Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July party or just having some friends over for dinner, grilling is an easy way to add a little extra flavor to your side dishes.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite recipes that are sure to be crowd-pleasers, whether it’s a family BBQ or an intimate dinner party.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Sides dishes can make or break a BBQ party, so it’s essential to choose wisely. |
| Grilled side dishes can add a unique smoky flavor and complement the main dishes. |
| There are plenty of grilled side dish options available, including salads, vegetables, and fruits. |
| Preparing side dishes ahead of time can save time and reduce stress during the party. |
| Pairing grilled side dishes with the right beverage can enhance the guests’ overall experience. |
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious side dish. They’re also incredibly easy to grill, which means that you can enjoy this dish without having to turn on the oven or heat up your kitchen in the summer.
Grilling sweet potatoes is really simple! All you need is some aluminum foil, olive oil spray, and your favorite herbs and spices.
The best way to season them is with salt, pepper, garlic powder and paprika. You can also add cumin for an extra kick of flavor.
When grilling sweet potatoes for a crowd it’s best if you prepare them ahead of time so they have time to cool down before serving them at your barbecue party or picnic outdoors!
If you’re looking for more grilled side dish ideas, our article on 15 Grilled Side Dishes That Will Make Your BBQ the Best on the Block is worth checking out. You’ll find some unique and delicious grilled sides that will impress your guests and elevate your BBQ game
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a great dish to make at a BBQ because it can be made ahead of time and served cold. You can use any type of pasta you want, and add any veggies or meats that sound good to you.
I like to make my pasta salad with bowtie pasta, corn, onions, broccoli, tomatoes, avocado and dressing (usually vinaigrette).
Pasta Salad Recipe Ideas
| Recipe Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Classic Italian Pasta Salad | A classic recipe that features cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, and Italian dressing. |
| BLT Pasta Salad | This salad is a twist on the classic BLT sandwich, featuring cooked pasta, bacon, lettuce, grape tomatoes, and ranch dressing. |
| Greek Pasta Salad | A light and refreshing pasta salad with feta cheese, olives, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and homemade Greek vinaigrette. |
| Pesto Pasta Salad | A simple and delicious pasta salad with cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a homemade basil pesto dressing. |
| Spinach Artichoke Pasta Salad | A creamy and tasty pasta salad recipe that features cooked pasta, artichokes, spinach, parmesan cheese, and a creamy dressing. |
Grilled Corn with Spicy Aioli
Make the aioli by combining all ingredients in a small bowl and stirring until well combined, or whisking in an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on low speed for about 1 minute, or until creamy. (Can be made up to 1 day ahead; cover and refrigerate.)
Grill corn over direct heat, turning occasionally and rotating ears every 5 minutes or so, until lightly charred on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes total; remove from grill and let cool slightly before serving with spicy mayonnaise (if using).
Grilled Pineapple
Grilling pineapple is a great way to bring out its natural sweetness, and it’s also an awesome side dish for your next barbecue. The best part? It doesn’t take much time or effort to make this super flavorful side dish!
Here’s how:
First, slice the pineapple vertically in half. Then cut off both ends (use them in cocktails), so that you’re left with two even halves. Next, slice each of those halves into 1/2-inch rings so that you have eight wedges per whole pineapple.
Make sure your grill is hot enough beforehand so that when you place the rings on there they’ll cook quickly you want them nice and golden brown but not charred!
Once they’re done grilling, remove them from heat immediately (just like with steak), transfer them onto a plate covered in paper towels and let them cool down slightly before eating as needed with any grilled meat dish or side salad.
Are you looking for some mouth-watering starters to complement your grilled side dishes? Our article on Grilled Appetizers – The Ultimate Guide to Mouthwatering Starters has got you covered. From shrimp skewers to grilled pizza, there’s something for everyone in this ultimate guide.
Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Grilled zucchini and squash are a great way to use up the last of your summer veggies. They’re delicious on their own, but I like to make them into little boats by hollowing out the middles and stuffing them with various things (like cheese or sausage), which can then be grilled for an extra-special treat.
Grilling is a great way to cook vegetables because it gives them a nice smoky flavor that really enhances their natural flavors. Any type of grill will do, but if you have access to one with BBQ settings that simulate low heat over long periods of time like charcoal grills do, then it’ll give you even better results!
