25 Must-Try Summer Sides To Serve With Burgers, BBQ, And Beyond
The grill might get all the glory, but it’s the sides that really bring a summer cookout together. Whether you’re flipping burgers, smoking ribs, or throwing veggie kabobs on the fire, these side dishes will make your meal shine. From cool salads to crispy finger foods, here are 25 must-try summer sides that are just as exciting as whatever’s sizzling on the grill.
1. Classic Potato Salad
A cookout classic, the potato salad blends the heartiness of potatoes with the creaminess of mayonnaise. Chopped green onions add a touch of zest, while a hint of mustard tang and a sprinkle of paprika bring depth to the dish. Crunchy bits of celery and pickles add texture, creating a symphony of flavors.
The beauty of this side lies in its versatility; it pairs effortlessly with almost any barbecue dish. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, it’s the perfect companion for grilled meats. Its nostalgic flair makes it a perennial favorite at summer gatherings.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob
There’s something about the simple joy of grilled corn on the cob that captures the essence of summer. Charred to perfection, this treat can be customized with butter, chili powder, or even cheese for a gourmet touch.
Each bite offers a sweet, smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re enjoying it plain or with the works, grilled corn is as satisfying as it is delightful. This side stands out with its bright yellow kernels and enticing aroma, making it a must-have at any barbecue feast.
3. Watermelon Feta Salad
Refreshing and unique, watermelon feta salad is a perfect blend of savory and sweet. The juicy watermelon cubes offer a burst of freshness, complemented by the creamy, salty feta cheese.
Mint leaves add a fresh aroma that elevates each bite, while a drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavors without overshadowing them. This salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, with its vibrant colors. It’s an ideal side to cool off on a hot summer day, balancing the richness of grilled mains.
4. Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Pasta salad with Italian dressing is a medley of flavors and textures, perfect for any summer gathering. The chewy rotini pasta serves as the canvas for cherry tomatoes, black olives, and mozzarella cubes.
The zesty Italian dressing ties everything together with a hint of vinegar and herbs, creating a refreshing dish that’s both filling and light. Its vibrant ingredients make it visually appealing, and its versatile nature allows it to accompany a wide range of barbecue dishes. This side is a celebration of Italian flair and summer’s bounty.
5. Coleslaw (Creamy or Vinegar-Based)
Whether creamy or vinegar-based, coleslaw is a staple at any barbecue. Made with shredded cabbage and carrots, it’s both crunchy and refreshing.
Creamy versions are rich with mayonnaise, while vinegar-based slaws offer a tangy alternative. Both styles provide a delightful contrast to grilled meats, making them perfect partners for pulled pork or burgers. Coleslaw’s simplicity and cooling effect make it a beloved choice for summer events, offering a palate-cleansing experience between bites of smoky barbecue.
6. Baked Beans with Bacon
Baked beans with bacon is a side that speaks to the heart of comfort food. The sweetness of the beans, combined with the savory, smoky bacon, creates a rich and hearty dish.
Slow-cooked to perfection, each spoonful delivers a depth of flavor that resonates with barbecue enthusiasts. It’s a dish that can stand on its own or complement the richness of grilled entrees. A staple at many gatherings, baked beans with bacon is a warm, inviting side that brings a sense of home to any outdoor meal.
7. Caprese Salad
Elegant simplicity defines the Caprese salad, a celebration of fresh ingredients. Thick slices of juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella are layered with vibrant basil leaves.
Drizzled with balsamic reduction, this Italian classic offers a delightful balance of flavors. Each bite is refreshing yet satisfying, making it an ideal side for summer gatherings. Its visually appealing presentation and burst of taste add sophistication to any barbecue setting, enhancing the overall dining experience.
8. Macaroni Salad
Retro and comforting, macaroni salad is a nostalgic favorite at summer gatherings. Elbow pasta provides the base for this creamy concoction, brought to life with diced bell peppers and celery.
The smooth, tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor, while a sprinkle of paprika offers a hint of spice. This salad’s charm lies in its simplicity and ability to pair well with various dishes. Its familiar taste evokes memories of family picnics, making it a cherished addition to any summer spread.
9. Grilled Veggie Skewers
Grilled veggie skewers offer a healthy, flavorful addition to any summer cookout. Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms are threaded onto skewers, creating a vibrant, nutritious side.
Each vegetable brings its own unique taste and texture, offering a delightful contrast to grilled meats. These skewers are not only appealing to the eye but also a testament to the versatility of grilling. Perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, they embody the freshness of summer produce.
10. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a timeless classic that never fails to please. The creamy yolk filling, seasoned with mustard and spices, offers a tantalizing blend of flavors.
Garnished with paprika and chives, these bite-sized delights are as visually appealing as they are tasty. Their portability and ease of preparation make them a favorite for picnics and barbecues. With their rich taste and elegant appearance, deviled eggs bring a touch of sophistication to any summer gathering.
11. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a flavor explosion that elevates the humble cob to gourmet status. Grilled to perfection, it’s slathered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder.
Each bite delivers a delightful mix of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors that dance on the palate. Whether enjoyed as a side or a standalone snack, elote is a crowd-pleaser that embodies the vibrant spirit of Mexican street food. Its unique taste and festive presentation make it an unforgettable addition to any summer menu.
