10 Crowd-Pleasing Sides for Your 4th of July BBQ
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You’ve got the burgers, the hot dogs, maybe even some ribs if you’re feeling fancy – but let’s be honest, the real stars of any good BBQ are the sides. Whether you’re team pasta salad or you go straight for the potatoes, there’s something about a table full of colorful, summery dishes that makes a 4th of July cookout feel complete. These recipes are all easy to make, totally shareable, and guaranteed to be the ones people ask you for after the fireworks. Some are fresh and crunchy, others are cheesy and comforting, but they all pair perfectly with grilled mains – and a second helping.
Honey Roasted Carrots & Parsnips
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If you’re looking for an easy veggie side that actually gets eaten, these honey roasted carrots and parsnips are it. They roast up sweet and caramelized with just a hint of thyme, and they’ll fit in right next to whatever’s coming off the grill. Full recipe: Honey Roasted Carrots & Parsnips
Broccoli Crunch Salad
This fresh, make-ahead salad has all the textures covered – crunchy, creamy, tangy, and sweet. It’s the perfect no-wilt side that holds up well on a warm day and disappears fast from the potluck table. Full recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Creamy Taco Macaroni Salad
A fun twist on classic macaroni salad, this version brings in all your favorite taco flavors – think black beans, cheddar, crunchy peppers, and a creamy, zesty dressing. It’s an easy make-ahead side that always disappears fast, whether it’s for a BBQ or a few days of laid-back lunches. Full recipe: Creamy Taco Macaroni Salad
Harissa Potatoes
If you’re looking to spice things up, these roasted harissa potatoes bring the heat – in the best way. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and tossed in a smoky, spicy harissa paste with a pop of lemon at the end. A bold, flavorful twist on classic potatoes that’ll definitely get people talking at the table. Full recipe: Harissa Potatoes
Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad
If you’re looking for something fresh and fancy with basically zero effort – this is the one. Juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, crunchy candied walnuts, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette make this salad the total package. It’s light, sweet, and totally made for warm-weather cookouts. Everyone will want seconds (or thirds). Full recipe: Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad
Easy Cilantro Chimichurri
If you’re grilling anything – steak, chicken, veggies, you name it – this punchy herb sauce is your secret weapon. It’s fresh, garlicky, and ready in 5 minutes. Spoon it over everything and watch it disappear faster than the fireworks. Full recipe: Easy Cilantro Chimichurri
Cheesy Garlic Focaccia
If cheesy garlic bread and focaccia had a baby, this would be it. Buttery, garlicky, ridiculously cheesy, and somehow still easy enough for a party. Just try not to eat the whole tray straight out of the oven before the guests arrive. Full recipe: Cheesy Garlic Focaccia
Grilled Zucchini and Summer Squash
These lightly charred, tender veggies are a summer staple for a reason. A quick balsamic-garlic marinade brings big flavor, and that golden grill marks moment? Chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of easy, healthy side that goes with everything on the BBQ table – and bonus: you don’t need to heat up the kitchen! Full recipe: Grilled Zucchini and Summer Squash
Balsamic Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables
This pasta salad is what summer BBQ dreams are made of! Grilled veggies, herby balsamic dressing, and crumbled feta all tossed with pasta – it’s light, fresh, and super satisfying. Make it ahead, serve it cold, and watch it disappear right off the table. Full recipe: Balsamic Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables
Mexican Watermelon Salad
Sweet, salty, crunchy, and super refreshing – this watermelon salad checks all the boxes for a perfect cookout side. It’s tossed with crisp arugula, toasty pepitas, tangy lime vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of queso fresco. Basically, summer in a bowl! Full recipe: Mexican Watermelon Salad
