Summer cookouts are all about vibrant flavors and delicious company! Elevate your next gathering with these easy and incredibly tasty side dishes that are perfect for grilling season.
From fresh and zesty salads to comforting classics with a twist, these recipes are designed to impress your guests without keeping you stuck in the kitchen..
Table of Contents
Dill Pickle Chopped Salad
Satisfy your pickle craving with this vibrant and zesty dill pickle chopped salad.
Packed with fresh greens, crunchy radishes, and a bright dill pickle dressing, it’s a refreshing and flavorful side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or burgers.
It’s easy to customize and can even be made ahead for stress-free entertaining..
Pro Tip: For a spicy kick, add a dash of Tabasco or some pickled jalapeños to the dressing.
Get the Recipe: Dill Pickle Chopped Salad
Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Pickled Onions
This delightful salad beautifully balances the sweetness of strawberries with the crispness of cucumbers, all brightened by quick-pickled onions.
It's a light, vegan, and gluten-free option that makes the most of seasonal produce, offering a refreshing counterpoint to rich BBQ flavors..
Pro Tip: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or basil to add another layer of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Pickled Onions
Quick & Easy Avocado Salad
Bursting with color and goodness, this avocado salad is a summertime dream.
It’s a fuss-free blend of crisp veggies like corn, tomatoes, and cucumbers, all tossed with creamy avocado.
Perfect as a light meal or a vibrant side, it’s incredibly refreshing and can be prepped ahead..
Pro Tip: To prevent browning when making ahead, prepare the salad with all ingredients except the avocado, and add it just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Quick & Easy Avocado Salad
Tropical Mango Coleslaw
Give your cookout a taste of the tropics with this light and refreshing mango coleslaw.
It skips the heavy mayo for a vibrant mix of fresh fruit and veggies, offering a delightful sweet and tangy crunch that complements grilled dishes beautifully.
It’s vegan and can be made AIP compliant..
Pro Tip: Add some toasted coconut flakes for an extra layer of tropical texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tropical Mango Coleslaw
5-Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This Mediterranean chickpea salad is the ultimate quick and healthy side.
Packed with protein from chickpeas, refreshing cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
It's ready in minutes, making it perfect for busy summer days..
Pro Tip: For even deeper flavor, let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Get the Recipe: 5-Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Lemon Dill Rice
Brighten up your plate with this aromatic lemon dill rice.
It’s a simple yet flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with almost any summer main course, adding a light, herbaceous, and citrusy touch that feels both fresh and comforting..
Pro Tip: Garnish with extra fresh dill and a lemon wedge for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Rice
Mediterranean Bruschetta with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful Mediterranean bruschetta.
Toasted sourdough is topped with creamy hummus, sweet caramelized onions, and roasted bell peppers, creating a delightful mix of textures and tastes that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious..
Pro Tip: A drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving adds a touch of sweetness and visual flair.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Bruschetta with Caramelized Onions
Smoked Sweet Potatoes with Hot Honey Butter
These smoked sweet potatoes are a showstopper side dish, infused with a gentle smokiness and topped with a decadent hot honey butter.
The natural sweetness of the potatoes is enhanced by the smoky char and the sweet-spicy butter, making them an irresistible accompaniment to any BBQ..
Pro Tip: Press the cooked potatoes slightly from the ends to open them up, creating a perfect pocket for the hot honey butter.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes with Hot Honey Butter
Best Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
Whip up a batch of these incredibly flaky and tender buttermilk biscuits.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re the perfect vehicle for butter, jam, or soaking up savory gravies.
These biscuits are a comforting classic that will disappear fast from your cookout table..
Pro Tip: Don't twist the biscuit cutter; press straight down to ensure the layers rise beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Best Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
Classic House Salad
A simple yet satisfying classic house salad is the perfect accompaniment to any summer meal.
With a crisp mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and crunchy croutons, all tossed in a homemade sweet and tangy vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing counterpoint to grilled fare..
Pro Tip: Keep the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, adding the dressing just before serving to prevent wilting.
Get the Recipe: Classic House Salad
Roasted Chili Corn Salsa
This vibrant salsa brings a delicious smoky and sweet flavor to your cookout.
Featuring charred corn, roasted poblano peppers, and a zesty lime dressing, it’s a copycat of a favorite restaurant side that’s perfect with chips or as a topping for tacos and bowls..
Pro Tip: Make this salsa a day ahead for an even better flavor as the ingredients meld together.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chili Corn Salsa
Classic Ambrosia Salad
A nostalgic favorite, this ambrosia salad is a delightful mix of fluffy marshmallows, sweet canned fruits, creamy topping, and coconut.
It’s a light, sweet, and playful side dish that brings a touch of retro charm to any summer potluck or BBQ..
Pro Tip: For the best texture, chill the salad for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
Get the Recipe: Classic Ambrosia Salad
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Take your mac and cheese to the next level with this smoky, creamy, and utterly comforting version made on a Traeger grill.
