Summer BBQ Sides

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Summer BBQs are all about good food and great company, and these sides will make your gathering even more special. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, how fresh and flavorful they taste, and how they pair perfectly with your favorite grilled dishes.

• Quick and Simple: Most of these recipes come together in just a few steps, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the party.
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh herbs, zesty dressings, and seasonal veggies make these sides a hit with everyone at the table.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a creamy potato salad or a tangy coleslaw, these dishes are sure to disappear fast!

Recipe

Summer BBQ sides are essential for complementing grilled meats and adding variety to your outdoor meals. These dishes are designed to be easy to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred.
3. Let the corn cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.
4. In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Notes:

• For added flavor, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese or a pinch of chili powder.
• This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Serving:

Serves 4

Calories:

Approx. 180 calories per serving

Cuisine:

American

Equipment

Preparing the perfect summer BBQ sides requires the right tools to guarantee efficiency and ease. Proper equipment can make all the difference in achieving delicious results.

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grill or oven (depending on the recipe)
• Serving platters or bowls
• Tongs or spatula
• Storage containers for leftovers

Nutrition

These BBQ sides are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional value per serving.

What to Serve With This Recipe

I love pairing fresh salads with BBQ dishes—they add a crisp, cool contrast to smoky flavors. Grilled veggies are another favorite of mine, since they soak up that charred taste while keeping things light. Let’s talk about my go-to combos that’ll make your spread shine.

Fresh Salad Options

Fresh salads are a summer BBQ lifesaver, adding a crisp, light contrast to all those smoky, savory flavors. I love tossing together a simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, or a tangy coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing. A watermelon-feta-mint combo is another favorite—it’s rejuvenating and unexpected. Don’t forget a classic Caesar or a quinoa salad for something heartier. They’re all easy, crowd-pleasing picks.

Grilled Vegetable Ideas

Nothing beats the smoky, charred flavor of grilled veggies at a summer BBQ—they’re simple, versatile, and always a hit. I love tossing zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling. Corn on the cob’s another favorite—just throw it on the grill in its husk for easy peeling later. Don’t forget asparagus or portobellos, either. They’re perfect alongside burgers or steak!