Barbecue, commonly known as BBQ, is a popular cooking method that involves slow-cooking meat over low heat, usually with smoke. BBQ has many passionate fans who love the smoky flavors and tender, fall-off-the-bone meats it produces. When planning a backyard BBQ, one of the most important considerations is what sides and other dishes to serve alongside the starring meat. The options are endless, but certain classic BBQ sides have proven to perfectly complement smoky barbecue.
Bread and Rolls
Bread is a BBQ essential for making sandwiches or just soaking up tasty sauces. Some top choices include:
- Soft burger buns – The classic choice forpulled pork or smoked beef brisket sandwiches. Brioche buns are especially delicious.
- Hard rolls – Kaiser rolls, potato rolls, or onion rolls are ideal vehicles for juicy smoked sausages or ribs. The sturdier texture stands up well to messy meats.
- Cornbread – Warm wedges of this southern staple soak up BBQ sauce beautifully. It adds a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic bread – What goes better with savory meat than garlicky bread? Cheesy Texas toast is a crowd-pleaser.
Salads and Slaws
Bright, fresh salads and tangy coleslaws help cut through the richness of barbecue. They also add color, crunch, and versatility. Consider:
- Coleslaw – No BBQ is complete without a creamy, vinegar-based coleslaw. It counters the heavy smoke flavors perfectly.
- Potato salad – This picnic staple is just as welcome at a BBQ. The potatoes soak up meat juices deliciously.
- Pasta salads – Macaroni, orzo, and other fun pasta shapes make hearty salads ideal for filling up BBQ plates.
- Green salads – Crisp greens, chopped veggies, and zesty vinaigrettes make a refreshing BBQ accompaniment.
Grilled Vegetables
Get your veggie fix by throwing some produce right on the grill alongside the meat. Delicious options include:
- Corn on the cob – The sweet kernels caramelize beautifully on the grill. Brush with a flavored butter.
- Asparagus – Tossed in olive oil and grilled until charred, asparagus is amazing with BBQ.
- Eggplant – Meaty grilled eggplant slices are delicious in sandwiches or on their own.
- Peppers and onions – Mix colorful bell peppers and sliced onions for a classic grilled veggie combo.
- Zucchini/summer squash – Halved and grilled zucchini is a lighter accompaniment for BBQ.
Dips and Sauces
What’s a cookout without sauces for slathering and dipping? Some BBQ favorites include:
- Baked beans – Sweet, smoky baked beans are a quintessential BBQ side. Use canned or make from scratch.
- Potato chips – Crunchy chips are ideal for scooping up dips and sandwich fixings that may drip.
- Guacamole – Cool, creamy guacamole complements smoky meats flawlessly. Make chunky or smooth.
- Salsa – Likewise for fresh, tomato-based salsa. The acidity balances rich BBQ beautifully.
- Ranch dressing – A cooling ranch dip is welcome with grilled veggies, wings, or wherever needed.
Simple Sides
Some additional simple side dish ideas that pair nicely with varied barbecue menus:
- Buttery cornbread
- Cheesy mac and cheese
- Vegetarian baked beans
- Collard greens
- Creamy potato gratin
- Pasta salad or potato salad
- Pickles and olives
- Fresh watermelon slices
What to Drink with BBQ
Quench your thirst with refreshing beverages like:
- Iced tea, sweet or unsweetened
- Fresh lemonade or limeade
- Ice cold beer or hard seltzer
- Frozen margaritas or sangria
- Juices like apple cider or grapefruit
- Soft drinks
Food Safety Tips for BBQs
When cooking outdoors, keep these food safety guidelines in mind:
- Keep cold foods chilled on ice, at 40°F or below
- Don’t let cooked foods sit out longer than 2 hours
- Use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked meat
- Cook meats to a safe internal temperature
- Keep hot foods hot, at 140°F or warmer
Conclusion
There are endless tasty options for rounding out a delicious barbecue meal. Classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, and buttery rolls are always sure bets. Grilled vegetables add great flavor and nutrition. Dip into creamy guacamole, salsa, or ranch dressing for even more options. Wash it all down with refreshing summer beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or beer. Just be diligent with food safety when cooking outdoors. With the right balance of smoky barbecue meat, fresh produce, comforting sides, and libations, your cookout will be an ideal summer treat.