15 Cookout Side Dish Recipes You Need To Try This Week

You know those cookouts where you spend all day grilling but forget about the sides?

Then you end up with sad bowls of potato chips and store-bought salsa?

Does figuring out cookout sides stress you out?

Want something more than just the usual chips and dip?

If your answer is yes to all of the above questions then I’ve got your back!

These recipes are packed with flavor, vibrant colors, and exciting textures. Your side dishes will never be an afterthought again!

Why You’ll Love These Recipes:

• Flavor Bursts: Exciting side dishes that go beyond the boring.
• Healthy-ish Options: Light and satisfying recipes.
• Simple & Stress-Free: Minimal prep, maximum enjoyment!
• Ultimate Cookout Solution: Your go-to recipe collection for delicious sides.

So Let’s Dive Right In.

15 Delicious Cookout Side Dish Recipes You”ll Wish You Knew Sooner

Watermelon Feta Mint Salad

This salad is the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and refreshing. I love the juicy watermelon, salty feta cheese, and the cool burst of mint. It’s so light, summery, and easy to make.

• Pros: Sweet & savory balance, hydrating & refreshing, beautiful presentation, easy to assemble.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Try other melons like cantaloupe or honeydew.
• Cooking Tip: Cube the watermelon and feta into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
• Customization Ideas: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze, chopped olives, or toasted pine nuts.
• Indian Touch: Swap the mint with cilantro and add a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder.

Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado and Lime

This salad is like summer in a bowl! I love the combination of sweet grilled corn, creamy avocado, and the zing of lime juice. It’s so fresh and satisfying, and the smoky flavor from the grill is amazing.

• Pros: Summery flavors, creamy & crunchy textures, easy to make, healthy & satisfying.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Add grilled bell peppers or red onion for extra smokiness.
• Cooking Tip: Grill the corn directly on the grates for the best char and sweetness.
• Customization Ideas: Add chopped tomatoes, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Indian Touch: Use roasted peanuts, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of chaat masala for a vibrant twist.

Indian Chickpea Spicy Salad

This salad is a hearty and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for a cookout. I love the mix of textures with the creamy chickpeas, crunchy cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes. The tangy dressing adds a ton of flavor, it’s super healthy, and satisfying.

• Pros: Protein-rich, flavorful & satisfying, easy to make, healthy & refreshing.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Add chopped bell peppers, olives, or other Mediterranean ingredients.
• Cooking Tip: Use canned chickpeas for convenience or cook dried chickpeas for better texture.
• Customization Ideas: Add fresh herbs, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of olive oil.
• Indian Touch: Add chopped green chilies, a pinch of red chili powder, and chopped cilantro.

Quinoa Tabbouleh with Herbs

This salad is light, refreshing, and loaded with fresh flavors. I love the fluffy quinoa, chopped herbs, and salty feta cheese. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional tabbouleh and makes a great side dish or even a light lunch.

• Pros: Healthy & flavorful, packed with herbs, refreshing & light, easy to make ahead.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Try different herbs like basil or dill, or swap the feta for goat cheese.
• Cooking Tip: Cook the quinoa according to package directions for the perfect texture.
• Customization Ideas: Add chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Indian Touch: Use roasted cumin seeds, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime instead of lemon.

Asian-Style Cucumber Salad

This salad is so light and refreshing, with a tangy-sweet Asian-inspired dressing. I love the crunchy cucumbers, the sesame seeds, and the hint of spice from the dressing. It’s perfect with grilled meats or fish.

• Pros: Refreshing & flavorful, crunchy & satisfying, easy to make, healthy & light.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Add thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas.
• Cooking Tip: Salt the cucumbers and drain to remove excess water for a crunchier salad.
• Customization Ideas: Add chopped cilantro, a drizzle of sriracha, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.
• Indian Touch: Use roasted cumin seeds instead of sesame seeds and add a pinch of chili powder.

Black Bean and Mango Salsa

This salsa is so colorful, bursting with sweet mango and savory black beans. The lime juice and cilantro brighten the flavors, making it irresistible. It’s great as a dip for chips or topping for grilled chicken or fish.

• Pros: Sweet & savory flavors, colorful & festive, easy to make, versatile topping.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Use canned black beans or other beans you like.
• Cooking Tip: Dice the mango and other ingredients into small pieces for scooping.
• Customization Ideas: Add chopped jalapeno for spice, red onion, or a drizzle of olive oil.
• Indian Touch: Swap cilantro for mint, and use pomegranate arils instead of mango.

