BBQ Side Dishes — The Classics in a Row | The Rub Kitchen
A good BBQ doesn't just depend on the meat — the side dishes complete the meal. The best BBQ side dishes are made for waiting: they are served at room temperature, improve with a little resting time, and require no extra attention when the grill needs you. These are the classics.
The essential BBQ side dishes
Coleslaw
The classic counterpoint to fatty, smoky meat. The acidity and freshness of coleslaw cuts through the richness of pulled pork or brisket. Make it at least 1 hour in advance so the cabbage can soften. Two styles: mayo-based (creamy, American) or vinegar-based (light, Carolina-style). Vinegar-coleslaw goes better with pulled pork; mayo-coleslaw with brisket and ribs.
Baked Beans
Slow-cooked white beans in a sweet-smoky sauce of bacon, tomato paste, brown sugar, and mustard. Ideal for simmering next to the BBQ while the meat cooks. They get better the next day — always make them a day in advance.
Potato Salad
The classic European BBQ side. In the Netherlands and Belgium, traditionally with mayonnaise, mustard, and chives. German style: with vinegar, broth, and bacon — served warm. Always serve at room temperature — cold potato salad loses flavor.
Cornbread
The classic American BBQ bread — lightly sweet, crumbly, and ideal for soaking up juices from pulled pork or brisket. Make it in a cast iron skillet for the best crust. In NL/BE, it can be replaced by a good soft roll or brioche.
Mac & Cheese
Creamy macaroni with cheddar — the ultimate comfort side dish for heavy BBQ meals. Make it in the oven or, for extra smoky flavor, on the BBQ for 30 minutes with a little smoking wood.
Chimichurri & dipping sauces
Chimichurri is the most versatile BBQ sauce — fresh parsley-vinegar sauce that works with almost any grilled meat. Always make more than you think you'll need.
→ Recipe: homemade chimichurri
Side dishes per BBQ style
| Main course | Classic side dish |
|---|---|
| Pulled pork | Vinegar-coleslaw, brioche bun, baked beans |
| Spare ribs | Cornbread, mayo-coleslaw, potato salad |
| Brisket | Pickled jalapeños, white bread, baked beans |
| Chicken | Corn, grilled bell peppers, chimichurri |
| Vegetarian | Couscous, tzatziki, grilled flatbread |
| Asado / churrasco | Chimichurri, bread, grilled corn |