When the grill is fired up and the summer sun is shining, a light and fresh side dish is essential! This collection of healthy BBQ sides is designed to complement your grilled favorites without weighing you down.
Get ready for vibrant flavors, crisp textures, and a refreshing burst of goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds..
Table of Contents
Perfectly Grilled Vegetables
Elevate your greens with this guide to grilling a medley of your favorite vegetables.
Lightly seasoned with garlic and sea salt, these tender-crisp veggies offer a delightful char and a healthy dose of flavor.
They're incredibly versatile, making them a go-to side for any summer meal..
Pro Tip: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week; reheat gently in a covered skillet with a touch of water.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Grilled Vegetables
Sweet & Spicy Mango Pico de Gallo
Add a tropical twist to your cookout with this vibrant mango pico de gallo.
The juicy sweetness of mangoes perfectly balances the tang of lime and the gentle heat of fresh chilies, all brought together with cilantro and red onion.
It's a refreshing salsa that brightens up any dish..
Pro Tip: For easier handling of chili peppers, wear disposable gloves while chopping to avoid any spicy residue.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Mango Pico de Gallo
Oven-Fried Okra 'Fingers'
Enjoy the classic crunch of Southern fried okra with a healthier, oven-baked approach.
Coated in cornmeal and seasoned to perfection, these little 'fingers' deliver a satisfying crispiness without the excess oil.
They're perfect for dipping and a delightful addition to any BBQ spread..
Pro Tip: Freeze coated raw okra on parchment paper, then transfer to a freezer bag; add a couple of minutes to cooking time when baking.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Fried Okra 'Fingers'
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Tangy Dressing
This broccoli salad is a refreshing and satisfying side, naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
Featuring crisp broccoli, sweet craisins, and crunchy pine nuts, it's all brought together with a tangy, subtly sweet mayonnaise-based dressing.
It's a make-ahead winner that holds up beautifully..
Pro Tip: This salad can be made up to 2 days in advance; give it a quick toss before serving as the dressing may settle.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Tangy Dressing
Make-Ahead Chilled Green Bean Salad
Bright, flavorful, and perfect for making ahead, this chilled green bean salad is a delightful mix of crisp green beans, tender peas, thinly sliced squash, and crunchy walnuts.
Tossed in a zesty balsamic dressing, it’s a light yet satisfying side that gets even better as the flavors meld..
Pro Tip: To enhance the flavors, toss the salad with its dressing and refrigerate overnight before serving.
Get the Recipe: Make-Ahead Chilled Green Bean Salad
TexMex Cucumber & Corn Salad
A vibrant and refreshing TexMex twist on a classic corn salad, this dish features crisp mini cucumbers, sweet corn, sharp red onion, and a hint of jalapeño, all bound in a creamy, zesty lime dressing.
It's the perfect cool counterpoint to any grilled or roasted dish..
Pro Tip: For a milder flavor, rinse the diced red onions under cool water before adding them to the salad.
Get the Recipe: TexMex Cucumber & Corn Salad
Caprese Panzanella Toscana
This Tuscan-inspired bread salad takes a Caprese turn with creamy fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tossed with toasted bread.
The tomatoes are lightly salted to release their juices, creating a robust flavor that infuses the entire dish.
It’s a hearty, textural delight perfect for summer..
Pro Tip: Serve this salad at room temperature within a few hours of making it for the best texture and flavor integration.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panzanella Toscana
Easy Baked Corn 'Ribs'
Get ready for a fun and flavorful twist on corn on the cob! These 'corn ribs' are cut into a unique shape and seasoned with a smoky, savory spice blend before being baked to tender, slightly crispy perfection.
They're a naturally vegan and incredibly appealing side dish..
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, let the seasoned corn marinate in the sauce for about 15 minutes before baking.
Get the Recipe: Easy Baked Corn 'Ribs'
Southern Italian Pasta Salad Crudaiola Barese
Embrace the colors of Italy with this simple and healthy pasta salad, featuring fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a sprinkle of hard ricotta.
It's a delightful, no-fuss dish that's perfect for a light meal, buffet, or picnic, showcasing the fresh flavors of Southern Italy..
