Start your summer events right with a menu that enhances your BBQ. You’ll find everything from beloved potato salads to fresh watermelon salads here. They’re perfect for every taste and diet. These sides will make your BBQs memorable by being both tasty and beautiful.
You can choose from many sides like colorful Mango Salad or creamy Ranch Slaw. Corn Muffins go well with savory meats. Seafood lovers will enjoy Shrimp Pasta Salad, with its mix of crunchy veggies and tender shrimp. Don’t miss the Cornbread Salad, a mix of cornbread, beans, and more that shines at any event.
Cowboy Caviar is a filling choice with beans, veggies, and a kick of jalapeño. Looking for something different? Try Esquites, a Mexican salad with charred corn, or enjoy Grilled Veggie Skewers. For flavors that pop, go for Dill Pickle Deviled Eggs or crispy Hushpuppies.
Classic Potato Salad for Cookouts
Classic Potato Salad is a must-have at summer cookouts. It combines creamy texture and comforting taste perfectly. Hot potatoes mixed with vinegar soak up the flavors, creating a delicious side dish. It goes great with grilled foods.
Making this Classic Potato Salad is simple. It blends Red Bliss or Yukon Gold potatoes with fresh ingredients. This brings the taste of summer to each bite.
Item | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|
Classic Potato Salad (¾ cup) | 220 | $2.50 |
Dill Pickle Spear (per serving) | 4 | $0.15 |
Chopped Celery (per serving) | 6 | $0.20 |
Mayonnaise (1 tbsp) | 90 | $0.10 |
Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp) | 15 | $0.05 |
Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp) | 3 | $0.05 |
Scallions (1 stalk) | 5 | $0.30 |
Hard-boiled eggs (1 egg) | 68 | $0.25 |
Red Bliss Potatoes (1 lb) | 357 | $1.50 |
Parsley (2 tbsp) | 2 | $0.10 |
Salt (1 tsp) | 0 | $0.05 |
Black Pepper (1 tsp) | 6 | $0.05 |
Sweet Pickle Relish (1 tbsp) | 20 | $0.12 |
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) | 4 | $0.08 |
Sugar (1 tsp) | 16 | $0.02 |
Start by boiling 2 pounds of potatoes until they’re soft, about 10 minutes. After boiling, let them cool for 15 minutes. While cooling, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Add celery, scallions, and herbs. Combine with the potatoes and eggs.
This potato salad is a classic that you can make ahead and chill. It’s not only tasty but also nutritious, with 220 calories per ¾ cup serving. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s perfect with your favorite barbecue dishes.
Refreshing Watermelon Salad
A Refreshing Watermelon Salad screams summer. It’s inspired by a recipe from Jacques Pépin. The salad combines juicy watermelon, fresh mint, and a savory mix of olives and feta cheese. It’s perfect as a cookout side dish for many guests. Prepping is quick, taking only 15 minutes. It also offers a delightful balance of flavors that are perfect for a hot day.
Watermelon helps keep you hydrated and is full of antioxidants and nutrients. Adding Persian cucumbers, which are 4 to 6 inches long, boosts the salad with vitamins A and K and fiber. They’re chosen for their thin, seedless nature. A tangy lime dressing made with lime, extra-virgin olive oil, and sea salt brings all the flavors together. You can also add jalapeño for a spicy kick. If you prefer, goat cheese can replace feta cheese.
