Are you tired of serving the same old potato salad and coleslaw at your barbecues? Well, it’s time to shake things up and try some unique barbecue side dishes that will leave your guests asking for the recipe. From grilled watermelon skewers to cauliflower buffalo bites, this article highlights 10 delicious and exciting sides that will take your outdoor cooking game to the next level. So get ready to impress your friends and family with these unexpected twists on classic barbecue fare.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Mexican-style elote with cotija cheese and lime
If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your grilled corn, then Mexican-style elote is the way to go. This popular street food from Mexico features grilled corn on the cob smothered in a rich and creamy mixture of cotija cheese, mayonnaise, lime juice, and spices. The tanginess of the cotija cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn, while the lime juice adds a refreshing touch. It’s a combination that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Spicy honey butter grilled corn
For those who prefer a touch of heat in their corn on the cob, the spicy honey butter grilled corn is a must-try. This flavorful side dish combines the sweetness of honey with a kick of spice from chili powder and cayenne pepper. The buttery glaze adds a rich and indulgent element to the corn, making it a perfect accompaniment to any grilled main course.
Parmesan and herb grilled corn
If you’re a fan of savory flavors, then the Parmesan and herb grilled corn is the perfect choice for you. This delicious side dish features corn on the cob coated in a mixture of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a medley of herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano. The cheese forms a crispy crust on the outside of the corn, while the herbs infuse it with a delightful aroma. It’s a sophisticated twist on classic grilled corn that is sure to impress your guests.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Mediterranean-style skewers with zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion
For a burst of Mediterranean flavors, try grilling vegetable skewers with zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion. This colorful combination of vegetables provides a refreshing and healthy side dish option for any barbecue. The zucchini adds a light and tender texture, the bell peppers bring a hint of sweetness, and the red onion adds a touch of sharpness. When grilled to perfection, these skewers make a delightful addition to any plate.
Teriyaki glazed skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, and pineapple
If you’re craving a taste of the tropics, then teriyaki glazed skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, and pineapple are the way to go. The combination of savory teriyaki sauce, earthy mushrooms, sweet bell peppers, and tangy pineapple creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The teriyaki glaze caramelizes on the grill, giving the skewers a tantalizingly sticky and sweet coating. These skewers are a perfect accompaniment to any barbecue, adding a touch of exotic flair to the feast.
Tandoori-spiced skewers with eggplant, cauliflower, and cherry tomatoes
For those who enjoy bold and aromatic spices, tandoori-spiced skewers with eggplant, cauliflower, and cherry tomatoes are an excellent choice. The combination of Tandoori seasoning, smoky grilled vegetables, and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors. The eggplant and cauliflower absorb the flavors of the spices, resulting in a smoky and savory experience. These skewers are a feast for the senses and are sure to impress your friends and family at your next barbecue.
Smoky Baked Beans
Classic homemade baked beans with molasses and bacon
No barbecue is complete without a serving of classic homemade baked beans. This timeless dish combines tender navy beans with rich and smoky flavors like molasses and bacon. The slow-cooking process infuses the beans with a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The sweetness from the molasses balances perfectly with the smoky saltiness of the bacon, making it a crowd-pleaser at any outdoor gathering.
Vegetarian baked beans with a smoky chipotle twist
If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative to traditional baked beans, the vegetarian baked beans with a smoky chipotle twist are a fantastic option. The chipotle peppers add a hint of smokiness and spice to the dish, giving it a unique and flavorful twist. These beans are surprisingly hearty and satisfying, making them a perfect choice for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Baked beans with a Mexican flair, featuring chorizo and jalapenos
For those who enjoy a touch of heat in their barbecue sides, baked beans with a Mexican flair featuring chorizo and jalapenos are a must-try. The smoky and spicy flavors of the chorizo and jalapenos add a kick to the traditional baked beans. The combination of the savory chorizo, the heat from the jalapenos, and the sweetness of the beans creates a flavor profile that is bold, satisfying, and unforgettable.
Tangy Coleslaw
Creamy buttermilk coleslaw with a tangy twist
Coleslaw is a classic barbecue side dish, but why not give it a tangy twist? The creamy buttermilk coleslaw with a tangy twist is a delicious variation that adds a zesty kick to the traditional recipe. The buttermilk adds a pleasant tanginess to the dish, while the cabbage and carrots provide a satisfying crunch. It’s a refreshing and flavorful side that pairs perfectly with any grilled meat or sandwich.
