Last Updated on February 16, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Barbecue is a delicious and fun way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. It’s a perfect way to spend the summer, but what makes a great barbecue is not just the meat. A barbecue is incomplete without the perfect side dishes to complement the main course.
There are a plethora of options when it comes to barbecue side dishes, but which ones are the best?
In this article, we’ll explore what is the best barbecue side dishes for BBQ, what appetizers go with barbecue, what to bring to a BBQ potluck, what to serve at a backyard BBQ, the best vegetables for a BBQ, how to make your BBQ more fun, whether to BBQ with a lid closed, and what temperatures a BBQ should be cooked at.
23 Best Barbecue Side Dishes:
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Macaroni and cheese
- Baked beans
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Grilled vegetables
- Cornbread
- Deviled eggs
- Watermelon slices
- Cucumber and tomato salad
- Grilled zucchini
- Garlic bread
- Grilled peaches
- Fried okra
- Grilled asparagus
- Caprese salad
- Grilled pineapple
- Sweet potato fries
- Grilled eggplant
- Caesar salad
- Fruit salad
- Pesto pasta salad
- Grilled garlic parmesan potatoes
What appetizers go with barbecue?
If you’re hosting a barbecue, it’s important to have some appetizers to keep your guests entertained while the main course is cooking. Here are some popular appetizers that go well with barbecue:
- Chips and dip
- Guacamole and tortilla chips
- Hummus and pita bread
- Cheese and crackers
- Meatballs
- Shrimp cocktail
- Bruschetta
- Deviled eggs
- Vegetable platter with dip
What should I bring to a BBQ potluck?
If you’re attending a barbecue potluck, it’s important to bring a dish that complements the main course. Here are some popular dishes that are great for a barbecue potluck:
- Baked beans
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Fruit salad
- Pasta salad
- Cornbread
- Deviled eggs
- Watermelon slices
- Macaroni and cheese
- Grilled vegetables
What Do You Serve at a Backyard BBQ?
When it comes to serving food at a backyard BBQ, it’s important to have a variety of options that cater to everyone’s tastes. Here are some popular dishes that are great for a backyard BBQ:
- Hamburgers and hot dogs
- Grilled chicken
- Ribs
- Pulled pork
- Brisket
- Grilled seafood
- Vegetarian options like veggie burgers and grilled tofu
- Side dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans
What Is the Best Vegetable for BBQ?
Grilling vegetables is a great way to add some healthy options to your barbecue. Here are some popular vegetables that are great for grilling:
- Corn on the cob
- Zucchini
- Asparagus
- Eggplant
- Bell peppers
- Portobello mushrooms
- Onions
- Sweet potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Pineapple
How Can I Make My BBQ More Fun?
If you’re looking to make your BBQ more fun, there are a few things you can do:
- Set up lawn games like cornhole or horseshoes
- Play some music
- Have a designated area for kids to play
- Serve a signature cocktail or drink
- Have a dessert table with s’mores or other treats
Should You BBQ With Lid Closed?
When it comes to barbecuing, there are differing opinions on whether you should barbecue with the lid closed or open. Here are some reasons why you might want to barbecue with the lid closed:
- It helps regulate the temperature of the grill
- It helps smoke the meat and infuse flavor
- It helps reduce flare-ups
- It helps cook the food evenly
What Temperatures Should a BBQ Be Cooked At?
When it comes to cooking meat on a barbecue, it’s important to cook it at the right temperature to ensure that it’s cooked properly and safe to eat [1]. Here are some temperature guidelines for cooking meat on a barbecue:
- Chicken: 165°F
- Beef: 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well-done
- Pork: 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well-done
- Fish: 145°F
- Vegetables: 350°F to 400°F
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the best side dishes for a barbecue are the ones that complement the main course and cater to everyone’s tastes. From grilled vegetables to macaroni and cheese, there are plenty of options to choose from. When it comes to appetizers, bring something that’s easy to eat and won’t spoil anyone’s appetite for the main course. If you’re attending a potluck, bring a dish that complements the main course. To make your barbecue more fun, have some games or music to keep your guests entertained. And when it comes to cooking on a barbecue, keep the lid closed to regulate the temperature and cook the food evenly. With these tips, your next barbecue is sure to be a hit.
Reference:
- https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/guide-to-grill-bbq-temperature-heating-article
- What Size Grease Trap Do I Need For Commercial Kitchen? - September 12, 2023
- How to Make Pea Protein Taste Better? - August 31, 2023
- How Much Is a Pound of Pulled Pork? - August 31, 2023