As the sun shines brightly this summer, many of us flock outdoors with loved ones for backyard gatherings. Grilling and hosting a barbecue bash is a beloved tradition for numerous families. And what’s a sizzling barbecue without the sweet and savory accompaniments? Kabobs, in particular, are a crowd-pleaser due to their effortless preparation, endless customization options, and irresistible flavor. However, as we meticulously marinate our meats and veggies on the grill, we often overlook the supporting cast of side dishes that can make or break the overall experience. That’s why I’m excited to share 42 delectable kabob-inspired side dish ideas that will take your summer grilling to new heights and ensure a memorable gathering with friends and family.
42 Easy Kabobs Side Dish Ideas
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilling corn on the cob is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare this popular summer vegetable. To start, brush the ears of corn with butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to bring out their natural sweetness. Next, place them on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re lightly charred and tender. For added inspiration, try one of the many delicious variations available, such as the 37 recipes featuring grilled corn on the cob that can be found online.
Mediterranean Salad
Kabob-friendly salads are always a hit, and this particular recipe is no exception. By combining the peppery flavor of arugula with sweet cherry tomatoes, refreshing cucumbers, salty olives, and crumbly feta cheese, you’ll create a harmonious blend that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Simply toss all the ingredients together in a bowl, then dress with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the best flavors.
Grilled Zucchini
To prepare the zucchini, start by cutting it into manageable chunks. Next, drizzle a light coating of olive oil over the pieces, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Finally, place the zucchini on the grill and let it cook for 6-8 minutes, or until it reaches a tender and caramelized state with a lovely brown color.
Caprese Salad Kabobs
Indulge in the simplicity of a classic caprese salad by combining sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves on a toothpick. Add a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze or a light olive oil to bring out the flavors, then finish with a pinch of salt and pepper for added depth.
Grilled Asparagus
To prepare the asparagus, begin by trimming any excess ends and then gently brushing the spears with a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Next, place the asparagus on the grill and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches a tender and lightly browned texture.
Pineapple Salsa
Experience the perfect harmony of flavors with this delectable salsa, expertly paired with succulent kabobs. Combine the sweetness of diced pineapple, the pungency of red onion, the subtle heat of jalapeno, the freshness of cilantro, and the zesty tang of lime juice, all blended together with a pinch of salt and pepper for a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Grilled Eggplant
Transforming the humble eggplant into a flavorful delight is a straightforward process. Begin by slicing the vegetable into uniform rounds, ensuring even cooking. Next, drizzle a moderate amount of olive oil over the eggplant, followed by a light sprinkle of salt and pepper to bring out its natural sweetness. Finally, place the rounds on a grill or grill pan preheated to medium-high heat, and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a rich brown color and a tender, soft texture.
Caesar Salad
Combine the crispness of fresh romaine lettuce with the rich flavors of homemade or store-bought caesar dressing, topped off with shaved parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons for a delightfully satisfying salad experience.
Grilled Bell Peppers
When it comes to enhancing the natural sweetness of bell peppers, grilling them is an excellent way to unlock their full potential. Simply cut the peppers into bite-sized pieces, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill for 8-10 minutes. The resulting smoky flavor will beautifully balance out their inherent sweetness.
Greek Yogurt Dip
Combine the rich creaminess of Greek yogurt with the bright flavors of fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a hint of savory depth from garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The result is a refreshing and tangy dip that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Transform sweet potato slices by peeling and cutting them into uniform rounds. Next, lightly coat the rounds with olive oil, adding a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. Place the seasoned sweet potatoes on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
Pasta Salad
Combine cooked pasta with a colorful medley of ingredients, including juicy diced tomatoes, refreshing cucumbers, sweet red onions, briny olives, crumbly feta cheese, and a drizzle of zesty Italian dressing to create a mouthwatering salad that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a satisfying side dish.