Pro Tip: If you can't find ricotta salata, aged feta makes a great substitute for this rustic pasta salad.
Get the Recipe: Southern Italian Pasta Salad Crudaiola Barese
Grilled Corn with Cilantro Lime Butter
Juicy sweet corn gets a major flavor upgrade when grilled in foil with a zesty cilantro lime garlic butter.
This easy method ensures every kernel is infused with deliciousness, making it a perfectly tender and flavorful side dish that's a summer staple..
Pro Tip: Use a pastry brush to generously coat the corn with the cilantro lime butter before grilling for maximum flavor infusion.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn with Cilantro Lime Butter
Zesty Cajun Coleslaw
Add a kick to your cookout with this fresh, crunchy Cajun coleslaw! A creamy dressing infused with jalapeños and a sweet-and-spicy Cajun seasoning gives this slaw a unique and irresistible flavor.
It's the perfect make-ahead side that gets even better with time..
Pro Tip: Coleslaw tastes best when the flavors have a chance to meld; let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Cajun Coleslaw
Hearty Bacon Potato Salad (No Mayo!)
Enjoy a delicious potato salad that skips the mayo for a lighter, flavorful alternative.
Tender potatoes are tossed with crispy bacon and a simple oil and vinegar dressing, creating a satisfying side dish that's best served warm or at room temperature..
Pro Tip: For the best texture, let the cooked potatoes cool completely before mixing to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Bacon Potato Salad (No Mayo!)
Aromatic Lemon Dill Rice
Brighten up your plate with this simple yet flavorful lemon dill rice.
The zesty notes of lemon combined with the fresh, herbaceous touch of dill create a light and aromatic side dish that perfectly complements any meal, adding a burst of freshness..
Pro Tip: This flavorful rice can be paired with lemon dill chicken or lemon dill potatoes for a cohesive flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Aromatic Lemon Dill Rice
Colorful & Easy Cowboy Caviar
This vibrant bean salad, often called Texas Caviar, is a potluck favorite for a reason! Packed with black beans, black-eyed peas, fresh veggies, and a tangy lime dressing, it's a delicious and healthy option that can be eaten with a spoon or scooped onto chips..
Pro Tip: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Colorful & Easy Cowboy Caviar
Smoky Garlic Thyme Mushrooms
Earthy mushrooms are infused with a delightful smoky flavor and seasoned with garlic and thyme for a simple yet sophisticated side dish.
Cooked in a single pan, these tender morsels are perfect alongside grilled meats or as a flavorful topping..
Pro Tip: If you don't have fresh thyme, substitute with about 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme for a similar flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Garlic Thyme Mushrooms
Dill Pickle Chopped Salad
Craving that briny pickle punch? This dill pickle chopped salad delivers exactly that, with a refreshing twist.
Packed with crisp greens, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dill pickle dressing, it's a delightful departure from heavy, creamy salads.
It’s perfect for satisfying pickle cravings while keeping things light and healthy..
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, consider adding some toasted sunflower seeds or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
Get the Recipe: Dill Pickle Chopped Salad
Roasted Radishes with a Kick
Don't underestimate the humble radish! Roasting transforms them into tender, slightly sweet morsels with a delightful crisp edge, offering a fantastic alternative to potatoes.
A touch of spice from red pepper flakes makes these roasted radishes an addictive and healthy addition to your cookout spread..
Pro Tip: Ensure radishes are cut into uniform sizes for even roasting and a consistent texture.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Radishes with a Kick
Mediterranean Green Bean & Potato Salad
Step away from the mayo and embrace vibrant Mediterranean flavors with this green bean and potato salad.
Tossed in a sun-dried tomato pesto and olive oil dressing, it’s naturally gluten-free and wonderfully light.
The combination of tender potatoes, crisp green beans, and zesty pesto makes it a perfect make-ahead dish..
Pro Tip: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making it ideal for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Green Bean & Potato Salad
Quick & Easy Avocado Corn Salad
Bright, refreshing, and incredibly simple, this avocado corn salad is a burst of summer in every bite.
