The Fourth of July is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about your barbecue menu. While the main focus is often on the grilled meats, no barbecue is complete without some delicious side dishes to complement the flavors of the grill. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering with family or a larger celebration in the neighborhood, adding some delicious side dishes to your menu can take your celebration to the next level.
Here are some delicious side dish recipes to help add some variety to your Fourth of July BBQ spread:
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chile Lime Butter
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side dish, but you can elevate it with a delicious chili lime butter. Simply mix softened butter with chili powder, lemon peel and lemon juice. Brush hot roasted corn with butter and sprinkle with fresh cilantro to enhance the flavor.
2. Red, White and Blue Potato Salad
Celebrate the patriotic spirit of the Fourth of July with Red, White and Blue Potato Salad. Use a mix of red, white, and blue potatoes, boil until soft, and mix them with a creamy dressing made of mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and dill. Add some chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery and green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
3. Watermelon Feta Salad
Cool off on a hot summer day with a refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad. Simply toss sweet watermelon cubes with crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This sweet and savory salad is the perfect complement to grilled meats and will impress your guests with its vibrant colors.
4. BBQ Baked Beans
No barbecue is complete without smoky, sweet and spicy baked beans. Make a batch of homemade baked beans by simmering canned beans with barbecue sauce, brown sugar, molasses and a blend of spices like smoked paprika and mustard powder. Top with crispy bacon pieces for extra crunch and flavor.
5. Grilled Veggie Skewers
Add some healthy and colorful veggie skewers to your BBQ menu by grilling a mixture of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes and red onions. To enhance the natural flavor of vegetables, brush them with a simple marinade made of olive oil, garlic, herbs and lemon juice before grilling them. Remove the skewers from the grill and serve them hot for a delicious and nutritious side dish option.
By including these delicious side dish recipes on your Fourth of July BBQ menu, you can impress your guests with a variety of flavors and textures that complement the grilled meats. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these dishes will definitely add some excitement to your celebration. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and festive Fourth of July barbecue feast!
