Fire up the grill because we've gathered the most delicious side dishes perfect for your next BBQ cookout! From vibrant pasta salads to creamy, classic favorites, these recipes are designed to impress your guests and complement any grilled main course.
Get ready to elevate your outdoor dining experience with these crowd-pleasing options that are as easy to make as they are to devour..
Table of Contents
Mediterranean Orzo Pesto Salad
This vibrant orzo salad is a flavor explosion, combining plump cherry tomatoes, briny olives, creamy feta, and a zesty pesto dressing.
It's incredibly easy to whip up and always a hit at potlucks, offering a fresh, savory counterpoint to grilled meats.
The orzo pasta provides a satisfying bite, making it a hearty yet refreshing side..
Pro Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, add some chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Pesto Salad
Deviled Egg Potato Salad
This unique twist on a classic brings together the beloved flavors of potato salad and deviled eggs for a creamy, tangy delight.
Tender potatoes are coated in a rich dressing, studded with plenty of hard-boiled eggs.
It’s a comforting, familiar flavor profile that’s perfect for feeding a crowd and tastes even better made ahead..
Pro Tip: To enhance the flavors, make this salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Mexican Orzo Pasta Salad
Bring a fiesta to your plate with this colorful Mexican-inspired orzo salad! It's packed with fresh corn, avocado, juicy tomatoes, and cilantro, all tossed in a light, zesty lime vinaigrette with a hint of chili powder.
This salad is incredibly refreshing, easy to eat, and offers a delightful balance of creamy, crunchy, and bright flavors..
Pro Tip: Soak the sliced red onion in cold water for a few minutes to mellow its sharp flavor before adding it to the salad.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Orzo Pasta Salad
Lightened-Up Greek Yogurt Potato Salad
Enjoy a creamy potato salad with a bright, tangy twist! This version uses Greek yogurt as its base, offering a lighter alternative to traditional mayo-heavy salads.
Packed with fresh dill and zesty Dijon mustard, it’s a refreshing and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for warmer weather gatherings..
Pro Tip: For the best texture, use red potatoes as they hold their shape well and don't become mushy.
Get the Recipe: Lightened-Up Greek Yogurt Potato Salad
Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these luxuriously creamy blue cheese mashed potatoes.
Made with tender potatoes, rich dairy, and the distinctive sharp flavor of blue cheese, these are a decadent treat.
They’re perfect for pairing with grilled steaks or bold flavored proteins, offering a comforting yet sophisticated taste..
Pro Tip: Serve these rich mash alongside grilled steak or robustly flavored fish for a perfectly balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Crack Corn Salad
This "crack corn salad" lives up to its name with an addictive combination of sweet corn, smoky bacon, creamy Ranch dressing, and sharp cheddar cheese.
It’s incredibly quick to assemble, making it ideal for last-minute cookouts.
The mix of sweet, savory, and a touch of spicy jalapeño creates a flavor sensation you won't be able to resist..
Pro Tip: To keep the bacon delightfully crispy, stir it in just before serving, especially if making the salad ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Crack Corn Salad
Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
Simple, flavorful, and incredibly easy, this pesto tortellini pasta salad is a guaranteed win for any cookout.
With just five ingredients, including tender tortellini and vibrant pesto, it comes together in minutes.
It’s a satisfying, make-ahead dish that offers a delicious twist on classic pasta salad..
Pro Tip: This pasta salad is fantastic as a make-ahead dish; just ensure it's well-chilled before serving.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Cilantro Lime Butter
Experience corn on the cob like never before with this grilled version, infused with a zesty cilantro lime garlic butter.
Grilling in foil ensures the corn steams to perfection, soaking up all the delicious, bright flavors.
It’s an effortlessly elegant side dish that’s perfect for any summer barbecue..
Pro Tip: For an extra kick of flavor, brush more of the cilantro lime butter onto the corn after grilling.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cob with Cilantro Lime Butter
Spicy Mango Avocado Salad
This vibrant chopped salad is a delightful mix of sweet mango, creamy avocado, and a hint of spicy heat, all ready in a flash.
It’s incredibly refreshing and satisfying, perfect for a lighter side that still packs a punch of flavor.