Item Name | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|
Watermelon, 5 cups | 225 | $3.00 |
English Cucumber, 1 heaping cup | 16 | $1.00 |
Red Onion, 1/4 cup thinly sliced | 16 | $0.30 |
Feta Cheese, 1/3 cup crumbled | 100 | $1.50 |
Avocado, 1 cubed | 240 | $1.50 |
Fresh Mint or Basil, 1/3 cup torn | 2 | $0.50 |
Jalapeño or Serrano Pepper, 1/2 (optional) | 8 | $0.20 |
Extra-virgin Olive Oil, 2 tablespoons (dressing) | 239 | $0.50 |
Fresh Lime Juice, 3 tablespoons (dressing) | 11 | $0.75 |
Sea Salt, 1/4 teaspoon (dressing) | 0 | $0.05 |
Garlic, 1/2 clove minced (dressing) | 2 | $0.10 |
This watermelon salad is a hit at summer cookouts. It’s fruity and light, perfect with grilled dishes. It works well for barbecues, picnics, or large gatherings. The recipe has a high rating of 4.99 out of 5 from 144 votes. This shows its broad appeal among food lovers.
Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
---|---|---|---|
Watermelon | Yes | Yes | None |
English Cucumber | Yes | Yes | None |
Red Onion | Yes | Yes | None |
Feta Cheese | No | Yes | Dairy |
Avocado | Yes | Yes | None |
Fresh Mint or Basil | Yes | Yes | None |
Jalapeño or Serrano Pepper | Yes | Yes | None |
Extra-virgin Olive Oil | Yes | Yes | None |
Fresh Lime Juice | Yes | Yes | None |
Sea Salt | Yes | Yes | None |
Garlic | Yes | Yes | None |
About 35% of Americans pick fruit salads as a favorite summer side dish. Nearly 70% view watermelon as essential for picnics. Try this refreshing recipe at your next gathering and see why it’s so popular.
Perfect Corn on the Cob
Nothing beats having corn on the cob at barbecues and picnics. It’s a favorite side dish, especially with burgers. In this article, we share two tasty ways to make it: classic grilled corn and Elote, or Mexican Street Corn.
Grilled Corn Recipe
Grilled corn is a must-have at southern gatherings. To make this delicious side, just follow our simple recipe:
- Preparation: Soak the corn in cold water for 10 minutes. This keeps the husks from burning on the grill.
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes.
- Method: Cook on medium-high heat (450°F to 475°F), turning it every 3 to 5 minutes.
- Serving Size: 4 to 8 ears of corn.
- Seasoning: Apply olive oil and butter, then sprinkle with salt for taste.
- Garnish: Enhance the flavor with compound butter, like cilantro lime or garlic.
- Nutrition per serving: 128 calories, 5.9g total fat, 19.1g carbohydrates, 3.3g protein, 248.4mg sodium.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote adds exciting flavors to your menu. It combines spice and creaminess, making it a perfect side dish.
- Ingredients: 32 ounces of frozen whole-kernel corn, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons sugar, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 1/2 teaspoons ancho chile powder, 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, and optional 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
- Serving Size: Enough for 8 people, with 1/2 cup servings.
- Method:
- Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the corn and cook it until it’s slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix in sugar and keep cooking for 3 more minutes.
- Take it off the heat and mix in mayonnaise, ancho chile powder, and cilantro.
- Finish with Cotija cheese and a bit of cayenne pepper, if you like.
- Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Nutrition per serving: 128 calories, 5.9g total fat, 19.1g carbohydrates, 3.3g protein, 248.4mg sodium.
Item Name | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|
Grilled Corn with Olive Oil | 128 | $3.99 |
Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn | 140 | $4.50 |
Garlic Butter Grilled Corn | 145 | $4.75 |
Cotija Cheese Elote | 150 | $5.00 |
Spicy Ancho Chile Elote | 155 | $5.25 |
Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
---|---|---|---|
Grilled Corn with Olive Oil | Yes | Yes | None |
Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn | Yes | Yes | None |
Garlic Butter Grilled Corn | Yes | Yes | None |
Cotija Cheese Elote | Yes | Yes | Dairy |
Spicy Ancho Chile Elote | Yes | Yes | None |
Delicious Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad is loved by many, making it a top pick at barbecue events. We’ll look at a Classic Macaroni Salad and a spicy Sriracha Macaroni Salad. Each has unique tastes for everyone at your party.
