Easy Cookout Sides to Bring

Summer is here, and that means it's time to fire up the grill and invite friends and family over for a cookout. While the main dish is always a crowd-pleaser, it's the side dishes that can really make or break a successful gathering. But don't worry, creating delicious and easy cookout sides doesn't have to be a chore. Here, we've gathered some simple, yet impressive, side dish ideas that will complement your main course and impress your guests.

First, let's consider some key factors when choosing cookout sides. You'll want a mix of flavors and textures, something that can hold up to the heat, and dishes that can be prepared ahead of time. With these factors in mind, let's dive into some easy and delicious side dish ideas that will make your cookout a hit.

Easy Grill-Safe Sides

When planning a cookout, it's always a good idea to have some dishes that can be prepared on the grill alongside your main course. This not only saves you precious oven and stovetop space but also adds a smoky flavor that complements the main event.

One grill-safe side that's always a hit is Grilled Vegetable Skewers. They're easy to prepare, colorful, and can be customized with your favorite veggies. Simply thread chunks of bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until tender. For a fun twist, try making Caprese Skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Corn on the Cob

No cookout is complete without Corn on the Cob. It's a classic side that's easy to prepare and loved by all. To make it a bit more special, try grilling your corn in its husk for added flavor. Once done, simply remove the husk and serve with butter, salt, and pepper. For a twist, try Mexican Street Corn by brushing the grilled corn with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese.

Another grill-safe side is Grilled Pizza. It's a fun and interactive dish that can be customized to everyone's liking. Use store-bought pizza dough or make your own, then top with your favorite combination of sauce, cheese, and toppings. Grill until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Potato Salads and Pasta Salads

Potato and pasta salads are cookout staples that can be prepared in advance and served at room temperature. They're also great for feeding a crowd and can be tailored to your guests' dietary needs.

For a classic Potato Salad, boil potatoes and mix with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Add diced celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor and texture. For a healthier option, try a German-Style Potato Salad with a tangy vinegar dressing and bacon.

Pasta salads are another versatile option. Try a Caprese Pasta Salad with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Or, for a heartier option, make a BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad with grilled chicken, corn, black beans, and a creamy BBQ dressing.

No-Cook and Make-Ahead Sides

Sometimes, it's nice to have some dishes that don't require any cooking or can be made ahead of time. These sides allow you to spend more time enjoying your company and less time in the kitchen.

One no-cook side that's always a hit is Fruit Salad. It's refreshing, colorful, and can be made with whatever fruits are in season. For a fun twist, try a Watermelon Feta Salad with crumbled feta, fresh mint, and a honey-lime dressing.

Coleslaw and Pasta Salads

Coleslaw is another cookout staple that can be made ahead of time. Try a Classic Creamy Coleslaw with a tangy mayonnaise and vinegar dressing, or a Spicy Asian-Style Coleslaw with a Sriracha and soy sauce dressing.

Pasta salads are also great make-ahead sides. Try a Mediterranean Pasta Salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta, dressed with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Or, for a heartier option, make a Southwest Pasta Salad with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a creamy lime dressing.

Dips and Spreads

Dips and spreads are another easy and make-ahead option. They're great for serving with chips, veggies, or as a topping for burgers and hot dogs.

Try a Classic Onion Dip made with sour cream, mayonnaise, and dried onion soup mix. Or, for a healthier option, make a Hummus and Veggie Dip with Greek yogurt, tahini, and your favorite veggies.

For a sweet spread, try a Peach and Jalapeño Jam that's perfect for spreading on biscuits or serving with cheese and crackers. It's a unique and delicious twist on a classic cookout side.

In a perfect world, every cookout side would be easy to prepare, delicious, and impress your guests. But with these simple and impressive side dish ideas, you're well on your way to hosting a cookout that's sure to be a hit. So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy the flavors of summer. Happy cooking!