Loaded with fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and sweet corn, it’s a nutritious and colorful side that comes together in minutes.
It's light, satisfying, and pairs beautifully with grilled favorites..
Pro Tip: To prevent the avocado from browning if making ahead, add it just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Quick & Easy Avocado Corn Salad
Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad
A timeless classic for a reason, this strawberry spinach salad offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
Tender spinach, juicy strawberries, and a simple, bright strawberry vinaigrette create a light and refreshing side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
It's naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free..
Pro Tip: Add some toasted slivered almonds or poppy seeds for extra texture and nutty flavor.
Get the Recipe: Classic Strawberry Spinach Salad
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
Transform red cabbage into a culinary star with this braised recipe.
The natural sweetness of apples and a hint of tang from apple cider vinegar create a complex, comforting flavor profile.
It’s a vibrant, healthy side that’s both savory and sweet, adding a beautiful pop of color to your plate..
Pro Tip: This dish freezes well, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later.
Get the Recipe: Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Parmesan
Experience Brussels sprouts like never before with this fresh, crunchy shaved salad.
Thinly sliced sprouts are tossed with sweet dates, crunchy pecans, and salty Parmesan cheese in a light vinaigrette.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a cruciferous vegetable, offering a delightful texture and flavor combination..
Pro Tip: To save time, look for pre-shaved Brussels sprouts at your local grocery store.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Parmesan
Simple & Creamy Coleslaw
Forget the heavy, overly sweet coleslaw of the past! This simple creamy version uses honey and apple cider vinegar for a perfectly balanced dressing.
It’s quick to make, wonderfully refreshing, and the ideal crunchy accompaniment to any BBQ spread..
Pro Tip: For a less creamy option, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Get the Recipe: Simple & Creamy Coleslaw
Cucumber Pomegranate Salad with Mint
This salad is a celebration of fresh, bright flavors.
Crisp cucumber, juicy pomegranate seeds, and fragrant mint come together in a light dressing for a cooling and incredibly satisfying side dish.
It’s a no-cook wonder that’s perfect for a hot summer day..
Pro Tip: Add pomegranate seeds just before serving to keep everything looking its vibrant best.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Pomegranate Salad with Mint
Mango Corn Salsa
Sweet mango and savory corn come together in this vibrant salsa that's as versatile as it is delicious.
With a hint of citrus and customizable spice, it’s the perfect fresh topping for grilled meats or a delightful dip with chips.
It’s naturally gluten-free and adds a tropical twist to any meal..
Pro Tip: For a spicier kick, add a finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Get the Recipe: Mango Corn Salsa
Spicy Mango Avocado Salad
Indulge in a salad that's both rich and refreshing.
This chopped mango avocado salad combines sweet mango, creamy avocado, and a touch of heat for a flavor explosion.
It’s ready in minutes and makes for a satisfying light lunch or a vibrant side dish..
Pro Tip: Consider adding some red onion for a bit of sharp crunch and color contrast.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Mango Avocado Salad
Vegan Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Light, fresh, and packed with seasonal veggies and herbs, this vegan pasta salad is a summer essential.
The bright lemon vinaigrette coats perfectly cooked pasta and a colorful mix of vegetables, making it a versatile and satisfying side that everyone can enjoy..
Pro Tip: Broiling the vegetables before adding them to the salad adds a lovely char and depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Mexican Orzo Pasta Salad
Bring the flavors of Mexico to your BBQ with this zesty orzo pasta salad.
Packed with corn, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro, all tossed in a light lime vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings..
Pro Tip: To prevent the pasta from absorbing too much dressing if making ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Orzo Pasta Salad
Honey Lime Coleslaw
A delightful twist on a classic, this honey lime coleslaw offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and fresh.
The simple dressing comes together in minutes, coating crisp shredded cabbage and carrots for a vibrant, crunchy side that’s sure to be a hit..
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add some finely chopped green onions and a pinch of celery seed to the dressing.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lime Coleslaw
Fruity Cool Whip Salad
Bring a touch of nostalgic sweetness to your cookout with this simple fruit salad, affectionately called a 'salad' for its delightful dessert-like qualities.
