5 Easy Grilled Sides for Your Next BBQ

As summer sizzles, so does the thrill of igniting the grill for your backyard BBQ. While juicy burgers and tender steaks might take center stage, the right sides can elevate your meal to something extraordinary. Don t miss out on this summer favorite that s sure to impress at your next barbecue!

This guide unveils five mouthwatering grilled sides that will impress your guests and infuse your spread with vibrant flavors. From zesty corn on the cob to succulent grilled vegetables, you ll learn how to prepare your grill and enhance your BBQ menu with delicious, smoky accompaniments.

Prepare to elevate your outdoor dining experience to a whole new level with simple yet flavorful recipes that include sweet corn and refreshing cucumber salad!

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter is the quintessential summer delight, delivering a smoky, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the zesty kick of lime. It s the perfect side dish for any outdoor barbecue or picnic, capturing the fresh taste of summer.

To create this delicious dish, begin with fresh, shucked corn, ensuring each cob is rinsed and dried thoroughly. The magic lies in a simple blend of butter, lime juice, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt, forming a zesty coating that will elevate your corn to new heights.

As your grill warms up, brush the corn with this tantalizing mixture and either wrap it in foil or place it directly on the grates. For grilling perfection, cook each ear for about 10-15 minutes, rotating occasionally for an even char. If you wish to take the flavor up a notch, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or smoked paprika over the finished corn, enhancing both its taste and presentation.

Sweet, juicy kernels of corn are a summertime staple, effortlessly complementing grilled meats and salads alike.

2. Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Balsamic Glaze elevate fresh vegetables into a vibrant and delicious side dish, perfect for enhancing your barbecue spread. Get ready to wow your guests with these colorful skewers!

To achieve the best results, consider using vegetables like:

• bell peppers
• zucchini
• cherry tomatoes
• mushrooms
• red onions

for skewering. The prep is a breeze: simply wash them, cut into uniform pieces for even cooking, and give them a quick marinade in olive oil, salt, and pepper.

For the balsamic glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. This adds a tangy sweetness that elevates the entire dish. Grilling these skewers not only enhances the vegetables’ natural flavors but also introduces a smoky richness, making them a nutritious and vibrant addition to your balanced summer diet.

By incorporating seasonal produce in this way, you re not just tantalizing your taste buds; you re also promoting better health.

3. Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Honey Butter

Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Honey Butter are the epitome of a refined side dish, effortlessly elevating any barbecue. The natural sweetness of the potatoes marries beautifully with rich, creamy butter and a hint of honey, crafting a mouthwatering flavor profile that will undoubtedly delight your guests at summer gatherings.

To create this delicious dish, start by selecting firm, vibrant sweet potatoes, as their texture will be paramount. After washing and peeling, slice the potatoes into even, thick rounds to ensure they cook uniformly. A gentle toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper will enhance their flavors and help achieve that coveted char on the grill. Grill them over medium heat, keeping a watchful eye for that perfect caramelization.

These sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, and they can be beautifully complemented by a fresh salad or tangy coleslaw. With such irresistible appeal, they are bound to become a staple at your summer feasts.

4. Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze is a sensational dessert that perfectly marries the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a warm, aromatic cinnamon sugar topping. It s the ideal finale for a summer barbecue or picnic, providing a refreshing contrast to savory dishes.

To make this treat even better, begin by selecting a ripe pineapple that yields slightly to pressure and emits a sweet aroma at its base. Prepare this delectable delight by cutting the pineapple into thick rings, ensuring they hold their shape on the grill.

For the cinnamon sugar glaze, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and a hint of melted butter. This mixture creates a sticky coating. As the pineapple grills, brush on the glaze, allowing it to caramelize beautifully and enhance the fruit’s natural flavors.

Serve the grilled pineapple warm, whether on its own, drizzled with honey, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or creamy yogurt. This dessert will truly delight your taste buds!

5. Grilled Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing

Grilled Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing takes the classic dish to a whole new level by infusing smoky flavors into crisp romaine. This delightful combination is perfectly paired with a creamy, tangy dressing that brings a refreshing twist to your summer barbecue guaranteeing it will be a hit among your guests.

This vibrant salad showcases fresh ingredients, from crisp romaine hearts to zesty garlic and finely grated Parmesan, each element contributing to a great taste. To prepare the grilled romaine, simply slice the hearts in half, brush them with a touch of olive oil, and grill them over medium heat for just a couple of minutes until they achieve that perfect char without wilting.

For the dressing, mix anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and egg yolks in a bowl, then gradually whisk in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients not only enhances the taste but also elevates the dish to a healthier option, making it ideal for savoring outdoors during those warm summer months.

How to Prepare Your Grill for Grilling Sides?

Preparing your grill for side dishes is crucial for unlocking the best flavors and textures. It ensures that your vegetables, salads, and meats cook evenly, setting the stage for a successful summer barbecue that celebrates the freshness of seasonal ingredients.

Begin by giving the grill grates a thorough cleaning. Use a wire brush to scrape away any old debris, then wipe them down with a cloth soaked in oil to prevent sticking. Next, preheat the grill to your desired temperature; generally, aiming for a medium heat around 350 F-400 F is ideal for most vegetables.