Classic Macaroni Salad Recipe
The Classic Macaroni Salad is a favorite. It matches any barbecue meal. It has al dente pasta, creamy dressing, pickles, hard-boiled eggs, and mayonnaise. It’s a mix of flavors and textures that everyone loves.
Item Name | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|
Classic Macaroni Salad | 250 | $4.99 |
Hard-boiled Eggs (6) | 420 | $2.99 |
Pickles (1 cup) | 20 | $1.50 |
Mayonnaise (1 cup) | 1440 | $3.49 |
Dijon Mustard (2 tbsp) | 30 | $1.00 |
Sriracha Macaroni Salad
If you like a little spice, try the Sriracha Macaroni Salad. It’s made with crunchy dill pickles and a tangy Sriracha dressing. This salad brings a bold, fiery taste that’s perfect for any barbecue.
Item Name | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|
Sriracha Macaroni Salad | 270 | $5.49 |
Dill Pickles (1 cup) | 22 | $1.60 |
Sriracha Sauce (1/4 cup) | 75 | $1.50 |
Chopped Eggs (2) | 140 | $2.00 |
Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup) | 25 | $3.00 |
Succulent BBQ Baked Beans
BBQ Baked Beans are a must for any Southern cookout. They come in traditional and sweet and spicy versions. These beans are the essence of comfort food with deep flavors. They’re the perfect match for cookout sides with hot dogs.
Traditional Baked Beans Recipe
The traditional baked beans give a rich, smoky taste to BBQs. You need little prep time for this recipe. It’s great for when you need a quick meal.
Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Ground Beef | 1/2 lb | 200 kcal | $4.99 |
Ground Maple Pork Sausage | 1/2 lb | 250 kcal | $3.99 |
Canned Baked Beans | 2 (28 oz each) | 560 kcal | $5.00 |
BBQ Sauce | 1 cup | 100 kcal | $2.50 |
Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup | 200 kcal | $1.00 |
Apple Cider Vinegar | 1/4 cup | 10 kcal | $1.25 |
Yellow Mustard | 1 tbsp | 3 kcal | $0.50 |
Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tbsp | 5 kcal | $0.50 |
Seasoning and Spices | Various | 12 kcal | $0.75 |
Bake beans at 350°F for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. This makes them just right. Keep leftovers in the fridge for four days or freeze up to three months.
Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans
The sweet and spicy version brings new flavors with a kick. This mix is a hit, especially with hot dogs. It adds a juicy, sweet, and tangy taste to BBQs.
Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
---|---|---|---|
Ground Beef | Yes | Yes | None |
Ground Maple Pork Sausage | No | Yes | None |
Canned Baked Beans | No | No | None |
BBQ Sauce | No | Depends on Brand | None |
Brown Sugar | No | Yes | None |
Apple Cider Vinegar | Yes | Yes | None |
Yellow Mustard | Yes | Yes | None |
Worcestershire Sauce | No | No | Depends on Brand |
Seasoning and Spices | Yes | Yes | Depends on Blend |
This version has the same base but with extra spices for more flavor. It features everything from sweet chili to sriracha. These additions make it a memorable part of Southern cookouts.
Stylish Shrimp Pasta Salad
The Stylish Shrimp Pasta Salad is a hit at cookouts. It combines buttery shrimp, crisp veggies, and pasta in a creamy sauce. This mix isn’t just tasty; it also has a pleasing texture. Including shrimp pasta salad in your menu will definitely upgrade your cookout.
Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 363.2 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 26.8 g |
Protein | 16.7 g |
Fat | 21.2 g |
Saturated Fat | 3.2 g |
Cholesterol | 120.5 mg |
Sodium | 498.9 mg |
Fiber | 2.6 g |
Sugar | 2.4 g |
This shrimp pasta salad is a top pick for easy cookout sides. Each serving packs good protein and fiber. Start with 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, then boil the shrimp for 2-3 minutes.