Asian-inspired coleslaw with sesame vinaigrette
If you’re looking to add an Asian flair to your barbecue, try the Asian-inspired coleslaw with sesame vinaigrette. This coleslaw features a savory sesame vinaigrette dressing that adds a distinct and delicious flavor to the dish. The cabbage, carrots, and scallions provide a crunchy texture, while the dressing brings a nutty and slightly sweet taste. It’s a refreshing and vibrant side dish that will elevate your barbecue experience.
Spicy jalapeno coleslaw for some extra kick
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the spicy jalapeno coleslaw is a fantastic choice. This coleslaw recipe adds a fiery kick to the traditional dish by incorporating fresh jalapenos. The heat from the jalapenos is balanced by the creaminess of the dressing, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s an excellent option for those who like to add a little excitement to their meal.
Garlic Butter Grilled Potatoes
Grilled baby potatoes with garlic butter and fresh herbs
Garlic butter grilled potatoes are a heavenly side dish that is bursting with flavor. The combination of tender baby potatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs creates a sensational taste experience. The garlic butter melts into the potatoes as they cook on the grill, creating a rich and indulgent coating. The fresh herbs add a vibrant aroma and a pop of color to the dish. These grilled potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to any grilled meat or fish.
Cheesy grilled potato packets with bacon and onions
If you’re a fan of cheese and bacon, then the cheesy grilled potato packets with bacon and onions are a must-try. These individual foil packets are filled with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and savory onions, all topped with a generous amount of melted cheese. As the packets cook on the grill, the flavors meld together, creating a mouthwatering combination of cheesy, smoky, and savory goodness. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that is sure to impress.
Crispy grilled sweet potato wedges with a honey cinnamon glaze
For a sweet and savory twist on grilled potatoes, try the crispy grilled sweet potato wedges with a honey cinnamon glaze. These wedges are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated with a sticky and sweet glaze made from honey and cinnamon. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is enhanced by the glaze, creating a delightful balance of flavors. These grilled sweet potato wedges are a crowd-pleasing side dish that will leave everyone asking for more.
Caprese Salad
Classic Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil
Caprese salad is a timeless classic that combines the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This simple yet elegant salad is a celebration of summer, showcasing the beauty of seasonal produce. The juicy tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness, while the creamy mozzarella adds a touch of richness. The fresh basil ties all the flavors together and adds a delightful freshness to the dish. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze completes this refreshing and light salad.
Grilled Caprese salad with charred tomatoes and balsamic reduction
For a twist on the classic Caprese salad, try the grilled Caprese salad with charred tomatoes and balsamic reduction. Grilling the tomatoes adds a smoky and slightly caramelized flavor to the dish, elevating it to a new level of deliciousness. The balsamic reduction adds a tangy and sweet element that complements the flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella perfectly. It’s a sophisticated and visually stunning salad that will impress your guests.
Watermelon Caprese salad with feta cheese and mint
For a refreshing and unique twist on the traditional Caprese salad, try the watermelon Caprese salad with feta cheese and mint. This salad combines juicy watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and fragrant mint leaves for a truly delightful experience. The sweet and juicy watermelon pairs beautifully with the salty feta cheese, while the mint adds a touch of freshness. It’s a light and refreshing salad that is perfect for summer barbecues or as a standalone dish.
Quinoa Salad
Refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette
Quinoa salad is a healthy and versatile side dish that allows you to get creative with your ingredients. A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette is a fantastic option for a light and tangy dish. The quinoa provides a nutty and protein-rich base, while the cucumber and cherry tomatoes add a refreshing crunch. The lemon vinaigrette brings a tangy and citrusy zing that ties all the flavors together. It’s a nutritious and delicious salad that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.
Mediterranean quinoa salad with olives, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers
If you’re looking for a Mediterranean-inspired salad, the Mediterranean quinoa salad with olives, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers is a perfect choice. This salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the protein-packed goodness of quinoa. The briny olives, tangy feta cheese, and smoky roasted red peppers create a harmonious blend of flavors. The olive oil-based dressing adds a richness, while the fresh herbs provide a burst of freshness. It’s a vibrant and flavorful salad that is sure to become a favorite.
