BBQ Grilled Side Dishes: Easy and Tasty Grilled Companions
The sun is shining, the grill is out, and it’s time to talk about the unsung heroes of every BBQ: the side dishes. These dishes can take your grilled feast from good to unforgettable. We’re here to guide you through some of the best, most mouth-watering sides that are easy to prepare but will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether planning a small family gathering or a large backyard bash, the right BBQ grilled side dishes are key. They complement the main attractions, add variety, and cater to different tastes.
There’s something for everyone, from the crisp, cool tang of a freshly tossed salad to the comforting warmth of buttery, grilled potatoes. And the best part? These recipes are straightforward and use everyday ingredients, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen.
So, let’s dive into the world of BBQ side dishes. We’ll explore classics everyone loves and introduce some new favorites that might become your go-to recipes. With these sides on your table, your BBQ will surely be the town’s talk. So fire up that grill, and let’s get cooking!
What are BBQ Grilled Side Dishes?
BBQ grilled side dishes are an integral part of the BBQ experience, adding flavors and textures that complement the main meats. These dishes typically include a variety of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn, which gain a smoky flavor from the grill.
Grilled potatoes, either as crispy wedges or in a creamy potato salad, are also popular. Fruits such as pineapple, peaches, and watermelon can be grilled for a sweet and smoky contrast. These sides bring balance, lightness, and color to the rich and hearty flavors of BBQ, making the meal more enjoyable and complete.
Classic BBQ Sides
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Why It’s Great: Grilled corn on the cob is a BBQ classic. It’s sweet when you bite in, with a smoky flavor from the grill. The butter and salt make the corn’s natural flavors a simple yet delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
- Fresh ears of corn
- Butter
- Salt
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prep the Grill: Get your grill hot and ready.
- Clean the Corn: Strip off the husks and silk from each ear of corn.
- Grill: Place the corn directly on the grill. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until you see some charred spots.
- Butter Up: After grilling the corn, remove it from the heat. While it’s still warm, spread a generous amount of butter over each ear.
- Season: Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the buttered corn.
Baked Beans
Why It’s Great: Baked beans are hearty with almost any BBQ dish. They’re a little sweet, a little tangy, and satisfying. Plus, they’re super easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
- Canned beans (like navy or pinto beans)
- BBQ sauce
- Onion
- Brown sugar (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Preheat Oven: Turn your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm it.
- Mix Ingredients: In a baking dish, pour in the canned beans. Add a good amount of BBQ sauce for flavor. If you like it sweet, sprinkle some brown sugar on it. Chop an onion into small pieces and mix it in.
- Bake: Put the dish in the oven. Let it bake for about 30 minutes. The beans should be hot, and the sauce thickened a bit.
Vegetable Medleys
Grilled Veggie Skewers
Why It’s Great: Grilled veggie skewers are a fresh and colorful side dish. They’re easy to make and fun to eat, and they add a healthy touch to your BBQ.
Ingredients:
- A variety of vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, onions)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Chop Veggies: Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Skewer Them: Thread the veggies onto skewers. Mix colors and types for variety.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the skewered veggies. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Grill: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until they have nice grill marks.
- Serve: Take the skewers off the grill, and they’ll be ready to eat.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Why It’s Great: Stuffed bell peppers are a hearty and versatile side dish. They’re packed with flavor and can be customized with different fillings. They look impressive and are sure to be a hit at any BBQ.
Ingredients:
- Bell peppers (any color)
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Shredded cheese
- Your choice of spices (like cumin, paprika)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prep Peppers: Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.
- Stuff: Fill each pepper with cooked rice or quinoa. Add your favorite spices. Top with cheese.
- Grill: Put the stuffed peppers on the grill. Close the lid and grill for about 30 minutes until the peppers are soft, and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Carefully remove the peppers from the grill. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Potatoes Reinvented
Garlic Herb Grilled Potatoes
Why It’s Great: These grilled potatoes are crispy outside and soft inside. The garlic and herbs add a flavorful touch to any BBQ dish.
Ingredients:
- Medium potatoes
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Wash Potatoes: Clean the potatoes under running water.
- Slice: Cut them into half-inch slices.
- Season: In a bowl, toss the slices with olive oil, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Grill: Place them on the grill over medium heat. Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Enjoy: Serve hot off the grill.
Sweet Potato Wedges
Why It’s Great: Sweet potato wedges are a healthier alternative to regular fries. Their natural sweetness is enhanced by the smoky grill flavor.
Ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prep Sweet Potatoes: Peel them and cut them into thick wedges.
- Oil and Season: Toss the wedges in olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Grill: Place the steaks on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they are nice and charred and cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy these sweet and smoky treats right from the grill.
Salads and Slaws
Crispy Coleslaw
Why It’s Great: Coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy side to your BBQ. It’s cool and refreshing, perfect for balancing out the heat of grilled foods.
Ingredients:
- Green cabbage
- Carrots
- Mayonnaise
- White vinegar
- Sugar
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Chop Veggies: Thinly slice the cabbage and grate the carrots.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Toss the veggies with the dressing until well coated.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
Quinoa Salad
Why It’s Great: Quinoa salad is a light and healthy option. It’s packed with fresh flavors and makes a great complement to heavier BBQ dishes.
Ingredients:
- Quinoa
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Feta cheese
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water and cook according to package instructions.
- Chop Veggies: Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber.
- Mix Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, veggies, crumbled feta, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Serve: This can be served immediately or chilled.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect BBQ Side Dishes
- Prep Early: Chop and prepare your veggies and sides before you start grilling. This way, everything is ready to go when the grill is hot.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with spices and seasonings. They help to bring out the flavors, especially when grilling.
- Use Foil Packs: For easy cooking and cleanup, use foil packs to grill smaller items like diced potatoes or veggies.
- Keep It Moist: When grilling corn or other veggies, a little butter or oil can prevent drying out and add flavor.
- Skewer Smart: To prevent burning, use wooden skewers for veggie or meat kebabs soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Dress to Impress: Add dressings or sauces to salads before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your grill is at the right temperature for your cooking. High heat is for searing, and lower heat is for slow-cooking items.
- Safety First: Always use tongs or gloves to handle hot food and keep a fire extinguisher nearby for safety.
Final Analysis
With these tips, you can impress at your next BBQ grilled side dishes. Remember, the best dishes come from experimenting with flavors and techniques, so don’t be afraid to try something new. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process, as your love for cooking will surely be tasted in every bite. Happy grilling, and may your sides be as sizzling as your main course!