A mix of fresh fruits folded into light, airy Cool Whip, it’s a refreshingly sweet end to any outdoor meal..
Pro Tip: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the Cool Whip for an extra hint of classic dessert flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fruity Cool Whip Salad
Carrot Ribbon Salad with Arugula
Imagine delicate ribbons of fresh carrot and peppery arugula tossed in a bright, citrusy dressing.
This salad is a refreshing and visually stunning addition to any meal, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of vitamin-rich goodness.
It's incredibly quick to assemble, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a vibrant side in a flash..
Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, add toasted slivered almonds or a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Ribbon Salad with Arugula
Easy Grilled Green Beans
Elevate your green beans with a simple yet satisfying grilling experience.
These beans are tossed with butter and savory seasoning, then cooked on the grill to achieve a tender-crisp texture with a hint of smokiness.
They're a fantastic way to enjoy a classic vegetable with a fresh, outdoor-cooked flavor that pairs perfectly with barbecue..
Pro Tip: If you don't have a grill basket, create a foil packet to steam and infuse the beans with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Green Beans
Mediterranean Farro Salad
This hearty farro salad is a fantastic Mediterranean-inspired dish packed with vibrant vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, all tossed with chewy, protein-rich farro.
The simple, tangy dressing ties everything together for a satisfying side that holds up beautifully.
It's a versatile option that's great for meal prep and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature..
Pro Tip: This salad gets even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Farro Salad
Quick Pickled Red Onions
Add a bright, zesty punch to any dish with these incredibly easy, no-cook pickled red onions.
Thinly sliced red onions transform into vibrant, tangy jewels in just an hour, offering a delightful crunch and a beautiful pop of color.
They are the perfect condiment to elevate sandwiches, salads, tacos, and more..
Pro Tip: Use red wine vinegar for a deeper flavor and a more intense color, or apple cider vinegar for a lighter, fruitier note.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Red Onions
5-Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, this chickpea salad is a delightful and healthy option that comes together in minutes.
Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tender chickpeas, and fragrant herbs are tossed in a bright lemon dressing for a refreshing and satisfying dish.
It’s perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side for any meal..
Pro Tip: Letting this salad sit for about 10-20 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Get the Recipe: 5-Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Pesto Salad
This vibrant orzo salad is a flavor explosion, combining tender orzo pasta with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, crisp cucumber, and creamy feta, all coated in a zesty pesto dressing.
It’s a perfect make-ahead side dish for picnics and potlucks, offering a delicious balance of fresh and savory notes that everyone will love..
Pro Tip: To keep the salad from becoming soggy if made far in advance, store the dressing separately until just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Pesto Salad
Lightened-Up Greek Yogurt Potato Salad
Enjoy all the creamy goodness of potato salad with a healthier twist! This version swaps out mayonnaise for tangy Greek yogurt, creating a bright and refreshing dressing packed with fresh dill.
It’s a perfect summer side that’s lighter but still incredibly satisfying and full of flavor..
Pro Tip: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning – a pinch more salt, pepper, or dill can make all the difference!
Get the Recipe: Lightened-Up Greek Yogurt Potato Salad
Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken
This flavorful pesto pasta salad is a summertime dream, featuring tender pasta, juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all tossed in a basil pesto and Italian dressing.
It’s a robust and satisfying side that’s incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd at any gathering..
Pro Tip: Cook your pasta to just al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly in the dressing.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken
Old-Fashioned Baked Beans
A true classic, these slow-cooked baked beans are rich, savory, and perfectly sweet, thanks to a touch of molasses and brown sugar.
Loaded with tender navy beans, smoky bacon, and aromatic onions, this dish is the ultimate comfort food side that’s ideal for barbecues and potlucks.
They’re worth the slow cook for their deep, complex flavor..
Pro Tip: These beans are fantastic for making ahead and can be frozen for up to 3-4 months, making them perfect for batch cooking.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Baked Beans
Spiced Watermelon and Charred Corn Summer Salad
This vibrant salad is a unique and refreshing twist on summer produce, combining sweet watermelon with smoky charred corn, fresh herbs, and a zesty lime dressing.