Fruity quinoa salad with oranges, cranberries, and a citrus dressing
For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their salads, the fruity quinoa salad with oranges, cranberries, and a citrus dressing is a delightful option. The combination of juicy oranges, tart cranberries, and the nuttiness of quinoa creates a perfectly balanced salad. The citrus dressing adds a refreshing tang to the salad, enhancing the flavors of the fruits and the grains. It’s a colorful and vibrant salad that is as delicious as it is nutritious.
Grilled Watermelon
Grilled watermelon slices with a balsamic glaze
Grilling watermelon might seem unusual, but it’s a technique that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit and adds a smoky flavor to each bite. Grilled watermelon slices with a balsamic glaze are a fantastic way to elevate this summer fruit to new heights. The heat from the grill caramelizes the sugars in the watermelon, intensifying their flavor. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy and savory element that perfectly balances the sweetness of the fruit. It’s a unique and refreshing dessert or side dish that will impress your guests.
Watermelon feta salad with mint and a honey lime dressing
For a lighter option with grilled watermelon, try the watermelon feta salad with mint and a honey lime dressing. This salad combines the sweetness of grilled watermelon with the saltiness of feta cheese and the freshness of mint. The honey lime dressing adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, bringing all the flavors together. It’s a refreshing and vibrant salad that is perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish for any grilled meal.
Watermelon gazpacho for a refreshing twist
Another unique way to enjoy grilled watermelon is to use it as a base for a refreshing gazpacho. Watermelon gazpacho is a chilled soup that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of tomatoes and the freshness of herbs. It’s a fantastic option for a light and cooling dish on a hot summer day. The grilled watermelon adds a smoky depth to the gazpacho, taking it to a whole new level of deliciousness. This unique twist on a classic dish is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Classic jalapeno poppers wrapped in bacon and stuffed with cream cheese
Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are an irresistible appetizer that combines the heat of jalapenos, the creaminess of cream cheese, and the smoky goodness of bacon. These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. The bacon adds a crispy texture, while the cream cheese mellows out the heat of the jalapenos. They are easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any barbecue or gathering.
Jalapeno poppers filled with cheddar and wrapped in prosciutto
For a twist on the classic bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers, try filling the jalapenos with cheddar cheese and wrapping them in prosciutto. The sharpness of cheddar cheese pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the jalapenos, while the prosciutto adds a salty and savory element. These poppers are packed with flavor and offer a sophisticated twist on a favorite appetizer. They are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Grilled jalapeno popper boats with a spicy sausage filling
For a heartier version of jalapeno poppers, try the grilled jalapeno popper boats with a spicy sausage filling. These poppers are made by halving and hollowing out the jalapenos, then filling them with a mixture of spicy sausage, cream cheese, and seasonings. The poppers are then grilled until the jalapenos are tender and the filling is melted and bubbly. The combination of spicy sausage and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that is sure to satisfy any craving for heat and indulgence.
BBQ Mac and Cheese
Smoky BBQ mac and cheese with pulled pork
BBQ mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the smoky flavors of barbecue. This dish takes the classic mac and cheese and elevates it to new heights by adding tender pulled pork and a smoky BBQ sauce. The combination of the cheesy pasta, the tender meat, and the tangy sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any barbecue or gathering. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Grilled mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping
For a twist on classic mac and cheese, try grilling it with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Grilled mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping takes this comfort food to the next level by adding a crunchy and flavorful crust. The breadcrumbs toast on the grill, creating a satisfying texture contrast to the creamy and cheesy pasta. It’s a simple but delicious twist on a beloved dish that will be a hit with both kids and adults.
Spicy jalapeno mac and cheese with a BBQ drizzle
For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their mac and cheese, spicy jalapeno mac and cheese with a BBQ drizzle is the perfect option. This mac and cheese recipe is kicked up a notch with the addition of chopped jalapenos, giving it a spicy and flavorful punch. The BBQ drizzle adds a smoky and tangy element that complements the heat of the jalapenos. This dish is sure to be a crowd favorite, combining the best of both worlds – spice and comfort.
In conclusion, these ten unique barbecue side dishes offer a wide range of flavors and textures to complement any grilled main course. From the tangy elote to the smoky baked beans, and from the refreshing quinoa salad to the indulgent BBQ mac and cheese, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to experience a barbecue feast like no other!