This salad is a fantastic way to add a tropical touch to your cookout..
Pro Tip: To prevent the avocado from browning too quickly, toss it with a little lime juice before adding to the salad.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Mango Avocado Salad
Ultimate Classic Potato Salad
This is the potato salad dreams are made of! A perfect balance of tender potatoes, creamy dressing, and savory additions like crunchy celery and onion, plus hard-boiled eggs.
It’s a timeless, beloved side dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and always a welcome addition to any BBQ spread..
Pro Tip: Letting the potato salad chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Classic Potato Salad
Fruit Salad with Cool Whip
A sweet and refreshing finale to any cookout, this fruit salad is a delightful mix of colorful fruits folded into a light, creamy Cool Whip dressing.
It’s simple to prepare, bursting with natural sweetness, and offers a cooling contrast to grilled dishes.
It’s a nostalgic and always appreciated dessert or side..
Pro Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Salad with Cool Whip
Quick Pickled Red Onions
Add a vibrant pop of color and a tangy crunch to your cookout with these quick pickled red onions.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re ready in about an hour and are incredibly versatile.
They're perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, tacos, or adding to salads for an extra layer of flavor..
Pro Tip: A mandoline slicer is your best friend for achieving perfectly thin and even slices of red onion.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Red Onions
Easy Corn Riblets
Get ready for a fun and flavorful side! These 'corn ribs' are made by cutting corn on the cob into strips and seasoning them with a delicious spice blend, then baking or grilling.
They offer a unique texture and taste that’s a guaranteed hit, especially with kids, and are a fantastic way to enjoy corn..
Pro Tip: Reheat any leftovers in an air fryer or oven to recapture that delightful crispy texture.
Get the Recipe: Easy Corn Riblets
Amish Potato Salad
This sweet and creamy Amish potato salad is a comforting classic with a delightful tangy dressing, featuring mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, and smoked paprika.
It’s a richer, sweeter take on traditional potato salad that’s incredibly satisfying and perfect for potlucks, offering a taste of home-style goodness..
Pro Tip: For the best flavor development, let this potato salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad
Four Bean Vegetable Salad
A colorful and hearty salad packed with a medley of beans and crisp vegetables, all coated in a zesty vinaigrette.
This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture, making it a fantastic, robust side dish for any cookout.
It’s a great way to get your veggies in while keeping things deliciously simple..
Pro Tip: If prepping vegetables ahead of time, place a paper towel at the bottom of the storage container to absorb excess moisture and keep them crisp.
Get the Recipe: Four Bean Vegetable Salad
Mediterranean Bruschetta with Caramelized Onions
This delightful bruschetta offers a fresh and vibrant taste of the Mediterranean.
Toasted sourdough provides a sturdy base for creamy hummus, topped with sweet caramelized onions and roasted bell peppers, all finished with a tangy balsamic glaze.
It’s a light yet flavorful appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to assemble, perfect for kicking off any gathering..
Pro Tip: Make the caramelized onions and roasted peppers ahead of time for even faster assembly on the day of your cookout.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Bruschetta with Caramelized Onions
Oven-Fried Okra with a Cornmeal Crunch
Enjoy the classic Southern crunch of fried okra without the deep-frying mess! These oven-baked bites are coated in a savory cornmeal mixture and baked to crispy perfection.
They're a fantastic way to get that beloved texture with a lighter touch, making them an irresistible side dish for any BBQ..
Pro Tip: These are great for making ahead and can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for a quick crisp-up.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Fried Okra with a Cornmeal Crunch
Quick Pickled Watermelon Rind
Turn a typically discarded part of the watermelon into a zesty, refreshing treat! These quick pickles offer a delightful sweet and tangy flavor with a satisfying crispness.
They're a unique and zero-waste addition to your spread, perfect for cutting through richer flavors..
Pro Tip: Experiment with adding different whole spices like mustard seeds or red pepper flakes to customize the pickle flavor.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Watermelon Rind
Double-Fried Homemade French Fries
Achieve that perfect restaurant-style crispiness with these homemade French fries, made using the secret double-fry method.
