Get ready to elevate your summer cookouts with these sizzling grilled side dishes! Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or heading to a local park for a picnic, these mouthwatering recipes will add a burst of flavors and textures to your outdoor feasts. From charred vegetables and cheesy corn on the cob to smoky grilled potatoes and tangy fruit skewers, these dishes are sure to impress your family and friends. So grab your tongs, stock up on fresh produce, and prepare to take your summer cookouts to a whole new level!
Grilled Vegetables
Marinated Portobello Mushrooms
When it comes to grilled vegetables, one delicious option is marinated portobello mushrooms. These meaty mushrooms are perfect for grilling and can be marinated in your favorite flavors before hitting the grill. Whether you choose a simple marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs or opt for a more complex mix of flavors, marinated portobello mushrooms are sure to be a hit at your summer cookouts. The marinade helps to enhance the natural earthy flavor of the mushrooms and gives them a juicy and tender texture when grilled.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
No summer cookout is complete without a classic side dish like grilled corn on the cob. This simple yet flavorful dish is a crowd pleaser and can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike. The beauty of grilled corn on the cob is that it allows the natural sweetness of the corn to shine through, and the grilling process gives it a smoky and slightly charred flavor. You can choose to grill the corn with the husks on for a more steamed effect or remove the husks and grill it directly for a more charred and caramelized flavor. Serve it with a sprinkle of salt, a pat of butter, and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Grilled Asparagus Spears
If you’re looking for a light and healthy grilled side dish, grilled asparagus spears are the way to go. Asparagus is rich in vitamins and minerals, and grilling it brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delightful smoky flavor. To prepare grilled asparagus, simply toss the spears in some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill them until tender and slightly charred. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle some shredded Parmesan cheese on top for an extra pop of flavor. Grilled asparagus spears are not only delicious but also make for an elegant and colorful addition to your summer cookout spread.
Stuffed Peppers
Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers
When it comes to stuffed peppers, grilling them takes the dish to a whole new level. Grilled stuffed bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The vibrant bell peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of rice, vegetables, and proteins, and then grilled to perfection. The heat from the grill gives the peppers a slightly smoky flavor and adds a nice char to the edges. The filling options for grilled stuffed bell peppers are endless, from vegetarian options like quinoa and black bean fillings to meat lovers’ favorites like ground beef and cheese. Whichever filling you choose, these grilled stuffed bell peppers are sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Cheesy Stuffed Poblano Peppers
For a spicier twist on stuffed peppers, try grilling cheesy stuffed poblano peppers. Poblano peppers have a mild to medium level of heat and a slightly sweet and smoky flavor. When they are stuffed with a rich and creamy cheese filling and grilled, the result is a mouthwatering dish that will delight your taste buds. The heat from the grill adds a nice char to the poblano peppers, intensifying their flavor and giving them a touch of smokiness. These cheesy stuffed poblano peppers are perfect as a side dish or even as a main course for a vegetarian-friendly meal. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for an extra burst of flavor.
Grilled Potato Recipes
Grilled Potato Wedges
Potatoes are a staple at any cookout, and grilled potato wedges are a great way to take this classic side dish to the next level. These crispy and flavorful wedges are easy to make and pair well with any grilled main dish. To prepare grilled potato wedges, start by parboiling the potatoes until they are slightly tender. Then, toss them in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Grill the wedges until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Loaded Grilled Potato Skins
For a more indulgent grilled potato side dish, try making loaded grilled potato skins. These crispy potato skins are filled with a delicious combination of melted cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, and sour cream. Grilling the potato skins adds a smoky flavor and gives them a nice charred texture. To make loaded grilled potato skins, start by baking the potatoes until they are tender. Then, cut them in half and scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato. Brush the skins with olive oil and grill them until they are crispy. Fill the potato skins with the cheese, bacon, and green onion mixture and grill them again until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve them hot with a dollop of sour cream for a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish.
