The 4th of July is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to start planning your BBQ menu. While main dishes like burgers and hot dogs are always a hit, it’s the side dishes that can really take your 4th of July barbecue to the next level. Instead of serving the same old potato salad and coleslaw, why not tempt your guests with some unique and delicious side dishes this year?
The best way to impress your guests at any barbecue is to offer a variety of side dishes that are both delicious and unexpected. Here are some ideas for unique side dishes that will have everyone at your 4th of July barbecue asking for seconds.
1. Grilled Street Corn Salad
One of the most popular side dishes at summer barbecues is corn on the cob, but why not replace it this year with Grilled Street Corn Salad? This dish takes the flavors of Mexican street corn – corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese and chili powder – and turns it into a delicious and refreshing salad that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
2. Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad
For a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a hot summer day, try making a Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad. This dish combines sweet watermelon, salty feta cheese, and fresh mint to create a flavor combination that is both surprising and delicious.
3. Grilled Veggie Skewers
For a healthy and colorful side dish that will look great on your barbecue spread, try making grilled veggie skewers. Simply skewer your favorite vegetables – like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms – and grill them until they’re soft and lightly charred. Serve them with a balsamic glaze or creamy herb sauce for added flavor.
4. BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon
No BBQ is complete without baked beans, but why not kick things up a notch this year with BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon? This dish takes classic baked beans and adds smoky BBQ sauce and crispy bacon for a side dish that’s rich, flavorful, and totally delicious.
5. Red, White and Blue Potato Salad
Show your patriotic spirit with Red, White and Blue Potato Salad. This dish combines red potatoes, white potatoes, and blue potatoes with a tangy Dijon mustard dressing for a side dish that’s as appealing to look at as it is delicious.
6. Pineapple Jalapeño Coleslaw
For a spicy twist on a classic side dish, try adding some heat to your coleslaw with Pineapple Jalapeño Coleslaw. This recipe combines crunchy cabbage with sweet pineapple, spicy jalapeno and tangy lime juice to create a side dish that is sure to be a hit.
These are some ideas for unique side dishes that will surprise your guests at your 4th of July barbecue. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or rich and flavorful, these dishes are sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to celebrate Independence Day with a delicious and memorable barbecue spread.