You can also roast these in the oven at 400 degrees F/200 C for about 20 minutes until tender all throughout. To keep from overcooking any part of your vegetable dish (and thus losing freshness), cut each piece into small cubes before tossing it into hot oil for frying; this ensures even cooking throughout each piece so none remain raw while others are burnt beyond recognition
Grilled Zucchini and Squash Recipe Ideas
| Recipe Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Grilled Zucchini and Squash With Lemon Salt | A simple and tasty grilled zucchini and squash recipe with a delicious lemon salt seasoning that adds an extra zing to the dish. |
| Grilled Zucchini and Squash Salad | A light and refreshing grilled zucchini and squash salad recipe that features grilled vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing. |
| Grilled Zucchini and Squash Skewers | An easy and fun recipe for grilled zucchini and squash, along with other favorite vegetables, put on skewers and grilled to perfection. |
| Grilled Zucchini and Squash Ribbons | This creative recipe features zucchini and squash cut into long, thin ribbons, grilled, and served with a simple balsamic glaze. |
| Grilled Zucchini and Squash With Feta Cheese | A savory recipe for grilled zucchini and squash with a sprinkle of feta cheese on top. The dish also features onions and garlic for an extra kick of flavor. |
Grilled Brussel Sprouts with Pecan Gremolata
Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable that can be a bit polarizing. These mini cabbages contain high levels of vitamin C and folic acid, as well as dietary fiber. They’re also rich in phytonutrients compounds found in plants that protect our bodies from oxidative stress and may help prevent cancer, diabetes and other health problems.
However you choose to prepare them, Brussels sprouts are a great addition to your next grilled side dish! Grilling the sprouts gives them a wonderful smoky flavor while keeping their crispness intact.
The fresh pecan gremolata adds just enough kick without overpowering the tender veggies or losing its own flavor amid all those crispy leaves; it’s an easy way to add some extra punch without having to do much more than chop some parsley!
Sesame Green Beans with Grilled Shiitake Mushrooms
You’ll need:
- 4 cups green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 5 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root (1 inch piece)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Start by prepping the corn and shucking it. You can use fresh corn or frozen, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw it first.
Once you have your shucked corn, place in a grill basket so that it is held over direct heat without falling through the grates (be sure to line your grill with foil so there aren’t any accidents).
Grill until charred, about 4 minutes per side; set aside to cool slightly before cutting kernels off cob and tossing with lime juice and cilantro (optional). If desired, add hot sauce for extra kick!
When it comes to choosing the right side dishes for your BBQ party, it can be overwhelming. That’s why we put together a list of The Best Grilled Side Dishes to Elevate Your BBQ Game to make your task easier. Check out our article for some inspiration and recipe ideas.
Grilled Eggplant Dip
If you love eggplant, you’ll definitely want to try this grilled eggplant dip recipe. This dish is perfect for your next backyard barbecue because it’s easy to make and delicious. Plus, it’s healthy!
Eggplants are a great source of fiber and antioxidants. They’re a delicious addition to any meal or side dish, but they can also be used as an ingredient in their own right by making dips like this one. Grilling the eggplant before adding it will give the dip an amazing smoky flavor that will pair perfectly with any grilled meat or fish. The recipe calls for mozzarella cheese and chipotle peppers, but feel free to use whatever toppings you have on hand.
Grilled Eggplant Dip Recipe Ideas
| Recipe Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Baba Ghanoush | A classic Middle Eastern dip made with grilled eggplant, tahini, garlic, and olive oil. Serve with pita bread or crudités. |
| Smoky Eggplant Dip | A smoky and savory dip made with grilled eggplant, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of paprika. |
| Roasted Eggplant and Red Pepper Dip | A flavorful dip made with grilled eggplant and roasted red peppers, mixed with Greek yogurt and seasoned with garlic and herbs. |
| Spicy Eggplant Dip | A spicy and tangy dip made with grilled eggplant, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and cumin. Perfect for serving with crackers or pita chips. |
| Eggplant and White Bean Dip | A healthy and hearty dip made with grilled eggplant, white beans, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Perfect for snacking or as a spread for sandwiches. |
Peaches with Honey and Cinnamon Yogurt Sauce
A grilled peach is a classic summer side dish, but the addition of cinnamon and honey yogurt sauce adds a whole new dimension of flavor.
The ingredients are simple enough that you can put them together in less than 15 minutes, then spend your time tending to the grill instead of chopping onions or adding spices.
Peaches are high in fiber and antioxidants, thanks to their vitamin E content. Cinnamon is also packed with antioxidants it’s even believed to help control blood sugar levels!
Yogurt adds creaminess and tanginess while lemon juice gives it some extra zip (you may want to add more if you love lemon as much as we do).
Mint adds an herbal note that pairs well with peaches’ natural sweetness; this herb also makes its appearance in many Mediterranean dishes like tabbouleh salad or hummus spread on pita bread.
