8 Best BBQ Sides For Your Next Cookout: Are you gearing up for a fantastic cookout? While the main dishes—usually those sizzling meats—are often the stars of any BBQ, the sides play an equally vital role in rounding out your feast. Let’s dive into the eight best BBQ sides that will not only complement your grilled masterpieces but also keep your guests coming back for more. Ready to explore?
Classic Coleslaw: A Crunchy Delight
Why It’s a Must-Have
Coleslaw is the quintessential BBQ side dish for several reasons. Its creamy texture and crunchy bite offer a perfect counterbalance to your savory, smoky meats. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up!
Ingredients
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Mayonnaise
- Vinegar
- Sugar
- Salt and pepper
Quick Recipe Tip
Mix shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Chill it for an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
Smoky Baked Beans
The Flavor Kicker
Baked beans are a hearty side that brings its own smokiness to the table, enhancing the overall BBQ vibe.
How to Make It Special
To elevate your baked beans, consider adding chunks of bacon or a dash of bourbon. This will introduce a complex flavor profile that’s both rich and satisfying.
Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Irresistibly Buttery
Corn on the cob slathered in garlic butter is a simple side that’s always a hit. The sweet, crisp kernels popping with each bite make it impossible to resist.
Making It Perfect
Brush your corn with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, parsley, and salt. Grill them until slightly charred. This method adds a depth of flavor that boiled corn just can’t match.
Creamy Potato Salad
A Versatile Classic
No BBQ is complete without a creamy potato salad. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with just about anything from ribs to burgers.
Tips for the Best Potato Salad
Use a mix of mayonnaise and mustard in your dressing and add extras like chopped pickles or eggs for added texture and flavor.
Fresh Tomato Cucumber Salad
Light and Refreshing
Looking for something lighter? A tomato cucumber salad is your go-to. It’s refreshing, hydrating, and incredibly simple to prepare.
Dressing It Up
Combine fresh tomatoes and cucumbers with onions, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and herbs. This salad is a vibrant addition that can lighten up your meal.
Cheesy Grilled Asparagus
A Sophisticated Touch
Introduce a sophisticated side with grilled asparagus. The charred tips and cheesy topping are sure to impress.
Grilling to Perfection
Toss asparagus in olive oil and grill until tender. Sprinkle grated Parmesan in the last few minutes of grilling for a melty, cheesy finish.
Savory Herb Grilled Potatoes
Comforting and Hearty
Grilled potatoes are a comforting choice that’s both filling and flavorful.
Flavor Pack
Slice potatoes, toss them with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and wrap them in foil. Grill until these packets reveal tender, herb-infused delights.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Sweet Meets Savory
End your sides on a refreshing note with a watermelon feta salad. The sweet watermelon paired with salty feta cheese creates a perfect palate cleanser.
Simple Yet Elegant
Cube watermelon and toss it with crumbled feta, fresh mint, olive oil, and a sprinkle of black pepper. It’s as simple as it is delicious.
Conclusion
From the creamy textures of classic potato salad and coleslaw to the smoky flavors of grilled asparagus and corn, each of these sides offers something unique at your BBQ. They not only complement the main attractions but also ensure there’s something on the table for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to make your next cookout unforgettable with these stellar side dishes!