try serving your deviled eggs with some grilled vegetables. Grilled asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers are all great options. The smoky flavor of the vegetables complements the richness of the deviled eggs.

10. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a classic summer BBQ side dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. You can customize pasta salad with your favorite vegetables, meats, and dressings to make it your own.

Here are some tips for making the perfect pasta salad:

First, choose the right pasta shape. Short, sturdy shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne work best because they hold the dressing and mix-ins well.

Cook the pasta al dente, according to the package instructions, and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Next, add your mix-ins. Vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, and red onions add color and crunch. Cooked meats like chicken, shrimp, or bacon add protein and flavor. Cheese like feta, mozzarella, or Parmesan add richness and saltiness.

Finally, choose your dressing. A classic vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard is always a safe bet. Or you can try a creamy dressing made with mayo, sour cream, or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Pairing Side Dishes with Main BBQ Items

When hosting a summer BBQ, it’s essential to pair your main dishes with the right side dishes. The right side dish can complement the main dish and elevate the overall taste of the meal. Here are some suggestions for pairing side dishes with main BBQ items.

Meat Pairings

1. Burgers and Hot Dogs: Burgers and hot dogs are classic BBQ items that pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans alongside your burgers and hot dogs. These sides are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the party.
2. Ribs: Ribs are a BBQ staple that pairs well with tangy and sweet side dishes. Consider serving macaroni and cheese, corn on the cob, or grilled vegetables alongside your ribs. These sides add a nice balance to the rich and smoky flavor of the ribs.
3. Steak: Steak is a hearty BBQ item that pairs well with fresh and light side dishes. Consider serving a Caprese salad, grilled asparagus, or a simple green salad alongside your steak. These sides add a refreshing touch to the meal and help balance out the heavy flavors of the steak.

Vegetarian Pairings

1. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables are a great vegetarian option for a summer BBQ. Consider serving grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers alongside your main dishes. These sides are easy to prepare and can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to add some extra flavor.
2. Portobello Mushroom Burgers: Portobello mushroom burgers are a delicious vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers. Consider serving sweet potato fries, avocado salad, or quinoa salad alongside your mushroom burgers. These sides add some extra flavor and texture to the meal.
3. Tofu Skewers: Tofu skewers are a great vegetarian option for a summer BBQ. Consider serving a cucumber salad, edamame, or roasted sweet potatoes alongside your tofu skewers. These sides add some extra protein and fiber to the meal and help balance out the flavors of the tofu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some easy side dishes to complement a summer BBQ?

If you’re looking for easy side dishes to complement your summer BBQ, you can’t go wrong with Grilled Corn on the Cob, Classic Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Baked Beans, or Caprese Salad. These dishes are all crowd-pleasers and can be prepared in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy your BBQ.

Which side dishes are best for serving a large crowd at a BBQ?

When serving a large crowd at a BBQ, it’s essential to have side dishes that are easy to prepare and can be made in bulk. Some great options include Classic Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Baked Beans, Grilled Corn on the Cob, and Caprese Salad. These dishes are all easy to make in large quantities and are sure to please a crowd.

What healthy options can I prepare as BBQ side dishes?

If you’re looking for healthy options to serve at your summer BBQ, consider Grilled Vegetable Skewers, Quinoa Salad, Watermelon Salad, Grilled Pineapple, or Grilled Peaches. These dishes are all packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your guests.

Can you suggest side dishes that pair well with BBQ ribs?

If you’re serving BBQ ribs at your summer BBQ, you’ll want to pair them with side dishes that complement their smoky, savory flavor. Some great options include Baked Beans, Coleslaw, Potato Salad, Mac and Cheese, or Grilled Vegetables.

What are the top side dishes to bring to a summer barbecue gathering?

If you’re looking for the top side dishes to bring to a summer BBQ, you can’t go wrong with Classic Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Baked Beans, Grilled Corn on the Cob, or Caprese Salad. These dishes are all easy to make and are sure to be a hit with your fellow BBQ-goers.

What is a good menu for a BBQ that will serve approximately 10 guests?

If you’re planning a BBQ for approximately 10 guests, a good menu might include BBQ Chicken, Grilled Burgers, Grilled Vegetables, Classic Potato Salad, Coleslaw, and Baked Beans.

For dessert, you could serve Grilled Pineapple or Watermelon. This menu is sure to please a crowd and is easy to prepare in advance.