Quickly cool the shrimp in an ice bath for 10 minutes. For the dressing, mix ranch and Italian dressings with lemon juice, white vinegar, and fresh dill. Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to combine the flavors. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
This shrimp pasta salad brings a touch of luxury to easy cookout sides. Your guests will be both impressed and delighted.
Southern Cookout Side Dishes
Get the taste of the South with Succotash, Grilled Okra, and Hushpuppies. They’re perfect for big gatherings. With their rich flavors, they highlight the South’s culinary diversity.
Succotash
Succotash brings together summer veggies like corn, tomatoes, and lima beans. This colorful mix is not only pretty but healthy too. It’s great for feeding a lot of people and takes just 20 minutes to prepare.
Grilled Okra
Enjoy the smoky flavor of Grilled Okra at your cookout. It’s easy to make and adds a crispy touch to your meal. In less than 10 minutes, Okra turns into a must-have side dish.
Hushpuppies
Hushpuppies are little cornbread bites that are golden and crispy. They are great with seafood or BBQ dishes. You can easily mix and fry them, making them a simple yet beloved side dish.
Item Name | Total Time | Servings | Calories | Fat | Sodium | Carbohydrates | Protein |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Succotash | 20 min | 8 servings | 112 calories per 3/4 cup | 4g | 78mg | 16g (5g sugars, 4g fiber) | 3g |
Grilled Okra | 10 min | 6 servings | 78 calories per 3/4 cup | 5g | 32mg | 7g (1g sugars, 3g fiber) | 2g |
Hushpuppies | 30 min | 10 servings | 142 calories per piece | 7g | 285mg | 18g (3g sugars, 1g fiber) | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are these dishes suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, both Succotash and Grilled Okra are good for vegetarians. You can make Hushpuppies vegetarian-friendly by not using animal fat.
Q2: How can I add more flavor to these dishes?
A: Fresh herbs, spices, and good ingredients boost flavor. For example, smoked paprika can make Grilled Okra taste better. Heirloom tomatoes improve Succotash’s flavor.
Q3: Can these dishes be prepared in advance?
A: You can make Succotash and Hushpuppies ahead of time. However, it’s best to grill Okra right before serving.
Q4: What are some complementary dishes to serve with these?
A: They go well with BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or pulled pork. They also match with Southern favorites like collard greens or mac and cheese.
Q5: Are there any gluten-free options among these?
A: Succotash and Grilled Okra are naturally free of gluten. Use gluten-free cornmeal for gluten-free Hushpuppies.
Flavorful Cowboy Caviar
Cowboy Caviar is a favorite at cookouts. It mixes the freshness of a salad with salsa’s fullness. This dish has black-eyed peas, black beans, sweet corn, and colorful veggies. It’s both pretty and good for you, perfect for any party.
This cowboy caviar takes only 20 minutes to make. It’s great if you need something tasty and quick. The recipe uses canned black beans and black-eyed peas. This mix brings great flavor and texture to your table.
It’s also good for you. One serving has 214 calories and provides protein, carbs, and fat. Plus, it’s low in sodium but high in fiber. This makes it a smart choice among other dishes.
Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Black Beans | 15 oz can | 110 | $1 |
Black-Eyed Peas | 15 oz can | 98 | $1 |
Frozen Corn Kernels | 1 ½ cups | 110 | $1.5 |
Red Bell Pepper | ½ cup diced | 26 | $0.7 |
Orange Bell Pepper | ½ cup diced | 26 | $0.7 |
Olive Oil | ⅓ cup | 629 | $1.5 |
Fresh Lime Juice | 2 tbsp | 8 | $0.5 |
Red Wine Vinegar | 2 tbsp | 6 | $0.4 |
Red Onion | ⅓ cup diced | 22 | $0.3 |
Vitamin A | 585 IU | 0 | 0 |
Vitamin C | 22.9mg | 0 | 0 |
Calcium | 29mg | 0 | 0 |
Iron | 2.1mg | 0 | 0 |
With 13 different ingredients, cowboy caviar is full of flavor. The dressing, with olive oil, lime juice, and red wine vinegar, adds a zesty kick. It brightens your meal and pleases everyone with its fresh and filling taste.
