Summer barbecues are a quintessential part of warm-weather gatherings, filled with the smoky aroma of grilled meats, laughter, and the joy of outdoor dining. While the main course—think juicy burgers, tender ribs, or perfectly charred vegetables—often steals the spotlight, the side dishes are what truly complete the meal. A great side dish complements the bold flavors of barbecue while adding variety, color, and texture to the plate. From refreshing salads to hearty casseroles, here are 15 perfect side dishes to elevate your summer BBQ, each designed to be crowd-pleasing, easy to prepare, and bursting with seasonal flair.

1. Classic Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a BBQ staple for a reason: its creamy, tangy crunch pairs perfectly with smoky, saucy meats. Shred a mix of green and red cabbage, toss in some grated carrots, and dress it with a blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, a touch of sugar, and a pinch of celery seed. For a lighter twist, swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt. Prepare this ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld. Coleslaw’s versatility makes it a hit with everything from pulled pork to grilled chicken.

2. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Nothing screams summer like corn on the cob, especially when it’s kissed by the grill. Peel back the husks (but don’t remove them), remove the silk, and brush the kernels with butter or olive oil. Pull the husks back up and grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt, chili powder, or cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired elote vibe. The smoky sweetness of grilled corn is a perfect match for any BBQ spread.

3. Watermelon Feta Salad

For a refreshing, no-cook side, this watermelon feta salad is a game-changer. Cube juicy watermelon and toss it with crumbled feta, fresh mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The sweet-salty combo is light and hydrating, making it ideal for hot summer days. Add some arugula or cucumber for extra crunch if desired. This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious, adding a pop of color to your BBQ table.

4. Baked Beans

A hearty side that’s synonymous with BBQs, baked beans bring smoky, sweet, and savory flavors to the plate. Start with canned navy beans for convenience, then simmer them with bacon, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for depth. Bake until thick and bubbly, and serve warm. These beans are a comforting complement to ribs or brisket.

5. Potato Salad

No BBQ is complete without potato salad, and this classic version never disappoints. Boil red or Yukon Gold potatoes until tender, then toss with a creamy dressing of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dill pickles, red onion, and fresh dill. For a tangy kick, add a splash of pickle juice or vinegar. Keep it chilled until serving to maintain its refreshing appeal. This crowd-pleaser is a must-have for any summer gathering.

6. Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Take advantage of summer’s bounty with colorful grilled vegetable skewers. Thread zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and red onions onto skewers, brush with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. Grill until tender and slightly charred. These vibrant skewers add a healthy, flavorful option to your BBQ spread and pair well with any grilled protein.

7. Macaroni Salad

Cool, creamy, and nostalgic, macaroni salad is a BBQ favorite. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, then mix with mayo, a touch of mustard, chopped celery, red bell pepper, and sweet pickle relish. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for color. For a modern twist, add diced avocado or a handful of chopped fresh herbs. Serve chilled for a refreshing contrast to hot-off-the-grill mains.

8. Cucumber Tomato Salad

This light and crisp salad is a perfect palate cleanser for rich BBQ dishes. Slice cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, then toss with thinly sliced red onion, fresh dill, and a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. For extra flair, sprinkle in some feta or olives. This no-fuss side comes together in minutes and is best served fresh to highlight the vegetables’ natural crunch.

9. Cornbread

Golden, slightly sweet cornbread is a Southern-inspired side that pairs beautifully with BBQ. Mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, and buttermilk for a classic batter, then bake in a cast-iron skillet for a crispy edge. For a fun twist, fold in jalapeños and cheddar cheese or top with a honey butter glaze. Serve warm with a pat of butter for a comforting, crowd-pleasing addition.

10. Pasta Salad with Pesto

Pasta salad is endlessly customizable, and a pesto version brings vibrant, herby flavor to the table. Toss cooked rotini or farfalle with homemade or store-bought basil pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and a handful of spinach. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens it up. This dish is easy to make ahead and holds up well in the heat, making it ideal for outdoor BBQs.

11. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a retro side that never goes out of style. Hard-boil eggs, scoop out the yolks, and mix them with mayo, mustard, a dash of hot sauce, and a sprinkle of paprika. Pipe the filling back into the egg whites for a polished look. For a BBQ-friendly twist, add a bit of barbecue sauce or crispy bacon bits to the filling. These bite-sized treats are always a hit with guests.

12. Baked Mac and Cheese

For a decadent side that kids and adults alike will love, baked mac and cheese is the way to go. Cook elbow macaroni and toss with a cheesy béchamel sauce made from cheddar, Gruyère, and a touch of Parmesan. Top with buttery breadcrumbs and bake until golden and bubbly. For a smoky twist, mix in some chopped bacon or a pinch of smoked paprika. This indulgent dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

13. Caprese Salad

This Italian-inspired salad is simple yet elegant, showcasing summer’s best tomatoes. Layer slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction. Sprinkle with sea salt and cracked black pepper. For a BBQ twist, grill the tomatoes lightly before assembling. This vibrant side is light and flavorful, perfect alongside grilled meats.

14. Sweet Potato Fries

For a fun alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the BBQ spread. Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and smoked paprika, and bake or air-fry until crispy. Serve with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup. These fries are a healthier option that still feels indulgent and pairs well with burgers or pulled pork.

15. Fruit Salad

End your BBQ on a sweet note with a refreshing fruit salad. Combine seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, mango, and kiwi for a colorful mix. Toss with a light dressing of honey, lime juice, and fresh mint to enhance the flavors. This vibrant, hydrating side doubles as a dessert and is perfect for balancing out the richness of barbecue dishes.

Tips for BBQ Side Dish Success

• Make Ahead: Many of these sides, like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans, can be prepared a day in advance to save time on BBQ day. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
• Balance Flavors: Aim for a mix of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and sweet sides to complement the smoky, savory flavors of BBQ mains.
• Keep It Cool: For outdoor BBQs, serve cold dishes in chilled bowls or over ice to maintain freshness in the summer heat.
• Presentation Matters: Use colorful platters and garnishes like fresh herbs or edible flowers to make your side dishes as visually appealing as they are delicious.
• Cater to All: Include a few vegetarian or gluten-free options, like grilled vegetable skewers or cucumber tomato salad, to accommodate dietary preferences.

Why Side Dishes Matter

Side dishes are more than just an afterthought—they’re the glue that holds a BBQ meal together. They provide balance, ensuring that every bite is exciting and varied. A well-curated selection of sides can elevate a simple cookout into a memorable feast, leaving guests talking about the food long after the coals have cooled. Plus, many of these dishes are forgiving, allowing you to prep ahead or scale up for a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Conclusion

These 15 side dishes are designed to shine at any summer BBQ, offering a mix of classic comfort foods, fresh salads, and creative twists that celebrate the season’s best flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or bringing a dish to a potluck, these recipes are sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and let these sides take your BBQ to the next level.