Grilled Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re a fan of sweet potatoes, you’ll love grilled sweet potato fries. These fries are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried ones, and grilling them adds a delicious smoky flavor. To make grilled sweet potato fries, start by cutting the sweet potatoes into wedges or sticks. Toss them in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, such as paprika or garlic powder. Grill the sweet potato fries until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or aioli. These grilled sweet potato fries make for a tasty and guilt-free side dish that everyone will enjoy.
Grilled Fruit Sides
Grilled Pineapple Slices
Grilled pineapple slices are a delightful and refreshing side dish that adds a tropical touch to your summer cookout. The heat from the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the pineapple, giving it a sweet and slightly charred flavor. To prepare grilled pineapple slices, simply slice a fresh pineapple into rings or spears and grill them until they have nice grill marks and are slightly caramelized. You can serve the grilled pineapple as is or pair it with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of honey for a decadent dessert.
Citrus Grilled Watermelon
Grilling watermelon may sound unusual, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. Citrus grilled watermelon is a unique and refreshing side dish that will surprise and delight your taste buds. The heat from the grill intensifies the watermelon’s natural sweetness and adds a hint of smokiness. To make citrus grilled watermelon, simply slice fresh watermelon into thick wedges and brush them with a mixture of citrus juices, such as orange or lime, and a touch of honey. Grill the watermelon wedges until they have nice grill marks and are slightly caramelized. Serve them as a light and refreshing side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone snack on a hot summer day.
Grilled Salad Options
Grilled Caesar Salad
Take your salad game to the next level with grilled Caesar salad. Grilling the romaine lettuce gives it a slightly smoky flavor and adds a pleasant char to the edges. To make grilled Caesar salad, start by slicing a head of romaine lettuce in half lengthwise, keeping the core intact. Brush the cut side of the romaine with olive oil and sprinkle it with salt and pepper. Grill the romaine cut side down until it is slightly charred. Serve the grilled romaine with a drizzle of Caesar dressing, some grated Parmesan cheese, and crispy croutons for a delicious and unique twist on the classic Caesar salad.
Grilled Caprese Salad
If you’re a fan of the classic Caprese salad, you’ll love the grilled version. Grilling the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese adds a wonderful smoky flavor and brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes. To make grilled Caprese salad, start by slicing fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into thick slices. Brush them with olive oil and grill them until they have nice grill marks and are slightly softened. Layer the grilled tomatoes and mozzarella on a platter, and top them with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This grilled Caprese salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.
Grilled Bread and Dip
Grilled Garlic Bread
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic bread grilling on a hot summer day. Grilled garlic bread is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of grilled mains. To make grilled garlic bread, start by slicing a baguette or loaf of bread into thick slices. Brush each slice with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs, such as parsley or basil. Grill the bread slices until they are toasted and have nice grill marks. Serve them hot and enjoy the buttery, garlicky goodness.
Grilled Bread with Tomato and Basil Dip
For a refreshing and flavorful dip to accompany your grilled bread, try making a tomato and basil dip. This Mediterranean-inspired dip is made with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Grilling the tomatoes adds a smoky and slightly charred flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the dip. To make the tomato and basil dip, simply grill the tomatoes until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Then, combine them with the rest of the ingredients in a food processor or blender and pulse until smooth. Serve the dip with grilled bread for a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Grilled Cheese Options
Grilled Queso Blanco
If you’re a cheese lover, grilled queso blanco is a must-try side dish. Queso blanco, which translates to “white cheese,” is a crumbly and mild Mexican cheese that melts beautifully when grilled. To make grilled queso blanco, simply slice the cheese into thick squares or rectangles and grill them until they are melted and slightly golden brown. Serve the grilled queso blanco with tortilla chips, salsa, and guacamole for a delicious and cheesy appetizer that will please cheese enthusiasts.