Potato Salad (A Classic!)
Potato salad is a classic side dish. It’s easy to make, you can use any kind of potato, and it’s great with grilled meats.
Potato salad is also a good way to use up leftover potatoes, or leftover mayonnaise if you’re like me and always have half a jar in your fridge just waiting for an occasion when it’ll be needed.
Using the right grilling tools is essential to create a perfect BBQ party. We have compiled a list of Top 17 Grilling Tools for a Perfect BBQ Every Time to ensure that you have everything you need in your arsenal. From tongs to spatulas, our article covers all the essential tools that any grill master should have
Charred Broccoli with Togarashi Chickpeas and Miso-Scallion Dressing
This side dish is an easy way to incorporate more cruciferous vegetables into your diet. Broccoli is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as an excellent source of fiber and other nutrients that help protect against cancer, heart disease, and digestive ailments. The miso-scallion dressing can be made in advance for easy assembly just before serving.
If you’re like me, you may find yourself trying out more recipes from this blog than actually making them (it’s hard not to get sucked in).
But this one is so simple and satisfying that I promise no one will mind if you practice your cutting skills with it instead.
Smoky Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes
You will need to use a potato masher, and then add milk or cream. Add a little sugar or maple syrup, salt and pepper, butter or olive oil.
Mix everything together until smooth.
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Grilled cauliflower steaks are a great way to make your favorite veggies taste like something special. They’re even more delicious with a spicy sauce, which you can make in just 10 minutes.
First, you’ll want to prepare the cauliflower by slicing off the leaves and cutting it in half. Then lay each half flat on your cutting board so that it resembles a steak you want the flatter side facing up since this is where you’ll be placing your grill marks.
Next, brush both sides of each piece with olive oil or melted butter (or use an all-natural spray if you prefer) before sprinkling them with coarse salt and freshly ground pepper on each side as well as any other spices that sound good to you!
These Cooked-On-The-Grill Side Dishes Are Perfect For Your Next Bbq!
These side dishes are easy to make, vegetarian or vegan and most of them can be made in advance. They are all gluten free and healthy too!
If you have a little more time, try the Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon-Caper Dressing. These skewers can be made in advance and reheated on the grill.
Or if you need something super quick that requires no prep beforehand, try these delicious Grilled Zucchini & Eggplant Fries with Sumac Yogurt Sauce – they only take 10 minutes from start to finish!
Don’t forget about dessert either; recipes like this Grilled Pineapple Sundae will blow everyone away.
Are you a BBQ pro or aspiring to become one? Then, our article on 10 Must-Have Grilling Tools for Any BBQ Pro is a must-read. It covers the basic and advanced tools that you need to take your BBQ game to the next level. Check it out to gear up with some must-have grilling tools
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed reading this article on grilled side dishes and will try some of them at your next barbecue! If you liked what we had to offer, please let us know by leaving a comment below. We’d love to hear from our readers.
Further Reading
If you enjoyed this article on grilled side dishes and need more inspiration, here are some other related articles worth checking out:
Insanely Good Recipes: BBQ Side Dishes: This article features 50 BBQ side dishes to inspire your next BBQ party. From salads to baked beans, this list covers all your bases.
Southern Living: Barbecue Side Dishes: This article provides some classic Southern-inspired BBQ side dishes like coleslaw, cornbread, and deviled eggs.
The Pioneer Woman: BBQ Sides: The Pioneer Woman shares 20 different BBQ side dishes, including quick and easy recipes that you can make with minimal effort.
FAQs
What are some popular grilled side dishes to serve at a BBQ party?
Some popular grilled side dishes to serve at a BBQ party are grilled corn on the cob, grilled vegetables, grilled potatoes, and grilled pineapple.
How can I make grilled vegetables taste better?
You can make grilled vegetables taste better by marinating them before grilling, adding some spices like garlic powder or paprika, and brushing them with a mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinegar before grilling.
Can I make grilled side dishes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make grilled side dishes ahead of time. Some sides like potato salads and coleslaws taste better if you let them sit in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
What are some vegetarian grilled side dishes?
Some vegetarian grilled side dishes are grilled corn on the cob, grilled mushrooms, grilled eggplants, and grilled zucchinis.
How do I keep my grilled side dishes warm during a BBQ party?
You can keep your grilled side dishes warm during a BBQ party by covering them with aluminum foil or a lid and placing them over a warm plate or in a slow cooker set to low.
Hi there! I’m Hellen James, and I’m a grilling enthusiast. I’ve been grilling for years, and I absolutely love it. I love how it brings people together and how you can feed your family with just a few minutes of work.