This dish is perfect for any event, from laid-back barbecues to fancy dinners. It’s loved by many, with a near-perfect rating from over 1,100 reviews. Its healthy ingredients make cowboy caviar a standout choice. Enjoy it with tortilla chips for an extra yummy crunch.
This recipe is both easy and packed with great flavors. Make your next cookout memorable with it.
Creamy Ranch Slaw
Change how you think about slaw with this *Creamy Ranch Slaw.* It mixes veggies and carrots with homemade ranch dressing. This side dish adds a creamy, cooling touch to your smoked meats at summer BBQs. It makes your meals more flavorful.
This slaw recipe combines crisp cabbage, fresh carrots, and rich ranch dressing. It’s perfect for *summer cookouts.* It’s easy to make – just mix veggies, make the dressing, and combine them. Your guests will love it and ask for more.
Item Name | Calories | Price |
---|---|---|
Creamy Ranch Slaw | 150 | $3.50 |
Classic Potato Salad | 240 | $4.00 |
Watermelon Salad | 80 | $3.00 |
Grilled Corn on the Cob | 140 | $2.75 |
Elote (Mexican Street Corn) | 215 | $3.25 |
Macaroni Salad | 300 | $4.50 |
Sriracha Macaroni Salad | 320 | $4.75 |
BBQ Baked Beans | 180 | $3.25 |
Southern Succotash | 150 | $3.60 |
Grilled Okra | 120 | $2.95 |
Hushpuppies | 200 | $3.40 |
Shrimp Pasta Salad | 220 | $4.30 |
Flavorful Cowboy Caviar | 160 | $3.90 |
Mediterranean Pasta Salad | 250 | $4.00 |
Avocado Salad | 200 | $3.85 |
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Looking for Mediterranean side dishes that bring a touch of Europe? Try the Mediterranean Pasta Salad. It’s a mix of colorful ingredients and bold flavors. It’s perfect for a healthy meal at your next cookout.
The blend of smoked mozzarella, tangy giardiniera, and bold romesco sauce offers a taste adventure. Follow this recipe to make a fantastic dish:
Item Name | Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Total Fat |
---|---|---|---|---|
12 ounces of Pasta | 271 kcal | 28 g | 6 g | 15 g |
1 cup Grape Tomatoes | 22 kcal | 5 g | 1 g | 0 g |
1 cup Cucumbers | 16 kcal | 4 g | 1 g | 0 g |
¼ cup Red Onion | 11 kcal | 3 g | 0 g | 0 g |
1 cup Baby Spinach | 7 kcal | 1 g | 1 g | 0 g |
½ cup Green Olives | 62 kcal | 6 g | 0 g | 5 g |
½ cup Black Olives | 70 kcal | 6 g | 0 g | 7 g |
½ cup Feta Cheese | 50 kcal | 1 g | 4 g | 4 g |
½ to ¾ cup Greek Salad Dressing | 88 kcal | 2 g | 0 g | 9 g |
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad can be adapted for any diet. Choose gluten-free pasta or keto-friendly ingredients if needed. Check out the dietary info below:
Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens |
---|---|---|---|
Pasta | No | Yes, if gluten-free pasta used | May contain gluten |
Grape Tomatoes | Yes | Yes | None |
Cucumbers | Yes | Yes | None |
Red Onion | Yes | Yes | None |
Baby Spinach | Yes | Yes | None |
Green Olives | Yes | Yes | None |
Black Olives | Yes | Yes | None |
Feta Cheese | Yes | Yes | Dairy |
Greek Salad Dressing | Yes | Yes | None |
Adding Mediterranean side dishes to your cookout offers a tasty change. They’re healthy cookout sides your guests will love. Prepare and marinate up to three days ahead for even more flavor.
Serving Mediterranean Pasta Salad at your next event will show your creativity. Everyone will enjoy your health-conscious, delicious dish.
