Summer BBQ Salads — Side Dishes That Actually Work
Deel
A good BBQ deserves good side dishes. But not every salad works equally well alongside grilled meat. The best BBQ side dishes are fresh, have a bite, and complement the smoky, spicy flavors of your rub. Here are 6 summery salads that always work.
1. Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw is the ultimate BBQ companion. Its freshness and slight acidity cut through the fattiness of grilled meat. Make a version with white cabbage, carrot, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of cumin. Serve cold, preferably made an hour in advance so the flavors can meld. Apple cider vinegar is also an ingredient in our rubs — read more about apple cider vinegar in BBQ.
2. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh — Lebanese parsley salad with bulgur, tomato, mint, and lemon — pairs perfectly with Middle Eastern BBQ flavors like shawarma and kofta. The freshness of mint and lemon beautifully contrasts with smoky meat.
3. Grilled Vegetable Salad
Grill bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant on the BBQ and make a warm salad with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. This is not a side dish you prepare in advance — it comes hot off the grill. Check out our recipes for grilled bell peppers and grilled zucchini.
4. Watermelon-Feta Salad
Sweet, salty, and fresh — the combination of watermelon, feta, mint, and lime is a summery masterpiece alongside grilled chicken or lamb. Make just before serving so the watermelon doesn't get too watery.
5. Potato Salad (Warm or Cold)
A hearty potato salad with mustard, onion, and chives complements pulled pork or brisket well. Let the potatoes cool, but serve at room temperature for the most flavor. Mustard powder is also a key ingredient in rubs — read more about mustard powder in BBQ.
6. Cucumber-Yogurt Salad
A simple salad of cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, and dill. Similar to tzatziki but lighter. Perfect as a cooling counterpoint to spicy rubs like Jamaican Jerk or Tex-Mex.
Tips for the Perfect BBQ Salad
- ✅ Make salads in advance — so you don't have to cook while grilling
- ✅ Always combine a fresh (sour/citrus) salad with rich, fatty meats
- ✅ Serve sauces separately — so everyone can create their own combination
- ✅ Grilled vegetables are both a side dish and a salad at the same time
Do you also want to know what to drink with a BBQ? Read our article on what to eat and drink with a BBQ.