30+ Easy BBQ Side Dishes For Your Next Cookout
There’s nothing quite like a backyard BBQ to bring friends and family together during summer. But while the main event—the sizzling meats and smoky flavors—may steal the spotlight, it’s the side dishes that truly complete the experience. That’s why I’ve searched for the best easy BBQ side dish recipes.
From refreshing salads like healthy Greek pasta salad and zesty Mexican street corn salad to comforting classics like creamy dill red potato salad and the best slow cooker baked beans, these recipes are designed to be crowd-pleasers.
Imagine the crunch of grilled corn salad paired with succulent ribs, or the tanginess of a cucumber macaroni salad complementing your favorite burgers. Whether you’re looking for light and veggie-packed options or hearty sides that will satisfy, this list has something for everyone.
So, grab your apron and let’s find your new favorite easy BBQ side dish!
Greek pasta salad
This healthy Greek pasta salad is the ideal side dish for your BBQ.
Bursting with colorful veggies like cucumber, grape tomatoes, and bell peppers, it adds a refreshing, crunchy element to your meal. Tossed in a zesty dressing with feta and Kalamata olives, each bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a stress-free option for summer gatherings.
Serve it chilled for a light, satisfying dish that complements grilled favorites perfectly.
We love: Healthy Greek Pasta Salad (by Clean & Delicious)
Creamy dill red potato salad
This classic dill red potato salad is a must-have for any barbecue.
The combination of tender red potatoes, zesty lemon juice, and fresh dill brings a burst of flavor that complements grilled meats perfectly. Tossing in Greek yogurt and sour cream creates a rich, creamy dressing without being overly heavy.
Letting the salad sit allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delightful. It’s a great make-ahead side dish!
We love: Creamy Dill Red Potato Salad (by Non-Guilty Pleasures)
German potato salad
What’s better than potato salad? Potato salad with crispy bacon!
The tangy vinegar-mustard dressing brings a refreshing zing, making each bite satisfying. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, which adds versatility to your next outdoor gathering. Toss in fresh parsley and scallions for a pop of color and flavor.
This crowd-pleaser pairs beautifully with grilled meats and is sure to disappear quickly from the table.
We love: Best German Potato Salad Recipe (by Lemon Blossoms)
Chicken caesar pasta salad
This chicken Caesar pasta salad is a standout side dish for any BBQ.
Tender pasta, crisp Romaine, and juicy chicken combines familiar flavors in a delightful way. The homemade dressing, packed with garlic and tang, ties everything together beautifully. Toss in crunchy croutons and fresh veggies for a satisfying crunch.
Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, this salad is a delicious, make-ahead option that always steals the spotlight.
We love: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe (by Carlsbad Cravings)
Mexican street corn potato salad
This twist on classic potato salad is always a hit at any BBQ!
The combination of tender potatoes, grilled corn, and poblanos brings a delightful crunch and smoky flavor. Tossed in a creamy chili lime dressing and sprinkled with cotija cheese (or feta cheese), each bite bursts with summer vibes.
It’s easy to whip up ahead of time, making it an ideal side dish for gatherings.
Serve it alongside your grilled favorites, and watch it disappear from the table!
We love: Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad (by Kalefornia Kravings)
Lemon orzo salad
Looking for a new and exciting pasta salad? This lemon orzo salad brings a refreshing burst of flavor to your BBQ spread.
The lightness of the orzo, paired with crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado, makes each bite a delight. The bright lemon dressing ties everything together beautifully. Plus, the toasted pine nuts offer a satisfying crunch.
Prepare it ahead of time, and let it chill while you focus on grilling, ensuring you have a delicious, vibrant side dish ready to impress your guests.
We love: Lemon Orzo Salad Recipe (by Joy Food Sunshine)
Grilled corn salad
What would a BBQ be without grilled corn? This grilled corn salad brings a burst of summer to your BBQ table.
The sweet, charred corn combines beautifully with diced red bell pepper, fresh jalapeño, and bright cilantro, creating a refreshing dish that’s as colorful as it is tasty. Toss in crumbled feta for a creamy touch and finish with a drizzle of lime juice and olive oil to tie it all together.
Serve this salad cold or at room temperature, making it a crowd-pleasing side that’s effortless to prepare and enjoy.
We love: Grilled Corn Salad (by Real Food with Sarah)
Slow cooker baked beans
Slow cooker baked beans are a must-have for your BBQ spread.