Using Russet potatoes and frying them twice ensures a fluffy interior and a wonderfully golden, crunchy exterior.
They're a guaranteed hit for any crowd!.
Pro Tip: For the best results, fry your potatoes in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and ensure maximum crispiness.
Get the Recipe: Double-Fried Homemade French Fries
Deep-Fried Sweet Potato Fries with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your fry game with these irresistible sweet potato fries! Deep-fried to golden perfection, they boast a crispy exterior and a tender, sweet interior.
Seasoned with a hint of smoked paprika, these fries are a delicious departure from the usual and a sweet and savory crowd-pleaser..
Pro Tip: These fries are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be crisped up in the oven rather than the microwave.
Get the Recipe: Deep-Fried Sweet Potato Fries with Smoked Paprika
Classic House Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette
A crisp and refreshing house salad is the perfect counterpoint to hearty BBQ fare.
This classic version features a mix of fresh greens, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, all brought together by a simple, zesty homemade vinaigrette.
It’s light, vibrant, and always a welcome addition..
Pro Tip: Keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the salad's crisp texture.
Get the Recipe: Classic House Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette
Chilled Green Bean Salad with Walnuts
This vibrant chilled salad offers a delightful mix of crisp green beans, sweet peas, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a bright balsamic dressing.
It’s a refreshing and satisfying side that’s perfect for warmer weather.
Plus, it’s fantastic made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully..
Pro Tip: Don't overcook the green beans; they should be crisp-tender for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: Chilled Green Bean Salad with Walnuts
Honey Lime Coleslaw
Say goodbye to boring coleslaw! This version is a delightful explosion of flavor, featuring a tangy lime and creamy mayonnaise dressing with a touch of sweetness from honey.
It’s incredibly quick to whip up and offers a bright, zesty contrast to rich BBQ meats..
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lime Coleslaw
Mango Pico de Gallo
Add a tropical twist to your cookout with this vibrant mango pico de gallo! The sweet juiciness of mango pairs perfectly with the classic pico de gallo ingredients like tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño, all brightened with lime juice.
It’s a fresh, flavorful salsa that’s great with chips or as a topping for grilled dishes..
Pro Tip: Rinse diced red onions under cool water to mellow their sharpness before adding them to the salsa.
Get the Recipe: Mango Pico de Gallo
Avocado Pico de Gallo
Take your salsa game up a notch with this creamy and delicious avocado pico de gallo.
The addition of ripe avocado adds a rich, smooth texture that complements the fresh, chunky vegetables and tangy lime perfectly.
It's a satisfying and versatile topping or dip that everyone will love..
Pro Tip: Add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Pico de Gallo
Easy Grilled Green Beans with Seasoning Salt
Grilling green beans brings out a delightful smoky flavor and a tender-crisp texture.
Tossed with butter and a savory seasoning salt, these beans are a simple yet incredibly tasty side.
Using a grill basket makes them easy to manage, offering a unique grilled vegetable experience..
Pro Tip: If you don't have a grill basket, you can create foil packets for easy grilling and cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Green Beans with Seasoning Salt
TexMex Cucumber and Corn Salad
This refreshing TexMex salad is a vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, sweet corn, zesty lime, and a creamy dressing with a hint of spice.
It’s a delightful, cooling side dish that’s perfect for balancing out smoky BBQ flavors.
It’s incredibly easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser..
Pro Tip: Using mini cucumbers or English cucumbers with fewer seeds will give the salad a better texture.
Get the Recipe: TexMex Cucumber and Corn Salad
Crack Green Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar
These "crack" green beans are addictively delicious, combining the savory depth of bacon and soy sauce with the irresistible sweetness of brown sugar.
Made with simple ingredients, this dish transforms canned green beans into a rich, flavor-packed side that’s impossible to resist..
Pro Tip: Turkey bacon can be used as a leaner substitute for regular bacon, still providing great flavor and crispiness.
Get the Recipe: Crack Green Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar
Loaded Potato Salad with Crispy Bacon
A classic summer side dish, this loaded potato salad is elevated with creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions.
The combination of sour cream and mayonnaise creates a rich, luscious texture that’s perfect for any cookout or potluck..