Grilled Mushrooms
To add a depth of flavor to your grilled mushrooms, first brush them lightly with a drizzle of olive oil. Next, season them with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper. Then, place the mushrooms on a preheated grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and slightly charred.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Transform the sweetness of watermelon into a refreshing summer snack by combining it with tangy feta cheese and fragrant mint leaves. To take it to the next level, drizzle the mixture with a rich balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lime juice, allowing the flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.
Grilled Tomatoes
To enhance the flavor of your tomatoes, start by cutting them in half lengthwise. Next, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over each half, taking care not to overdo it. A light coating will suffice. Following that, add a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out their natural sweetness. Finally, place the tomato halves on a preheated grill or grill pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop those lovely char marks and a slightly softened texture.
Cucumber Salad
Combine the freshness of cucumbers and the sweetness of honey by mixing thinly sliced cucumber with diced red onion, a drizzle of apple cider vinegar, and a touch of pure honey. To add a burst of flavor and texture, sprinkle some chopped fresh dill, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.
Grilled Onions
To bring out the natural sweetness of the onions, start by slicing them into thin rounds. Next, lightly coat each round with a drizzle of olive oil, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Finally, place the onion rounds onto a grill or grill pan over medium heat and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of caramelization.
Roasted Chickpeas
To transform canned chickpeas into a crunchy and flavorful snack, start by draining and rinsing the contents of one can. Next, combine the chickpeas with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of spices, and a sprinkle of salt in a bowl. Then, spread the mixture out on a baking sheet and roast it in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach a golden brown and crispy texture.
Grilled Squash
To prepare the squash, first divide it into uniform rounds. Next, lightly coat each round with a layer of olive oil to enhance its natural flavor. For added depth, season with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper. Finally, place the squash on a preheated grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
Bruschetta
Savor the simplicity of a rustic bruschetta by first toasting slices of crusty bread to a golden brown perfection. Next, add a pop of color and flavor with diced fresh tomatoes, carefully placed atop the toasted bread. For an extra layer of freshness, sprinkle a few leaves of fragrant basil over the tomatoes. Then, bring out the big guns – a clove or two of pungent garlic, minced to release its full aromatic potential. Finally, drizzle a rich and tangy olive oil across the surface, followed by a glaze of sweet and sour balsamic glaze. The harmonious union of these flavors and textures is sure to delight.
Grilled Broccoli
To prepare the broccoli, start by cutting it into florets. Next, lightly coat the broccoli pieces with a drizzle of olive oil, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavors. Finally, place the broccoli on a grill or grill pan and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until it reaches your desired level of tenderness and browning.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Transform your ordinary white rice into an extraordinary accompaniment by cooking it to perfection, then elevating its flavor profile with a sprinkle of vibrant cilantro and a burst of citrusy lime juice. This trifecta of textures and tastes harmonizes beautifully to create a zesty and aromatic side dish that will complement any meal.
Roasted Garlic Potatoes
Transform baby potatoes into a culinary masterpiece by roasting them to perfection using the rich flavors of olive oil, pungent garlic, and a medley of aromatic herbs. The result is a dish that’s not only tantalizing to the taste buds but also visually appealing with its golden-brown hue and tender texture.
Coleslaw
Indulge in the simplicity of combining shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions with a rich and creamy coleslaw dressing to create a revitalizing accompaniment that perfectly complements any meal.
Baked Beans
Infuse your meal with the warm, comforting essence of traditional baked beans, either freshly prepared in-house or conveniently sourced from a trusted can. The familiar flavor profile and tender texture will undoubtedly elevate the overall dining experience.
Tzatziki Sauce
Indulge in the refreshing fusion of creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy cucumber, and zesty flavors as you dip your kabobs into a tangy delight. The harmonious blend of dill, garlic, and lemon creates a sauce that’s as vibrant as it is versatile, making it an ideal accompaniment for your skewered treats.