The combination of melty cheeses and a subtle smoky infusion makes this a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that perfectly complements any grilled main dish..
Pro Tip: Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, creamiest texture, as pre-shredded cheese can sometimes result in a less cohesive sauce.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac and Cheese
Pickled Watermelon Rind
Don't toss that rind! This recipe transforms watermelon rinds into crisp, tangy pickles with a delightful sweet and sour flavor.
It's a zero-waste champion and a unique, refreshing side that adds a surprising burst of flavor to your plate..
Pro Tip: Chill the pickles for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to deepen and develop.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Watermelon Rind
Blackened Corn
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this blackened corn! Charred to perfection on the stovetop, this corn boasts smoky, slightly spicy notes and a delightful sweetness.
It’s a versatile side that adds a fantastic punch of flavor to salads, tacos, or served simply on its own..
Pro Tip: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens up the smoky flavors beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Corn
Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad
This Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of tender orzo pasta, juicy grape tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fragrant fresh basil, all tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette.
It’s a light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful side that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch.
Its vibrant colors and classic Italian flavors make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser..
Pro Tip: For an even richer flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate; the orzo will absorb more of the delicious dressing.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Orzo Pasta Salad
Quick Pickled Red Onions
Add a bright pop of color and a zesty crunch to any dish with these quick pickled red onions.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, they transform from vibrant purple to a beautiful red as they marinate.
These tangy onions are incredibly versatile, perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, tacos, or burgers, adding a fantastic flavor and texture contrast..
Pro Tip: Experiment with different vinegars like red wine vinegar for a deeper flavor or even lime juice for a Mexican-inspired twist.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Red Onions
Sweet n' Spicy Baked Beans
Elevate your barbecue with these irresistible sweet and spicy baked beans.
With only 15 minutes of prep, this side dish balances a delightful sweetness with a hint of heat, making it a perfect complement to smoky grilled meats.
They’re a comforting and flavorful classic that’s sure to be a hit at any summer gathering..
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, stir in some cooked bacon bits or a dash of your favorite hot sauce before baking.
Get the Recipe: Sweet n' Spicy Baked Beans
Carrot Ribbon Salad with Arugula
This vibrant carrot ribbon salad offers a refreshing mix of sweet carrots, peppery arugula, and a bright, zesty orange ginger dressing.
The delicate ribbons of carrot add a beautiful visual appeal and a delightful texture that’s both light and satisfying.
It’s a fantastic way to add a fresh, healthy element to your cookout spread..
Pro Tip: Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in a jar in the refrigerator; just give it a good shake before dressing the salad.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Ribbon Salad with Arugula
Deep-Fried Sweet Potato Fries
Indulge in homemade deep-fried sweet potato fries that are crispy on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside.
Seasoned simply with salt and paprika, these fries offer a satisfying sweet and savory bite that’s miles better than store-bought.
They're a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side that brings a touch of gourmet comfort to any meal..
Pro Tip: Reheat any leftovers in the oven at 400°F for maximum crispiness, rather than using a microwave.
Get the Recipe: Deep-Fried Sweet Potato Fries
Easy Mexican Rice
Whip up a batch of this incredibly easy and flavorful Mexican rice, a staple that perfectly complements any Tex-Mex spread.
Made with just a few pantry ingredients and ready in about 25 minutes, this rice is fluffy, tender, and infused with the savory goodness of salsa and broth.
It’s a simple yet essential side that’s always a winner..
Pro Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, serve with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice
Deviled Egg Potato Salad
This unique potato salad combines the creamy comfort of classic potato salad with the irresistible flavor of deviled eggs.
Packed with fluffy potatoes, tender eggs, and a tangy, creamy dressing, it’s a rich and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for potlucks and barbecues.
It’s best made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully..
Pro Tip: Potato salad does not freeze well, so it's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Vinaigrette
Capture the essence of summer with this classic Strawberry Spinach Salad, featuring sweet strawberries and crisp spinach topped with a vibrant strawberry vinaigrette.
It’s a naturally gluten-free and easily dairy-free option that’s bursting with fresh, fruity flavors.
This salad is perfect for a light dinner or as a refreshing side at any warm-weather gathering..
Pro Tip: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad a complete and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Spinach Salad with Vinaigrette
Crack Green Beans
Get ready for an addictive side dish with these Crack Green Beans! Made with simple ingredients like canned green beans, crispy bacon, and a sweet brown sugar glaze, they offer an irresistible balance of savory, smoky, and sweet flavors.
This easy-to-make dish is sure to be a standout at any cookout or holiday meal..
Pro Tip: These beans reheat wonderfully, making them a great option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Crack Green Beans
Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Add a sophisticated and flavorful twist to your meal with these rich blue cheese mashed potatoes.