12. Cornbread Muffins
Cornbread muffins are slightly sweet and irresistibly buttery, making them a perfect companion for barbecue dishes. Their golden color and soft, crumbly texture invite you to take a bite.
These muffins pair wonderfully with baked beans and BBQ sauce, offering a delightful contrast of flavors. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they add a touch of Southern charm to any summer gathering. Serve them warm for the best experience, and watch them disappear from the table.
13. Roasted Garlic Potato Wedges
Roasted garlic potato wedges are the ultimate comfort food, crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The aromatic roasted garlic infuses each wedge with a savory depth of flavor.
Sprinkled with parsley, these wedges are not only tasty but visually enticing. Perfect for dipping, they complement a range of grilled meats, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Their simplicity and robust taste make them a favorite side for casual barbecues and gourmet cookouts alike.
14. Black Bean and Corn Salad
Black bean and corn salad is a zesty, filling dish that’s perfect for summer. Combining black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, it offers a colorful and nutritious side.
The addition of red onion and cilantro adds layers of flavor, while a squeeze of lime elevates the overall taste. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a lighter option that still packs a punch.
15. Cucumber Onion Salad
Cucumber onion salad is a tangy and refreshing side that’s perfect for hot summer days. Thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions are marinated in a vinegar-based dressing.
Dill adds a touch of aromatic freshness, making each bite a crisp delight. This salad’s simplicity and cooling effect make it an excellent companion for rich, smoky barbecue dishes. It’s a palate cleanser that refreshes the senses between savory bites, celebrating the crisp textures of summer vegetables.
16. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries bring a sweet-and-savory twist to any summer plate. Baked or fried, they offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor.
Seasoned with salt and pepper, these fries pair wonderfully with grilled meats, adding both texture and taste. Their vibrant color and distinctive taste make them a standout side, whether enjoyed as a snack or a complement to the main course. Sweet potato fries are a delicious way to elevate any barbecue experience.
17. Broccoli Bacon Salad
Broccoli bacon salad is a delightful combination of crunch and creaminess, sure to please any crowd. Crisp broccoli florets are paired with savory bacon pieces and sweet raisins.
Sunflower seeds add an extra layer of texture, while a creamy dressing ties it all together. This salad offers a balance of flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying, making it an ideal side for summer gatherings. It’s a unique blend of ingredients that brings something special to the table.
18. Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic that brings a touch of nostalgia to any summer meal. The tangy green tomatoes are coated in cornmeal and fried to golden perfection.
Their crispy exterior and tender inside offer a delightful contrast of textures, making them a sought-after side. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, they provide a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and exhilarating. This dish is a tribute to Southern culinary traditions and a must-try for any barbecue gathering.
19. Garlic Herb Butter Mushrooms
Rich and savory, garlic herb butter mushrooms are a hearty addition to any summer feast. Sautéed to perfection, the mushrooms are infused with the robust flavors of garlic and herbs.
Garnished with parsley, they offer a burst of aromatic delight with every bite. These mushrooms are a versatile side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, adding depth and richness. Their earthy, complex flavors make them a standout choice for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
20. Quinoa Tabbouleh
Quinoa tabbouleh is a lighter take on the classic dish, offering a refreshing blend of flavors. The fluffy quinoa serves as the base, mixed with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, and cucumber.
A squeeze of lemon juice ties everything together, creating a vibrant, tangy salad. Its crisp texture and bright taste make it an ideal side for summer barbecues, complementing the richness of grilled dishes. Quinoa tabbouleh is a nutritious, satisfying option for those seeking a healthier side.
21. Fruit Salad with Citrus Mint Dressing
Fruit salad with citrus mint dressing is not your average bowl of fruit. The combination of strawberries, blueberries, and melon balls creates a colorful medley.
The citrus mint dressing adds a refreshing zing that elevates the natural sweetness of the fruit. This side is a perfect palate cleanser, offering a sweet, juicy escape from richer barbecue dishes. Its bright colors and invigorating taste make it a delightful addition to any summer gathering.
22. Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Dip
Jalapeño cheddar corn dip is a creamy, cheesy delight with a hint of spice. The smooth texture of the dip is complemented by sweet corn kernels and fiery jalapeños.
This side offers a bold flavor profile that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. Paired with tortilla chips, it’s a crowd-pleaser that adds excitement to any barbecue spread. Its rich taste and playful kick make it a memorable dish that guests will be eager to try.
23. Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini fritters are a delicious way to celebrate summer’s bounty. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they offer a delightful texture.
Served with a dollop of sour cream, these fritters are both satisfying and refreshing. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor, making each bite a joy to savor. They are a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of dishes, offering a unique twist on traditional summer sides.
24. Pickled Veggie Platter
A pickled veggie platter is a vibrant and tangy addition to any summer menu. Featuring an assortment of cucumbers, carrots, and radishes, each pickled to perfection.
The tangy flavor and crunchy texture offer a refreshing contrast to smoky grilled mains. Garnished with dill sprigs, this platter is a feast for the eyes and the palate. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to add a bit of zing to their barbecue spread.
25. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Asparagus
Garlic parmesan grilled asparagus is a taste of summer on a plate. Tender asparagus spears are grilled to perfection, then topped with savory garlic and parmesan.
The result is a side that’s both elegant and full of flavor. Lemon wedges add a hint of brightness that complements the richness of the dish. This asparagus is an ideal companion for grilled meats, offering a nutritious and delicious option for summer feasts.