Ratatouille
Indulge your senses with the rich flavors of a vibrant vegetable medley, featuring a harmonious blend of juicy tomatoes, tender zucchini, meaty eggplant, and crunchy bell peppers. As you simmer this colorful concoction with aromatic herbs and pungent garlic, allow the deep notes of savory goodness to transport you to a world of culinary delight.
Lemon Orzo Salad
Infuse your pasta salad with bright and tangy flavors by cooking orzo al dente and combining it with a trifecta of freshness: the pungency of lemon zest, the delicate charm of chopped herbs, and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. The interplay between these ingredients yields a dish that is as vibrant as it is satisfying.
Spinach Strawberry Salad
Combine the freshness of spinach with the sweetness of strawberries by tossing together a handful of baby leaves with halved berries, chopped candied pecans or walnuts, and a drizzle of your favorite vinaigrette. This unexpected mix creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that makes for an impressive yet easy side dish.
Quinoa Salad
To create a refreshing and nutritious dish, start by cooking quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, combine the quinoa with an assortment of colorful ingredients such as diced cucumbers, red bell peppers, black beans, and corn. For added flavor, drizzle the mixture with a zesty lime-cilantro dressing that brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables.
Sautéed Spinach
Transform the humble spinach into a flavorful and nutritious accompaniment by rapidly cooking it in a mixture of garlic, olive oil, and a hint of fiery red pepper flakes, yielding a delectable and effortless side dish.
Tabouli Salad
Blending together the humble ingredients of bulgur, parsley, mint, juicy tomatoes, pungent onions, zesty lemon juice, and rich olive oil creates a vibrant and revitalizing Middle Eastern-inspired salad that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Grilled Artichokes
Savor the delicate flavor of grilled artichokes by cooking them until they reach a tender and smokily sweet perfection. Paired with a tangy dip like aioli or zesty lemon butter, this combination is sure to delight.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
To unlock the full flavor potential of Brussels sprouts, roast them with a drizzle of olive oil and a sweet-and-sour balsamic glaze until they reach a satisfying balance of caramelized sweetness and crispy texture.
Sweet Cornbread
To elevate your kabob experience, consider baking a moist and scrumptious cornbread that harmoniously complements the diverse flavors of your grilled creations. The perfect accompaniment to your meal, this warm and comforting side dish is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Roasted Red Potatoes
Transform roast red potatoes by combining the savory flavors of olive oil, aromatic rosemary, and pungent garlic to create a dish that balances crunchiness on the outside with tenderness within.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Transforming classic grilled corn on the cob into a flavorful Mexican-inspired side dish is as simple as combining it with a blend of creamy mayonnaise, crumbly cotija cheese, spicy chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The result is a deliciously bold and tangy addition to any meal.
Mediterranean Rice
Prepare a savory rice dish by cooking long-grain rice with the aromatic flavors of sautéed onions, garlic, and a medley of Mediterranean spices. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious fusion of tastes that will elevate your meal to new heights.
Greek Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your meal with a flavorful roasted potato dish that combines the richness of olive oil with the brightness of lemon juice, the pungency of garlic, and the earthiness of oregano. The harmonious blend of these ingredients creates a zesty and savory side that will complement any main course.
Red Cabbage Slaw
Transform the humble slaw into a vibrant masterpiece by combining shredded red cabbage, crunchy carrots, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. The sweet and sour notes of this colorful creation will elevate any meal to new heights.
Roasted Carrots
Indulge your senses with the harmonious union of sweet and savory flavors by roasting whole or sliced carrots in a mixture of honey, olive oil, and thyme. This delectable side dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Homemade Pickles
Transform your kabobs into a memorable summer experience by adding a tangy and crunchy accompaniment – homemade pickles made with cucumbers, vinegar, dill, and spices. These flavorful bites are just one part of the 42 easy side dish ideas that will elevate your grilling game without consuming too much time. From grilled veggies and fruits to refreshing salads and dips, you’ll have a wealth of options at your disposal. The best part? Your guests will be impressed by the flavors and presentation, making your barbecue party an unforgettable success.