10 Show-Stopping Sides For Your Next Backyard BBQ

This post contains links to affiliate websites, such as Amazon, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you using these links. We appreciate your support!

They say that the devil is in the details – and it holds true in all aspects of your life. In this case, it holds true when you are busy planning the best backyard barbecue of the season. While you get busy listing all the meats and veggies to grill, don’t forget to arrange all kinds of flavorful and vibrant sides as well. Barbecue is a complete treat on its own, but it gets even better when paired with fresh, crunchy, wholesome sides. From sauces to salads – here are the 10 best sides you can have at your next backyard barbecue.

Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad 

A summer barbecue is incomplete without something strawberry. These rich bundles of goodness bring a classic summer vibe to any summer party. With fresh leafy greens, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, this strawberry salad brings all kinds of textures blended in a bowl of absolute deliciousness. Full Recipe: Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad 

Easy Cilantro Chimichurri 

What do you do with your leftover marinades? When the marinade is as good as this cilantro chimichurri, I make sure to drizzle some on the grilled meat as a dressing. In fact, I make more than enough of this tangy, herbal marinade that I have enough leftovers to serve as a condiment. Full Recipe: Easy Cilantro Chimichurri 

Basmati Rice

Fragrant, flavorful, and vibrant – basmati rice not only adds to the diverse food items but also serves as an excellent side to grilled meat. If you are having some tandoori chicken skewers for your barbecue, you must have basmati rice on the side for a full ride to Indian cuisine. Full Recipe: Basmati Rice

Balsamic Pasta Salad 

Grilled vegetables instantly become infinitely delicious when tossed into this balsamic pasta salad. With a little addition of balsamic vinegar, both as a marinade and the dressing, this salad is a must-have, especially during summer barbecues when vegetables are freshly and abundantly available. Full Recipe: Balsamic Pasta Salad 

Sautéed Carrots 

Carrots make an excellent side because of their firm texture that becomes deliciously crunchy when sauteed in butter and herbs. What’s more, they complement wonderfully with the tender, juicy barbecue mains, whether they are meat or vegetable. Full Recipe: Sauteed Carrots 

Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips 

Yes! We can never quite have enough of carrots, so here is another variation of a carrot-based side – but this time we pair it with parsnips for extra crunch and texture. With a generous glaze of sweet honey, these roasted root vegetables bring a sweet-and-savory flavor, crunchy texture, and vibrant summer colors to your barbecue platter. Full Recipe: Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips 

Garlic Foccacia 

Or simply – cheesy garlic bread! Bread has always been the go-to side for every meal of the day. With a generous coat of garlic butter and a cheesy, herby topping, this garlic focaccia becomes an instant crowd pleaser at barbecues. Full Recipe: Cheesy Garlic Foccacia 

Broccoli Crunch Salad

The double crunch of broccoli and nuts is what makes this salad an absolute winner during summer barbeques. And of course, one generous pour of tangy lemon dressing is what it takes to make this the star of your next barbecue. Full Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Harissa Dip 

A spicy and tangy yogurt harissa dip is a must wherever grilled meat is served. This adds a heavenly creamy texture to the lightly charred and smoky grilled chicken, making sure that you experience a burst of rich flavors with every bite. Full Recipe: Harissa Yogurt Dip 

Halloumi Fries

If you’re having grilled burgers, you gotta have some fries. This time, replace the traditional potato fries with these creamy, oven-baked halloumi fries to add a crumbly, crunchy, cheesy addition to your barbecue mains. Full Recipe: Halloumi Fries