Pro Tip: Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, but other waxy potatoes will also work well.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Salad with Crispy Bacon
Smoked Sweet Potatoes with Hot Honey Butter
Take your sweet potatoes to a whole new level with this smoked preparation.
Infused with a smoky essence and finished with a dollop of decadent hot honey butter, these potatoes are incredibly tender and bursting with sweet, savory, and spicy notes.
They’re the ultimate show-stopping side dish..
Pro Tip: If you don't have hot honey, you can easily make your own by mixing regular honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes with Hot Honey Butter
Tangy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is a delightful twist on a classic, bringing together tender pasta, crunchy dill pickles, and a creamy, tangy dressing.
It's the perfect balance of savory and zesty, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Plus, its make-ahead-friendly nature means you can prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining..
Pro Tip: To ensure your pasta salad doesn't become runny, drain the pasta thoroughly and wait until it's completely cool before adding the dressing.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Spicy Watermelon & Charred Corn Salad
Experience a burst of summer with this vibrant salad that artfully combines juicy watermelon, sweet charred corn, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice from jalapeño.
The zesty lime dressing ties all the flavors together for a refreshing and unexpectedly delicious side that's perfect for warm-weather gatherings..
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Watermelon & Charred Corn Salad
Zesty Dill Pickle Chopped Salad
Satisfy your pickle craving with this uniquely flavorful chopped salad! Crisp greens, fresh dill, and of course, plenty of pickles are tossed in a light and zesty dill pickle dressing.
It's a refreshing and satisfying side that's quick to prepare and can be customized to your liking..
Pro Tip: To keep this salad wonderfully crisp, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Dill Pickle Chopped Salad
Garlic Herb Accordion Potatoes
These fun and flavorful accordion potatoes are a guaranteed showstopper! Thinly sliced and baked to crispy perfection with garlic butter and fresh herbs, they offer a delightful texture and taste that's far more exciting than regular fries.
They're surprisingly easy to make and look incredibly impressive..
Pro Tip: Soak your bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning in the oven.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Accordion Potatoes
Fluffy Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
Whip up a batch of these incredibly light and flaky buttermilk biscuits for a classic comfort side that pairs perfectly with any meal.
Made with simple ingredients and a touch of magic from cold butter and buttermilk, these biscuits are tender on the inside with a perfectly golden crust..
Pro Tip: For the flakiest biscuits, ensure your butter, lard, and buttermilk are kept very cold before mixing.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
Vibrant Chimichurri Sauce
Brighten up your grilled dishes with this zesty and herbaceous chimichurri sauce.
Packed with fresh cilantro, parsley, garlic, and a hint of chili, this Argentinian classic offers a vibrant punch of flavor that's perfect for drizzling over meats, chicken, or fish..
Pro Tip: Allow the chimichurri to rest for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Vibrant Chimichurri Sauce
Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad
This timeless Strawberry Spinach Salad is a taste of pure summer, featuring sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, and a delightful double-strawberry vinaigrette.
It's a light, refreshing, and beautiful salad that's always a crowd-pleaser, whether served alongside grilled chicken or as a refreshing side..
Pro Tip: Add toasted slivered almonds or poppy seeds to the salad for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Get the Recipe: Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad
Balsamic Glazed Veggie Skewers
These colorful veggie skewers are a grill-master's dream! Featuring a medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion, they're grilled to tender-crisp perfection and brushed with a savory garlic herb sauce, then finished with a tangy balsamic glaze.
They're a healthy and delicious way to enjoy grilled vegetables..
Pro Tip: To ensure even cooking, try to chop your vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Glazed Veggie Skewers
Fruity Raspberry Fluff Salad
This light and airy "fluff" salad is a delightful retro dessert or side dish, perfect for potlucks and picnics.
It combines fluffy marshmallows, cottage cheese, whipped topping, and a medley of fruits like peaches and mangoes, all brightened by raspberry jello for a sweet and slightly tart flavor..
Pro Tip: For a tropical twist, try substituting pineapple chunks or shredded coconut for some of the other fruits.
Get the Recipe: Fruity Raspberry Fluff Salad
Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Capture the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn with this off-the-cob salad.