Made with creamy Yukon Gold potatoes and infused with the bold, tangy flavor of blue cheese, they’re a comforting side that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether made in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop, they're a treat for blue cheese aficionados..
Pro Tip: If blue cheese isn't your favorite, try these with goat cheese or Boursin cheese for a different cheesy flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Sausage Squash Casserole
This easy Sausage Squash Casserole is a comforting and flavorful vegetable side dish that’s perfect for gatherings.
The savory sausage adds a unique depth that sets it apart, making it a standout dish that’s both hearty and delicious.
Whether you use yellow squash, zucchini, or a mix, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser..
Pro Tip: For a keto-friendly option, omit the breadcrumbs and add shredded Colby and Monterey Jack cheese, replacing milk with whipping cream.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Squash Casserole
Mexican Quinoa Salad
This vibrant Mexican quinoa salad is a fiesta in a bowl, packed with fluffy quinoa, colorful bell peppers, zesty red onion, and hearty black beans, all brought together with a fresh cilantro-lime dressing.
It’s a healthy, flavorful, and textural delight that’s perfect served cold, making it an ideal make-ahead side dish for any summer event..
Pro Tip: This salad tastes even better a day or two after it's made, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Quinoa Salad
Crispy Homemade French Fries
Master the art of the perfect French fry with this recipe that guarantees a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
Fried in a cast iron skillet and seasoned to perfection, these fries are a delightful step up from the usual.
Tips straight from an Idaho potato farmer ensure you get that irresistible golden-brown crunch every time..
Pro Tip: For ultimate crispiness, try the double-fry method: first at a lower temperature to cook through, then at a higher temperature to crisp up.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade French Fries
Caprese Panzanella Salad
This Tuscan-inspired Caprese Panzanella salad is a summer dream, featuring toasted bread cubes soaked in delicious tomato juices alongside fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil.
It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors – crisp bread, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella – that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Perfect for barbecues and light lunches..
Pro Tip: Salting the tomatoes and letting them sit first enhances their flavor and creates a natural dressing base for the salad.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panzanella Salad
Spiced Watermelon and Charred Corn Salad
Experience a burst of summer freshness with this watermelon and charred corn salad.
Juicy watermelon meets smoky charred corn, fresh herbs, and a spicy lime dressing for a vibrant and flavorful vegan side dish.
It's incredibly easy to make and delivers a unique combination of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that are perfect for a hot day..
Pro Tip: If you don't have fresh corn, thawed frozen corn kernels can be used; char them briefly in a hot skillet.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Watermelon and Charred Corn Salad
Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is a summer dream come true! Made with just five ingredients, it’s incredibly quick to assemble and bursts with the fresh, herbaceous flavor of pesto.
It’s perfect as a light main course or a standout side that’s always a crowd-pleaser..
Pro Tip: This pasta salad keeps beautifully in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for busy summer days.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
Crispy Greek-Seasoned Potato Wedges
Forget the fry-o-lator! These oven-baked potato wedges are unbelievably crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, all thanks to a zesty Greek seasoning blend.
They’re a healthier, yet equally delicious, alternative to french fries that pair perfectly with just about any grilled main dish..
Pro Tip: Ensure your potato wedges are in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow them to roast and crisp up properly, rather than steam.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Greek-Seasoned Potato Wedges
Rosemary Garlic Grilled Potatoes in Foil
Capture the essence of summer with these simple yet spectacular grilled potatoes.
Cooked to tender perfection in foil packets with aromatic rosemary and garlic, they’re infused with smoky flavor and are a breeze to prepare right on your grill or over a campfire.
They’re the ultimate low-effort, high-reward side dish..
Pro Tip: Sandwiching your food between parchment paper inside the foil packet prevents sticking and keeps your aluminum foil clean for easier reuse or recycling.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Garlic Grilled Potatoes in Foil
Smoky & Spicy Corn Ribs (Corn Riblets)
Get ready for a fun and flavorful twist on corn on the cob! These 'corn ribs' are cut into unique rib-like shapes, coated in a smoky, slightly spicy seasoning blend, and roasted until tender and delicious.
They’re a playful, kid-friendly, and utterly addictive side dish that’s perfect for any summer cookout..
Pro Tip: Reheat any leftover corn ribs in the air fryer to bring back that delightful crispy texture.
Get the Recipe: Smoky & Spicy Corn Ribs (Corn Riblets)
TexMex Cucumber Corn Salad
This refreshing salad is a vibrant and zesty addition to any meal.
It brilliantly combines crisp mini cucumbers and sweet corn with a hint of spice from jalapeños and red onion, all brought together with a creamy, citrusy lime dressing.
It’s the perfect cooling counterpoint to grilled meats and is delightful served with tacos or tortilla chips..
Pro Tip: Mini cucumbers are ideal for this salad due to their fewer seeds and thinner skin, making prep a breeze.
Get the Recipe: TexMex Cucumber Corn Salad