Packed with three types of beans, they offer a delightful sweetness with just the right amount of heat. Cooking them in the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on grilling. Crispy bacon, tender onions, and a blend of sauces create a rich, hearty side that complements any grilled meat.
Serve them warm or use them as a dip for a tasty twist on your BBQ favorites.
We love: The BEST Slow Cooker Baked Beans Ever (by Ambitious Kitchen)
Summer pesto pasta salad
This pesto pasta salad was made for BBQ season!
The colorful fusilli, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta come together for a refreshing dish everyone will love. Mixing in the vibrant pesto and a touch of mayo delivers rich flavors that perfectly complement grilled meats. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, making it easy to prepare ahead of time.
With a sprinkle of fresh basil on top, this salad adds a burst of color and taste to your summer gatherings.
We love: Summer Pesto Pasta Salad (by Joyous Apron)
Spinach & artichoke pasta salad
This spinach and artichoke pasta salad is a standout side for any BBQ.
Packed with fresh spinach, flavorful artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes, it offers a refreshing taste. The basil vinaigrette brings everything together with a hint of brightness. After cooking the rotini, a quick blanching of the spinach adds a vibrant touch.
Serve it chilled for a delightful, make-ahead dish that complements grilled meats perfectly.
We love: Spinach & Artichoke Pasta Salad with Basil Vinaigrette (by From My Bowl)
Black bean stuffed sweet potatoes
If you’re looking for a comforting vegan BBQ side dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying, look no further than these black bean stuffed sweet potatoes.
The natural sweetness of the baked potatoes pairs beautifully with the zesty black bean medley, fresh tomatoes, and corn. Topping it all off with creamy guacamole and a drizzle of tangy vegan sour cream adds layers of flavor.
Easy to prepare and bursting with nutrition, these stuffed potatoes are a delightful addition to your summer gatherings that everyone will appreciate.
We love: Black Bean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes (Vegan) (by Two Spoons)
Italian rotini pasta salad with asparagus
Embrace spring’s abundance with this asparagus pasta salad.
The colorful mix of spiral rotini, tender asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and gouda creates a vibrant dish bursting with flavor. Tossed in extra virgin olive oil and Italian seasonings, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for warm weather gatherings.
You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
We love: Italian Rotini Pasta Salad With Asparagus (by Garlic Salt & Lime!)
Lebanese potato salad
Looking for a fresh take on classic potato salad? This Lebanese potato salad shines at any BBQ with its bright flavors and fresh herbs.
Cooking red potatoes until tender creates a delightful base, while a zesty mix of lemon juice and olive oil adds a refreshing punch. Mashing garlic and blending in cilantro and parsley makes every bite fragrant and savory. Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled to please your guests.
This salad effortlessly complements grilled meats and brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your cookout.
We love: Lebanese Potato Salad (by White Kitchen Red Wine)
Parmesan bow tie Italian pasta salad
This easy parmesan bow tie Italian pasta salad is a fantastic side for your next BBQ.
The colorful mix of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers brings a refreshing crunch, while the homemade Italian dressing ties everything together beautifully. With the added depth of olives and parmesan, each bite bursts with flavor.
Prepare it ahead of time and let it chill, so it’s perfectly cool and ready to complement those grilled meats.
We love: Easy Parmesan Bow Tie Italian Pasta Salad Recipe (by No Plate Like Home)
Three bean salad
Another classic BBQ staple, this three bean salad is always a fantastic choice!
It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and a bright medley of colors will catch everyone’s eye. Crisp green beans, hearty chickpeas, and kidney beans come together in a tangy dressing that gets better after chilling. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a refreshing side dish that complements grilled meats perfectly.
Plus, you can make it ahead of time, leaving you with more time to enjoy the party!
We love: Three Bean Salad (by Love and Lemons)
Cilantro lime pasta salad
Bursting with sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado, it brings bright summer flavors to your meal. The zesty cilantro lime dressing ties everything together, adding a tangy kick that complements grilled dishes beautifully.
Quick to make and easy to transport, this salad pairs well with just about anything on the grill, making it a standout side for gatherings with family and friends.
We love: Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad (by Kalefornia Kravings)
Sweet & spicy honey Brussels sprouts
These sweet and spicy honey Brussels sprouts make a perfect side for your BBQ.
The balance of honey’s sweetness and a kick of heat creates a delightful flavor that complements grilled meats beautifully. Roasting brings out their natural caramelization, resulting in crispy edges and tender centers. Simply coat them in a quick honey glaze and let the oven do the work.