It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that’s both light and incredibly satisfying, perfect for a hot day..
Pro Tip: Adding a pinch of chili powder or a diced jalapeño can easily add a touch more heat to this salad.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Watermelon and Charred Corn Summer Salad
Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind
Give new life to watermelon rinds with this surprisingly delicious and crisp pickle recipe.
The rinds are transformed with a tangy brine and aromatic spices, creating a sweet and zesty condiment that’s perfect for charcuterie boards, sandwiches, or as a refreshing snack.
It’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste and add a unique flavor to your meals..
Pro Tip: Experiment with different whole spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, or mustard seeds to customize the pickle flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind
Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
This 5-ingredient pesto tortellini pasta salad is incredibly easy and packed with flavor, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Tender tortellini, a vibrant pesto dressing, and optional add-ins create a satisfying dish that’s perfect as a light meal or a crowd-pleasing side at your next cookout..
Pro Tip: This salad keeps well, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for busy days or entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
Crispy Baked Greek Potato Wedges
Achieve perfectly crispy potato wedges without the frying! These fingerling potatoes are tossed in fragrant Greek seasonings and baked until golden brown and tender on the inside.
They’re a healthy, irresistible side dish that pairs wonderfully with virtually any meal, offering a flavorful Mediterranean twist..
Pro Tip: Ensure your potato wedges are in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow them to crisp up properly.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Greek Potato Wedges
Blackened Corn
Experience corn like never before with this flavorful blackened corn recipe.
Charring fresh corn kernels in a hot skillet with a smoky seasoning blend creates a delicious depth of flavor and a delightful texture.
It's a versatile side that adds a gourmet touch to any BBQ or summer meal..
Pro Tip: Use fresh, in-season corn for the sweetest flavor, and don't be afraid of a good char – that's where the flavor comes from!
Get the Recipe: Blackened Corn
Grilled Romaine Salad
Elevate your greens with this simple yet elegant grilled romaine salad.
The crisp romaine hearts get just enough char on the grill to impart a subtle smoky flavor, while a tangy Dijon vinaigrette adds a zesty finish.
It's a surprisingly delightful way to enjoy lettuce, offering a unique texture and taste..
Pro Tip: Grill the romaine hearts cut-side down just long enough to get a little color; you want it to stay crisp!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Romaine Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Transport your taste buds south of the border with this off-the-cob twist on traditional Mexican street corn.
It's a vibrant mix of roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, zesty red onion, and a creamy, spiced sauce, all brought together with a sprinkle of salty cheese.
This salad is incredibly versatile, working perfectly as a side, a light meal, or even a flavorful snack.
It’s a refreshing and zesty addition that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser..
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try grilling the corn instead of pan-roasting for a delicious smoky char.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad
This delightful pasta salad is a taste of summer sunshine in every bite.
Sweet corn and juicy cherry tomatoes are tossed with tender pasta in a bright lemon dressing, finished with fresh cilantro.
It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for potlucks or as a go-to side for any BBQ.
You can even prep it ahead for stress-free entertaining..
Pro Tip: For a creamy variation, whisk a couple of spoonfuls of mayonnaise into the dressing before combining it with the pasta.
Get the Recipe: Corn and Tomato Pasta Salad
Classic House Salad with Vinaigrette
Every BBQ needs a crisp, refreshing salad, and this classic house salad delivers.
Packed with fresh greens, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and topped with sharp cheddar and savory bacon, it’s a satisfying side that cuts through richer flavors.
The homemade sweet and tangy vinaigrette ties it all together, making it a simple yet standout addition to your cookout..
Pro Tip: Mix up your greens by adding some peppery arugula or crisp romaine for varied texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Classic House Salad with Vinaigrette
Rosemary and Garlic Grilled Potatoes
Elevate your grilled potato game with these aromatic and flavorful foil packets.
Tender potatoes are infused with the earthy notes of fresh rosemary and pungent garlic, then grilled to perfection.
They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a low-fuss yet high-reward side that pairs wonderfully with any grilled main course..
Pro Tip: For an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary and Garlic Grilled Potatoes