Perfect Sides for Your Labor Day BBQ
Classic Potato Salad
Potato salad is a staple at any BBQ. It’s easy to make and pairs well with grilled meats. You can prepare it ahead of time, which makes it a convenient choice.
To make a classic potato salad, boil potatoes until they are tender. Mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it chill in the fridge before serving.
Grilled Corn on>Brush the corn with butter and sprinkle with salt. Wrap each ear in aluminum foil and place on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. Serve hot with extra butter on the side.
Fresh Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your BBQ spread. It’s light and tangy, which balances the richness of grilled meats.
Shred cabbage and carrots. In a bowl, mix them with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a bit of sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
You can use canned beans to save time. Cook them with some bacon, onions, and your favorite BBQ sauce. Let them simmer until they are thick and flavorful.
Watermelon Slices
Watermelon slices are a refreshing addition to your BBQ. They are sweet, juicy, and perfect for a hot day.
Simply cut a watermelon into slices or cubes. Serve them chilled for the best experience. It’s a healthy and hydrating option for your guests.
Cook your favorite pasta and let it cool. Mix it with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Let it chill before serving.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ. It’s crispy, buttery, and full of flavor.
Slice a baguette and spread a mixture of butter, garlic, and parsley on each piece. Wrap in aluminum foil and place on the grill. Cook until the bread is toasty and the butter is melted.
Combine your favorite fruits such as berries, melons, and grapes. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice and a bit of honey for extra flavor. Serve chilled.
Green Salad
A green salad is a simple and healthy side. It’s a great way to add some greens to your meal.
Mix fresh lettuce, spinach, and arugula. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Dress with olive oil and vinegar. Toss well and serve immediately.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a great addition to any BBQ. They are easy to prepare and add a burst of color to your table. You can grill bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Simply toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then place them on the grill.
Classic Potato Salad
Potato salad is a BBQ staple. It's creamy, tangy, and satisfying. Boil some potatoes, chop them into bite-sized pieces, and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped pickles. Add some salt and pepper to taste.
For a twist, you can add some chopped celery or onions. This will give the salad an extra crunch and flavor. Make sure to chill it in the fridge before serving.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is another classic side dish. It's crunchy and refreshing, making it a perfect complement to grilled meats. You can make it with green or red cabbage, or a mix of both. Shred the cabbage and mix it with a dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a bit of sugar.
For an extra kick, you can add some shredded carrots or apples. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the coleslaw.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a hearty and flavorful side. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. You can use canned beans and mix them with some BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and chopped onions. Bake them in the oven until they are bubbly and hot.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad is a balance out the heavier BBQ dishes. You can use a mix of your favorite fruits like watermelon, berries, and grapes. Simply chop them up and mix them in a bowl.
For an extra touch, you can add a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lime juice. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the fruits.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a crowd-pleaser. It's easy to make and goes well with any BBQ dish. You can use a baguette or any type of bread you like. Slice the bread and spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on each slice. Grill it until it's crispy and golden brown.
Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad is a creamy and comforting side. Cook some macaroni and let it cool. Mix it with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and some peas. Add salt and pepper to taste.
For a bit of color, you can add some chopped red bell peppers or tomatoes. This will make the salad more visually appealing and add extra flavor.
You can sprinkle some paprika on top for a bit of color and flavor. They are easy to make and always a hit at BBQs.