Here in Austin, barbecue season is a way of life. And while the grill usually gets all the glory, it’s a side dish that can really be made or broken. Adding a little variety to the table will take your BBQ game to the next level and make all your guests happier.
Having a balanced lineup of BBQ side dishes at the next cookout is a complete game changer. In fact, they might steal the show. It’s refreshing to get out of the routine and mix things up. If you’re a baked bean loyalist, why not try a vibrant seasonal salad this time? There are numerous creative side dishes available, each coveted more than the last one.
From burnt corn salads to handheld snacks, we rounded up the barbecue side dishes that would definitely impress. That classic burger? It is about to get some serious competition.
Featured images Kristen Kilpatrick.
Read all the BBQ side dishes we can’t wait to whip this summer.
Herbaceous fennel throw
This bright and delicious fennel throw keeps you fresh and light. It’s not easy to throw together, but a sure crowd delight.
Mexican chopped salad served with honey shallot dressing
Chopped salads are an easy way to pack a little extra protein. Chickpeas are the star of this show and serve as a heartfelt base for toppings of your choice. The touch of carrots, cucumbers and coriander on the matchstick is just a few flavors to add to the bowl.
Ricotta and plum bruschetta
A few summers ago, at Kamille’s house, we launched these ricotta and plum bruschetta bites, layered with creamy ricotta and sprinkled with mint. It’s hard not to love the five iconic under 5 minutes BBQ side dishes.
Green Goddess Pasta Salad
The pasta salad was born for a backyard barbecue. This green goddess pasta salad is no exception. It’s not just tasty. It also doubles as a way to get extra greenery and all of its nutrients in the sun after a day.
Crispy Halmi Salad
Halloumi is a highly underrated ingredient to add to your summer barbecue side dish rotation. When tossed with a variety of crispy greens and flavourful dressings, this halmi salad may be just the book.
Spicy Sui Cafeta Salad
For a sweet and spicy treat, this watermelon feta salad is a versatile winner when it comes to side dishes. Bonus points are all chopping and dicing in advance, giving this salad a short assembly time.
Avocado Caprese Salad
All kinds of caprese salads are welcome at my summer barbecue. However, this salad gets additional acclaim, especially for the use of avocados (a summer staple ingredient).
Pest Parmesan potato
This triple threat authentic recipe is one of the best games in BBQ side dish games. Really, they only take 5 ingredients and are a delicious way to get your greens. Even before they reach the plate, you’ll want to finish the whole pot.
Prosciutto and melon skewers
Skewers have a way to make it for almost anything in my outdoor summer gathering. They are easy to assemble and can be whipped. Plus, these are simple ways to taste the flavors using these as examples.
DIPS & CRUDITE Grazing Committee
If the main attraction of your meal leans more luxurious, your BBQ side dish should include a light Herbie option. This French onion dip is refreshing and tangy, making it the perfect dip for Crudités, Crackers and more.
Garam Masala Corn Salad
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, cob corn is always a strong choice. This Indian-inspired burnt corn take puts a little spin on your daily summer side.
Smoked Ciliary Iori simple potato salad
I love the good light and simple salad served along with my favorite barbecue dishes. This didn’t become easy. Aside from the mayonnaise, I tied all of my favorite Southern sweet potato ingredients together.
Lemon Pasta Salad
The pasta salad is one of the most iconic side dishes on a barbecue! Enhance your game with this healthy, flavorful dish.
Crispy roasted sweet potatoes
This delicious sweet potato recipe doesn’t give you enough sweet and creamy flavor. And when it comes to the best BBQ side dishes, who doesn’t love what you can eat with one hand?
Salt and vinegared bread roasted potatoes
As Kamille writes, these crispy potatoes are surprisingly good in the shattered earth. Preheating the pot ensures that the potato skin gets a golden brown sear. But don’t worry, the inside remains wonderfully creamy. After all, a small variety of your roasted potatoes is the spice of life.
This post was last updated on June 19, 2025 to include new insights.
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