To maintain that perfect temperature, keep an eye on the grill s built-in thermometer and adjust the vents to regulate airflow. Utilizing tools like grilling baskets or skewers will secure your vegetables, ensuring they cook evenly without the risk of falling through the grates.

A well-prepared grill not only enhances the flavor but also elevates your entire grilling experience.

What Are Some Other Grilled Side Options?

When planning your barbecue, think about incorporating a variety of grilled side options that elevate your meal. From savory vegetable skewers to refreshing salads, these additions will ensure a delightful and diverse dining experience for your guests during the summer months.

A vibrant corn salad adds a zesty brightness, infused with lime and cilantro, that pairs exquisitely with grilled chicken. Consider grilled coleslaw it offers a smoky twist on a classic favorite, delivering a satisfying crunch that balances the richness of barbecue ribs beautifully.

Don t overlook grilled zucchini; its tender, slightly charred exterior complements the heartiness of steak or sausages perfectly. Each side brings its own unique flavors, enhancing the overall experience and turning every bite into a harmonious celebration of summer’s bounty.

Get your grill ready and enjoy these amazing flavors this summer!

How Can You Incorporate Grilled Sides into Your BBQ Menu?

Incorporating grilled sides into your BBQ menu makes the meal better and adds delicious textures and flavors. For inspiration, try these simple grilling recipes for busy weeknights, ensuring your summer gatherings are both memorable and enjoyable for everyone.

To create a well-rounded feast, consider offering sides that blend both crunch and creaminess. Picture grilled corn on the cob generously slathered in butter mixed with herbs for extra flavor, paired with a refreshing cucumber and avocado salad. These sides make classic dishes pop, providing a delightful contrast that tantalizes the palate.

Using seasonal ingredients, like heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil, keeps your dishes vibrant and exciting. Support local farmers by using seasonal produce to infuse your BBQ menu with unique flavors that celebrate summer’s bounty, crafting a truly special dining experience.

What Are Some Tips for Grilling Vegetables?

Grilling vegetables can be a delightful culinary adventure. It transforms their natural sweetness and enhances their rich flavors. By embracing a few essential tips, you can impress your guests at summer barbecues with perfectly grilled veggies.

Start by selecting a vibrant array of seasonal vegetables think bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. These colors catch the eye and provide a wonderful mix of textures and tastes. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Feel free to play around with marinades or a dash of spices to elevate their flavor profile.

Timing and temperature are key. Softer vegetables, like tomatoes and mushrooms, grill faster than sturdier counterparts such as carrots or corn. Keep a watchful eye on the grill to prevent overcooking. High heat will give you that beautiful char while allowing the flavors to meld together splendidly.

How Can You Make Your Own Homemade Dressing for Grilled Salads?

Crafting your own homemade dressing for grilled salads allows you to customize flavors while ensuring freshness and quality. This enhances the overall appeal of your summer dishes and beautifully complements the vibrant ingredients in your salads.

Experiment with various ingredients to create a delightful array of dressings from rich and creamy options like buttermilk ranch and tangy avocado to light, zesty vinaigrettes featuring balsamic or lemon mustard. Each dressing can elevate the taste of grilled vegetables; picture charred zucchini drizzled with a fragrant herbed vinaigrette or marinated bell peppers accompanied by a luscious creamy dip.

For storage, keep these dressings in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where they maintain their exquisite flavor for about a week. When it comes time to serve, pair your creamy dressings with crisp greens like romaine or arugula, and complement vinaigrettes with heartier grains or roasted vegetables.

This approach creates an inviting and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress. Don t miss out on the chance to wow your guests this summer with these incredible grilled sides!

What Are Some Ways to Add Flavor to Grilled Fruits?

Add a burst of flavor to grilled fruits to elevate your summer dishes. Simple ingredients can transform into gourmet delights.

Brush fresh fruit with a honey glaze infused with lemon or lime zest for a bright finish. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar adds a warm, comforting flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.

Letting the fruit soak in flavors is key. Cook on medium heat to achieve stunning grill marks without charring.

Grilled fruits can serve as an exquisite side dish or a luscious dessert. Top them with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for easy grilled sides?

Try grilled corn on the cob, vegetable skewers, sweet potatoes, pineapple, and zucchini at your next BBQ, and don’t forget to check out the 5 essential grilling accessories to elevate your cooking experience!

How do I make grilled corn on the cob?

Start by removing the husks and silk from the corn. Brush with melted butter and grill on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, rotating occasionally.

What vegetables are great for grilling?

Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, asparagus, and eggplant are fantastic options. They hold up well on the grill and gain a nice smoky flavor.

Can I prepare grilled sides in advance?

Yes! Most grilled sides can be made ahead and reheated on the grill. Just wrap them in foil or use an airtight container before storing in the fridge.

How can I enhance the flavor of my grilled sides?

Brush your sides with marinade or sauce before grilling. You can also sprinkle them with herbs and spices or serve with a flavorful dipping sauce.

Can I grill dessert too?

Absolutely! Grilling fruits adds a sweet and smoky touch. Try grilling pineapple slices or peaches and serve them with ice cream for a delicious dessert.