Serve them warm for a show-stopping side dish that everyone will enjoy.
We love: Sweet & Spicy Honey Brussels Sprouts (by Non-Guilty Pleasures)
Easy canned artichoke heart salad
This easy canned artichoke heart salad brings a burst of flavor to any BBQ.
The creamy yogurt dressing, zesty lime, and tangy feta create a delightful contrast to the tender artichokes. Tossed with fresh herbs and crunchy walnuts, this salad offers a refreshing and light side dish. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying good food and company.
Serve it alongside grilled chicken for a balanced summer feast everyone will love.
We love: Easy Canned Artichoke Heart Salad Recipe (by Non-Guilty Pleasures)
Air fryer butternut squash
The natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs perfectly with grilled meats, adding a touch of warmth to your meal.
Tossing the squash with olive oil and garlic brings out its rich flavors, while the air fryer gives it a delightful crispness. In just 18 minutes, you’ll have tender, golden cubes to serve alongside your favorite BBQ dishes.
It’s simple, delicious, and sure to make your summer gatherings even more enjoyable.
We love: Air Fryer Butternut Squash (by Air Frying Foodie)
Dill pickle pasta salad
This dill pickle pasta salad is a standout side for any BBQ gathering.
The combination of creamy dressing, crunchy dill pickles, and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite is a delightful mix of tangy and savory, with sharp cheddar and red onion adding depth. Toss it together in minutes and let it chill while you focus on grilling.
This dish brings a fun twist that will keep everyone coming back for more.
We love: Dill Pickle Pasta Salad (by The Chunky Chef)
Cucumber macaroni salad with dill
And if you’re looking for another delicious dill salad, this cucumber macaroni salad with dill brings a refreshing twist to your summer BBQ spread.
The crunchy cucumbers and sweet onions balance beautifully with the creamy dressing, making it light and satisfying. With a touch of fresh dill, it adds a burst of flavor that complements grilled dishes perfectly.
Easy to prepare in advance, this salad keeps well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. Serve it chilled for a delightful side that everyone will love.
We love: Cucumber Macaroni Salad with Dill Recipe (by The Herbeevore)
Creamy cucumber salad
Creamy cucumber salad is such a classic BBQ side salad.
With crisp cucumbers and zesty red onions tossed in a tangy sour cream dressing, it offers a light contrast to heavier dishes. The fresh dill adds a burst of flavor that complements grilled meats perfectly.
Whether you recall Grandma’s recipe or are trying it for the first time, this salad makes for an easy side that everyone at your gathering will enjoy.
We love: Creamy cucumber salad (by Lemon Tree Dwelling)
Simple grilled vegetables
These grilled vegetables bring color and flavor to your BBQ spread with minimal effort.
Juicy mini bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes shine when kissed by the grill, enhancing their natural sweetness. The simple olive oil and garlic brush gives them a delightful touch. Just a few minutes on the grill creates those beautiful char marks while keeping the veggies tender-crisp.
Serve them alongside your main dishes for a vibrant, tasty complement that everyone will love.
We love: The Best Grilled Vegetables (by Budget Bytes)
Crispy parmesan air fryer zucchini
Crispy parmesan air fryer zucchini makes a delightful BBQ side dish.
This dish combines fresh zucchini with savory garlic and onion flavors, all topped with golden, melty parmesan cheese. The air fryer cooks the zucchini to a perfect crisp in under 15 minutes, allowing you to focus on grilling your main course. Serve it warm with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh touch.
It’s a quick, healthy option that balances rich BBQ flavors beautifully.
We love: Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini (by Healthful Blondie)
Batata harra (spicy potatoes)
Add a spicy twist to your classic potatoes with batata harra.
These spicy potatoes shine with warm spices, fresh herbs, and a tangy splash of lime juice. The combination of garlic, turmeric, and crushed red pepper flakes creates a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with grilled meats. With just 25 minutes of preparation, you’ll have a vibrant, hearty side that everyone will love.
Serve them warm or at room temperature for a delicious addition to any summer meal.
We love: Batata Harra (Spicy Potatoes) (by The Mediterranean Dish)
Frijoles negros
Frijoles negros (Cuban black beans) make a fantastic side dish for your BBQ, offering a delightful contrast to grilled meats.
These silky black beans are packed with flavor from sautéed onions, peppers, and garlic, simmered to perfection with spices and a touch of vinegar. Whether you choose the traditional dried beans or the quick canned version, they’re easy to prepare and pair beautifully with fluffy rice.