Grilled Halloumi Skewers
Grilled halloumi skewers are a tasty and unique option for cheese lovers. Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese with a high melting point, making it perfect for grilling. The heat of the grill gives the cheese a nice char and enhances its salty and tangy flavor. To make grilled halloumi skewers, simply cube the cheese and thread it onto skewers. Grill the skewers until the halloumi is crispy and charred on the outside. Serve the grilled halloumi skewers with a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of honey for a delightful combination of flavors.
Grilled Mushrooms
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option for your summer cookout, grilled portobello mushroom burgers are a delicious and satisfying choice. Portobello mushrooms have a meaty and robust flavor that makes them a great substitute for burgers. To prepare grilled portobello mushroom burgers, start by marinating the mushrooms in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Grill the mushrooms until they are tender and slightly charred. Serve the grilled portobello mushrooms on toasted buns with your favorite burger toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and cheese. These flavorful burgers are sure to impress both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms
Grilled stuffed mushrooms are a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish that will impress your guests. The combination of meaty mushrooms and savory fillings makes for a deliciously satisfying bite. To make grilled stuffed mushrooms, start by removing the stems from large mushroom caps and filling the caps with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and spices. Grill the stuffed mushrooms until the filling is golden brown and the mushrooms are tender. Serve them hot as a tasty and elegant addition to your summer cookout menu.
Grilled Seafood Sides
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a delightful and versatile seafood side dish that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping for salads or tacos. The succulent shrimp are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices, and then grilled to perfection. The heat from the grill gives the shrimp a nice smoky flavor and enhances their natural sweetness. Serve the grilled shrimp skewers with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a refreshing and flavorful dish.
Grilled Lobster Tails
For a truly indulgent and elegant seafood side dish, look no further than grilled lobster tails. Grilling lobster tails gives them a complex and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet and tender meat. To grill lobster tails, start by splitting the tails in half lengthwise and brushing them with melted butter. Grill the lobster tails shell side down until the meat is opaque and slightly charred. Serve the grilled lobster tails with melted butter, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs for a luxurious and mouthwatering dish that will wow your guests.
Grilled Mexican Side Dishes
Grilled Mexican Street Corn
Grilled Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is a must-have side dish for any summer cookout. Sweet and juicy corn on the cob is grilled until slightly charred and then slathered with a delicious mixture of mayonnaise, crema or sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, and crumbled cotija cheese. The combination of flavors is tangy, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying. To serve, sprinkle some extra cheese and cilantro on top, and squeeze some fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor. Grilled Mexican street corn is the perfect combination of sweet, creamy, and savory that will transport you to the streets of Mexico with every bite.
Grilled Stuffed Jalapenos
For a spicy and flavorful side dish, consider making grilled stuffed jalapenos. These bite-sized jalapeno peppers are filled with a creamy cheese mixture and then grilled until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The heat from the grill tames the spiciness of the jalapenos and adds a smoky flavor to the dish. To make grilled stuffed jalapenos, start by cutting the jalapenos in half and removing the seeds and membranes. Fill each jalapeno half with a mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and your favorite herbs and spices. Grill the stuffed jalapenos until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Serve them hot as a delicious and fiery side dish or appetizer.
In conclusion, these sizzling grilled side dishes are a fantastic addition to any summer cookout. From marinated portobello mushrooms and grilled corn on the cob to stuffed peppers and grilled potatoes, there are plenty of flavors and options to explore. Experiment with grilled fruit sides like pineapple slices and citrus grilled watermelon, or try out grilled salad options such as grilled Caesar salad and grilled Caprese salad. For bread lovers, grilled garlic bread and grilled bread with tomato and basil dip are must-tries. Cheese enthusiasts will love grilled queso blanco and grilled halloumi skewers, while mushroom lovers can enjoy grilled portobello mushroom burgers and grilled stuffed mushrooms. Seafood lovers can indulge in grilled shrimp skewers and grilled lobster tails, and those looking for a Mexican twist can savor grilled Mexican street corn and grilled stuffed jalapenos. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with these mouthwatering grilled side dishes that are perfect for summer cookouts.