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing

This salad will make you a broccoli lover! The crunchy broccoli pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy lemon dressing. It’s a great way to get in your veggies and has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Pros: Healthy & satisfying, creamy & tangy, crunchy texture, easy to customize.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Add dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, or shredded cheese.
• Cooking Tip: Blanch the broccoli briefly for a vibrant green color and slightly tender texture.
• Customization Ideas: Add crumbled bacon (omit if you want to keep it vegetarian), chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Indian Touch: Add roasted peanuts, chopped green chilies, and a pinch of turmeric to the dressing.

Creamy Macaroni Salad with a Twist

This mac salad takes a classic to the next level! I love the creamy dressing, tender macaroni, and the added crunch from fresh veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for potlucks and cookouts.

• Pros: Creamy & comforting, kid-friendly, customizable, make-ahead option.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Add different vegetables, shredded cheese, or cubed cooked protein.
• Cooking Tip: Cook the macaroni just al dente for the best texture in the salad.
• Customization Ideas: Add hard-boiled eggs, chopped pickles, or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning.
• Indian Touch: Add chopped green chilies, a pinch of turmeric, and a squeeze of lime juice to the dressing.

Grilled Peach and Halloumi Skewers

These skewers are the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. I love the way the juicy peaches caramelize on the grill and pair perfectly with the salty halloumi cheese. A drizzle of honey and a few herbs take it to the next level!

• Pros: Sweet & savory, unique flavors, easy to assemble, beautiful presentation.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Use nectarines or plums instead of peaches.
• Cooking Tip: Grill over medium-high heat for nice grill marks and tender peaches.
• Customization Ideas: Add sprigs of fresh rosemary to the skewers while grilling, or top with a balsamic glaze.
• Indian Touch: Swap halloumi with paneer, and add a sprinkle of chaat masala and chopped cilantro.

Grilled Zucchini Ribbons with Herbs and Garlic

This is a simple but delicious way to enjoy grilled zucchini. I love the tender ribbons, the garlicky flavor, and the slight char from the grill. It’s a light and healthy side perfect for a summer cookout.

• Pros: Healthy & flavorful, easy to make, garlicky goodness, tender texture.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Try other summer squash like yellow squash or pattypan.
• Cooking Tip: Slice the zucchini thinly for even grilling and tender ribbons.
• Customization Ideas: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Indian Touch: Mix chopped cilantro with the garlic oil, and add a pinch of garam masala.

Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

These wedges are a delicious and healthy alternative to french fries. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes caramelizes on the grill and the savory seasoning adds a crave-worthy touch.

• Pros: Healthy & satisfying, sweet & savory, easy to make, kid-friendly.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Try other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips.
• Cooking Tip: Toss the wedges with olive oil and seasoning before grilling for even flavor.
• Customization Ideas: Drizzle with a creamy sauce like ranch or chipotle mayo, or sprinkle with crumbled feta.
• Indian Touch: Use a tandoori spice mix for the seasoning, and serve with a side of mango chutney.

Grilled Vegetable and Tofu Kebabs

These kebabs are a great way to cook up a variety of veggies, and the tofu adds a boost of protein. I love how you can easily customize them with your favorite vegetables. They’re perfect for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

• Pros: Versatile & flavorful, healthy & satisfying, easy to customize, colorful presentation.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Use your favorite vegetables, or swap the tofu for grilled chicken.
• Cooking Tip: Marinate the tofu and vegetables for extra flavor, and soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning.
• Customization Ideas: Brush with a teriyaki glaze, pesto, or your favorite marinade.
• Indian Touch: Marinate the tofu and vegetables in a yogurt-based tandoori marinade, and serve with a cilantro-mint chutney.

Conclusion

There you have it! A whole collection of delicious cookout side dish ideas to make your next BBQ the best one yet. From fresh salads to grilled goodies and crowd-pleasing favorites, there’s something for everyone.

If you loved these recipes, be sure to save this article to make them all summer long.

Think you know someone else who would love these tasty sides? Share this article with them and spread the cookout cheer!

Finally, let me know – which of these cookout side dishes are you most excited to try first? Do you have any other favorite summer sides I didn’t mention? Let’s chat in the comments below!

 

Disclaimer: The recipes shared on this blog are based on personal preferences and are provided for informational purposes only. I strive to ensure accuracy and relevance, but cannot guarantee that the information will always be up to date or error-free. They should not be considered as medical or health advice. If you have any health issues, dietary restrictions, or allergies, please consult with a specialist or healthcare provider before trying any recipe. I do not accept responsibility for any adverse effects that may arise from the preparation or consumption of the dishes featured on this site. Also, the final outcome of the recipes can look different depending on a lot of factors, including the cooking temperature, process, utensils you use, spices, etc. Enjoy responsibly!