Serve them alongside your favorite BBQ proteins for a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
We love: Frijoles Negros (Cuban Black Beans) (by A Sassy Spoon)
Roasted cauliflower salad with tarragon tahini
This roasted cauliflower salad with tarragon tahini makes a vibrant addition to your BBQ spread.
The combination of tender, charred vegetables and peppery arugula creates a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Drizzled with a creamy tahini dressing infused with fresh lemon and tarragon, it brings an herbaceous touch that complements grilled meats beautifully.
Easy to prepare and filled with robust flavors, this salad can be the perfect side dish for your next outdoor gathering.
We love: Roasted Cauliflower and Potato Salad with Tarragon Tahini (by Dishing Out Health)
Crispy smashed potatoes
Who can resist crispy smashed potatoes? Even more so when they’re served with a delicious herby green sauce!
Boiling the baby Yukon golds until tender and then smashing them creates the perfect canvas for olive oil and parmesan. As they roast, the potatoes develop a golden crust that’s simply irresistible. Serve them with the vibrant herby green sauce made of fresh parsley, chives, and tarragon for a burst of flavor.
This side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a must-have for your summer gatherings.
We love: Crispy Smashed Potatoes + Herby Green Sauce Recipe (by The Wooden Skillet)
Warm mediterranean orzo pasta
And if it’s not quite summer yet, this warm pasta salad takes the chill out of the night!
The colorful mix of sautéed cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and fresh herbs brings a burst of flavor to the table. Tossed in a zesty red wine vinaigrette, this salad is both light and satisfying. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and can be served warm, making it perfect for an outdoor gathering.
Share this vibrant dish with friends and enjoy the warm, sunny vibes of summer.
We love: Warm Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad (by Walder Wellness)
Simple green salad
A simple green salad is such a reliable classic.
Crisp mixed greens, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy red onions create a vibrant mix that complements grilled meats perfectly. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and homemade croutons add delightful texture.
With a quick drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette, this salad comes together effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings.
We love: Simple Green Salad (by Two Peas & Their Pod)
Fruit salad with honey lime dressing
Celebrate summer fruit with a sweet salad to complement your favorite grilled meat.
The vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, grapes, and mangoes adds a burst of color and flavor to your table. Tossed in a sweet and tangy honey lime dressing, each bite feels invigorating.
Preparing it is a breeze, and chilling enhances the flavors, making it a delightful side dish that complements grilled meats beautifully while keeping the meal light and cheerful.
We love: Fruit Salad with Honey lime Dressing (by A Mind “Full” Mom)
Marinated cucumber tomato and onion salad
This marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad is a BBQ essential that brightens any summer gathering.
With just five minutes of prep, you get a refreshing blend of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy onions soaked in a flavorful vinegar marinade. The balance of sweetness and acidity from the sugar and vinegar pairs beautifully with grilled dishes.
Chill it for a couple of hours, and you’ve got a vibrant side that complements your BBQ spread perfectly.
We love: This Marinated Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad (by The Yummy Bowl)
Loaded baked potato casserole
Every BBQ needs a veggie casserole, and this loaded baked potato casserole has everything you’re looking for!
Creamy russet potatoes mix with rich cream cheese, sour cream, and milk, creating a comforting base. Topped with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, it adds a savory crunch to your plate. Preparing it in advance means you can focus on grilling and entertaining.
Serve this cheesy delight alongside your favorite BBQ meats for a truly satisfying meal.
We love: Loaded Baked Potato Casserole (by The Diary of a Real Housewife)
Mediterranean chickpea salad
This Mediterranean chickpea salad shines as a vibrant BBQ side dish when you’re looking for a deliciously healthy side.
Packed with chickpeas, crisp cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers, its fresh flavors bring a delightful contrast to grilled meats. Tossing it with a zesty Greek vinaigrette and herbs adds a burst of brightness. Whether served right away or prepped for lunches, this salad offers a nutritious and flavorful option that enhances any summer gathering.
Top it with crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch!
We love: Quick & Easy Mediterranean Chickpea Salad (by The Wooden Skillet)
Frequently asked questions
Whether you’re grilling up some burgers, ribs, or chicken, no BBQ is complete without some tasty side dishes.
These easy BBQ side dish recipes are sure to please any crowd and will be the perfect complement to your main dish.
So next time you fire up the grill, try out one (or all!) of these delicious and easy BBQ side dishes. Happy grilling!