Amazing Avocado Salad
Experience the lush creaminess of ripe avocados blended with crisp fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. They’re all brought to life with a zesty salsa verde dressing. It’s ideal for anyone looking to enjoy their meal without guilt. You can whip it up for 4 to 6 people in just about 15 minutes. This makes it a top pick for your next outdoor meal.
Getting the Amazing Avocado Salad ready takes just about 15 minutes from start to finish. This shows how quickly you can make something delicious without spending hours cooking. The dressing combines fresh lime juice and avocado oil for a burst of flavor but stays healthy. Honey adds a natural sweetness that makes this salad stand out.
This salad requires 2 firm-ripe avocados, which are full of nutrients. Add in ½ English cucumber, ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, and a little jalapeño pepper for some heat. Don’t forget the ⅓ cup diced red onion. You might also sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top if you like. Here’s a quick look at what nutrients you get from each serving.
Nutrition Element | Amount Per Serving | % Daily Value |
---|---|---|
Calories | 214 | |
Calories from Fat | 162 | |
Total Fat | 18g | 28% |
Saturated Fat | 3g | 19% |
Sodium | 17mg | 1% |
Potassium | 661mg | 19% |
Total Carbohydrates | 13g | 4% |
Dietary Fiber | 6g | 25% |
Total Sugars | 5g | 6% |
Protein | 3g | 6% |
Vitamin A | 1663 IU | 33% |
Vitamin C | 27mg | 33% |
Calcium | 37mg | 4% |
Iron | 1mg | 6% |
Looking for healthy options for your cookout? The Amazing Avocado Salad is your go-to. Its quick preparation and lively ingredients make it an ideal dish. It’s perfect for any outdoor dining occasion.
Conclusion
Getting your cookout menu ready for BBQs and picnics is exciting. You have top side dishes to wow your guests. Think about the cozy macaroni salad or the juicy watermelon salad. Each one adds a special flavor that goes well with your grilled meals.
A savory BBQ baked beans dish or a fancy shrimp pasta salad waits to be part of your feast. You’re set to offer a memorable eating joy.
Adding options like crispy corn on the cob and creamy ranch slaw makes everyone happy. It suits different tastes and needs. We’ve also got nutritional info and allergen details for easy choices. And with prices in mind, amazing taste comes without a big cost. Cookout’s menu shows this well.
Your cookout shines not just with grilled dishes but with fantastic sides. Our guide gives you everything to throw a top-notch, tasty cookout. Savor the food, enjoy your friends, and know your menu is a hit.
FAQ
What are some of the best cookout side dishes to complement grilled mains?
A: Classic Potato Salad, Refreshing Watermelon Salad, and Grilled Corn are top picks. Cowboy Caviar and BBQ Baked Beans add great flavors and textures. They all match well with grilled meats.
Are there easy cookout sides recipes for beginners?
Definitely! Beginners love making Classic Potato Salad, Grilled Corn, and Cowboy Caviar. These recipes are simple to follow. They require basic ingredients, making cooking fun and easy.
What are some cookout sides for a crowd?
For big gatherings, Refreshing Watermelon Salad, Grilled Okra, and BBQ Baked Beans are perfect. They can be made in large quantities easily. This means everyone can enjoy these tasty sides.
Are there any cookout side dishes suitable for hot dogs?
A: BBQ Baked Beans (in Traditional and Sweet and Spicy types) and Creamy Ranch Slaw are great with hot dogs. They offer a nice mix of sweet, savory, and creamy tastes.
How can I make healthier cookout sides?
For healthier sides, try Amazing Avocado Salad and Mediterranean Pasta Salad. These use fresh veggies and healthier dressings. They’re both nutritious and tasty.
What are some southern cookout side dishes?
Southern favorites include Hushpuppies, Grilled Okra, and Succotash. They bring authentic Southern flavors. Perfect for adding a regional touch to your menu.