Barbecue Sides to Wow Your Guests At Your Summer Cookout

With warm weather around the corner, it’s time to start planning for all the cookouts you will be hosting and attending this summer. Since you already know how to cook hotdogs, hamburgers, and the perfect steak it’s time to start thinking about what tasty side dishes to serve at your next barbecue. From coleslaw to potato salad, and of course baked beans, we have got you covered this grilling season.

No matter what the occasion might be, a summer barbecue always seems to be a joyous affair. Hanging outside, gathering around a roaring fire, and drinking cold beer is truly a beautiful equation. It doesn’t get much better than being able to cook, eat, and enjoy great company in an alfresco environment. Although you can grill just about anything, we have curated our favorite side dishes that are perfect for these special gatherings. So next time you are thinking of having friends over this season, check out

A summer cookout isn’t complete without coleslaw. Crisp, crunchy, and refreshing, this simple recipe is a must-have at your next barbecue.

Click here to see this Crunchy Coleslaw recipe.

This delicious recipe for baked beans is naturally sweetened with orange juice and maple syrup for a healthier take on this classic dish. Watch out though, they’re addicting!

Click here to see this Diabetic-Friendly Baked Beans recipe.

Cornbread is always a hit, but it’s especially popular in the warmer months. This dish has both a crispy exterior and a moist interior. Cook and serve this recipe in your favorite cast iron for a rustic presentation.

Click here to see this Fluffy Maple Syrup Cornbread recipe.

Nothing says summer like fresh corn and figs! Both of these elements are grilled to add a smoky/sweet dimension to this steak-worthy side dish.

Click here to see this Grilled Corn and Figs With Balsamic Reduction recipe.

Ramps mean that spring is finally here and it’s time to fire up that grill. If you are lucky enough to find these beauties at the farmers market, grab as many as you can! With just a little salt and olive oil, you will have a delicious side to accompany any main.

Click here to see this Grilled Ramps and Spring Vegetables Over Lemon Parsley Quinoa recipe.

This easy approach to cooking baked beans relies on your trusty oven to do all the hard work. Pro tip: If you don’t have time to soak dried beans overnight, just use a good quality brand of canned beans to speed things up.

Click here to see this Oven-Baked Beans recipe.

Pasta salad is a classic summer favorite, and this recipe will not disappoint! Anchovies and olives are the secret ingredients that set this dish apart from others.

Click here to see this Picnic Pasta Salad recipe.

This lighter take on potato salad is ideal if you like following the Mediterranean diet this summer. A fresh pesto made from parsley, pine nuts, and garlic gives this dish a great depth of flavor.

Click here to see this Potato Salad With Parsley Pesto recipe.

Harissa and Greek yogurt are the tasty ingredients that make this potato salad so special. Make sure to bring this to the next outdoor cookout you’re invited to and be prepared to receive complements.

Click here to see this Spicy Yam Potato Salad recipe.

Coleslaw is the quintessential side to any barbecue and this recipe tops them all. The combination of rice vinegar and agave add a subtle sweetness that will have you quickly reaching for seconds.

Click here to see this The Best Coleslaw Ever recipe.

If you love watermelon, then this recipe is for you. The balance of sweet and salty makes this dish an instant winner at any backyard barbecue. So keep these recipes in mind the next time you are thinking about the 25 best foods to bring to a party.

Click here to see this Watermelon and Goat Cheese Salad recipe.

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