Roasted corn is tossed with fresh tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and a creamy, spiced mayonnaise dressing, finished with salty cheese.
It’s a zesty, satisfying side that’s wonderfully versatile..
Pro Tip: Don't stir the corn while it's roasting; let it develop a nice golden-brown color for maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Smoky Grilled Romaine Salad
Give your salad a unique smoky twist by grilling fresh romaine hearts! Grilling brings out a subtle sweetness and a hint of char, while a simple Dijon vinaigrette adds a tangy counterpoint.
It’s a surprisingly elegant side that’s quick to prepare and adds a gourmet touch to any BBQ..
Pro Tip: Keep the romaine hearts on the grill for just a minute or two per side to get a light char without making them wilt.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Grilled Romaine Salad
Hearty Calico Beans
This vintage Calico Beans recipe is a comforting and flavorful mix of three different beans, ground beef, and bacon, all simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce.
It's a hearty dish that works wonderfully as a main or a side, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any casual gathering..
Pro Tip: This dish can be made ahead and reheated, making it a fantastic option for busy hosts.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Calico Beans
Cool Mango Cucumber Salad
Beat the heat with this refreshingly light mango cucumber salad.
The sweet juiciness of mango pairs perfectly with crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and a bright balsamic citrus vinaigrette, enhanced by a hint of fresh mint.
It's a hydrating and flavorful salad that's a welcome addition to any summer spread..
Pro Tip: For an extra textural element, consider adding toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds.
Get the Recipe: Cool Mango Cucumber Salad
Fresh Avocado & Corn Salad
This quick and easy avocado salad is bursting with fresh summer flavors! Creamy avocado, sweet corn, ripe tomatoes, and crisp cucumber are tossed with black beans in a simple olive oil and seasoning dressing.
It’s a light, nutrient-rich side that balances out heartier BBQ fare beautifully..
Pro Tip: To prevent the avocado from browning if making ahead, prepare the salad with all ingredients except the avocado, and gently toss it in just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Avocado & Corn Salad
Sweet & Tangy Amish Macaroni Salad
Transport yourself to a picnic with this classic Amish Macaroni Salad, featuring a sweet and tangy dressing that sets it apart.
Tender elbow macaroni is tossed with chopped eggs, carrots, and bell peppers in a creamy, zesty sauce that's a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly acidic notes..
Pro Tip: For the best flavor development, chill this macaroni salad for at least 24 hours before serving.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Tangy Amish Macaroni Salad
Spicy Jalapeño Creamed Corn
This jalapeño creamed corn is a flavor powerhouse that comes together in a flash! Sweet corn kernels are bathed in a rich, creamy base with just the right amount of heat from diced jalapeños.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, making it an irresistible side for any BBQ..
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Jalapeño Creamed Corn
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is a delightful twist on a classic! It captures all the savory, tangy goodness of deviled eggs, combined with tender pasta, crisp celery, and a creamy dressing.
It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any casual get-together..
Pro Tip: This salad tastes even better when made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Garlic Herb Grilled Vegetables
Celebrate the season's bounty with these perfectly grilled vegetables! Tender-crisp and infused with garlic and herbs, these veggies are a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.
They offer a wonderful smoky char and vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a delightful side..
Pro Tip: Grilled vegetables are fantastic at room temperature, so don't stress about serving them piping hot!
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Grilled Vegetables
Chimichurri Potato Salad
Say goodbye to mayo-heavy potato salads and hello to this vibrant chimichurri version! Tender baby potatoes are tossed in a zesty, herb-packed chimichurri sauce with parsley, cilantro, garlic, and a hint of spice.
It's a refreshing, flavorful, and lighter take that's perfect served warm or cold..
Pro Tip: This potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days and is delicious eaten chilled.
Get the Recipe: Chimichurri Potato Salad
BLT Pasta Salad
Get all the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich in a hearty pasta salad! This dish is packed with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tender pasta, all coated in a creamy, zesty dressing.
It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make side that’s bursting with fresh, familiar flavors..
Pro Tip: For the freshest taste, consider adding the lettuce and tomatoes just before serving to prevent wilting.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad