The 5 Best Grilled Side Dishes for your BBQ

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When grilling a meal, everyone thinks about the meat, and usually it stops there. Why limit yourself on the grill to just meat, when you can also make an amazing side dish to go with your favorite steak or grilled chicken.

Not only is grilling an easy alternative in a way to cook a side dish. It will open up many more options of flavors that are unique to a grill. You can give vegetables a Smokey and charred taste, or even cook up a simple, sweet and delicate desert for a hot summer day. Let alone, your kitchen will stay much cleaner as the cooking is done outside (spouse approved).

With the right ingredients and preparation, grilled side dishes can elevate your outdoor cooking experience and turn it into a gourmet feast. Here are the five best grilled side dishes to complement your next BBQ meal.

For grilling sides, I like to grill them hot, usually not a low and slow smoke kind of cook. So for that, I always use my Chargriller Akorn Grill, or anything like it . Grilling sides is also easy to do on a gas grill, but I always prefer the charcoal flavor. There is just something about a natural wood fired heat that gives food the most amazing flavor, at least to me.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a staple of summer barbecues, and grilling it is a quick and easy way to add some extra flavor. Simply shuck the corn, leaving the husks intact, and soak it in water for 30 minutes. This helps to keep the kernels moist and prevents them from burning on the grill. After soaking, place the corn on the grill, close the lid and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels are tender.

For a sweet and smoky flavor, brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with chili powder, paprika, and cumin before grilling. For a Mexican twist, try smearing the corn with a mixture of mayonnaise, chili powder, and lime juice.

Grilling corn on the cob is my go to for summertime burgers or brats on the grill. They go perfectly with a summer cookout and everyone seems to love the simple dish.

2. Grilled Potatoes

Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be grilled in many different ways. For a classic and simple preparation, cut large potatoes into wedges, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and place them on the grill for about 20 minutes, flipping occasionally, until tender and crispy.

For a more flavorful twist, try grilling sliced potatoes with onions, garlic, and herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Place the potatoes and other ingredients in a foil packet and grill for about 30 minutes, flipping once, until tender and fragrant. These savory potatoes are a great side dish for a steak dinner.

3. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a nutritious and delicious side dish that can be customized to your liking. A variety of vegetables can be grilled, including bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, asparagus, and mushrooms. Simply cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and place them on the grill for about 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.

For a flavor boost, try marinating the vegetables in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling. This adds a tangy and savory taste that complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Vegetables can be tricky to contain on the grill, which is why I always tend to use a grilling basket like this one. It’s good for cooking on the grill with, as well as transferring to a serving dish, keeping all the vegetables contained.

4. Grilled Fruit

Grilled fruit is a sweet and juicy side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any outdoor meal. Popular fruits to grill include peaches, pineapple, and watermelon. Simply cut the fruit into thick slices, brush with oil, and place on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until charred and slightly softened.

For a unique twist, try grilling fruit with a sprinkle of cinnamon, brown sugar, and a drizzle of honey. This creates a caramelized and sweet flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the fruit.

Grilling fruit is not only a great side, it could even be your main desert on a warm summer evening. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, grilling fruit is the perfect way to finish up a meal.

5. Grilled Bread

Grilled bread is a simple but delicious side dish that adds a crispy texture to any meal. For a classic preparation, brush sliced bread with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and garlic. Place on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until charred and crispy.

For a more sophisticated twist, try making bruschetta by topping the grilled bread with chopped tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozzarella. This creates a fresh and flavorful combination that is perfect for summer barbecues. I like to grill bread as a more fancy appetizer when i’m cooking for a special occasion, or sometimes it can even become the main meal for us when the kid are gone, paired with a nice wine of course.

Adding amazing flavor and textures by grilling your side dishes is a great way to compliment the main serving of meat for your next bbq.

Theses were our 5 favorite grilled ideas for side dishes, what are some of yours? Share your comment down below and follow us on facebook!