I think everyone can cast their minds back to at least one memorable summer BBQ, even if it was just a few family members gathered together on one of those long, hot days.
I was thinking about BBQs and how they're a staple way of eating outdoors across much of the world whenever the weather is warm and dry. There's something special about that gentle sense of togetherness and all the memories that come with it.
The grilled meats and smoky barbecue favourites usually steal the spotlight, but take a moment to think about the spread on the table. The colours, the contrast, and the variety are what truly bring the meal to life. These often-overlooked heroes are the side dishes that brighten up those meat-heavy plates.
I love the sweet crunch of fresh red peppers alongside grilled fish, chicken, or other meats (and they're just as delicious with vegetarian options). The cool, crisp freshness of a salad provides the perfect contrast to food that's just come straight off the grill.
So, let's talk about some delicious—and surprisingly easy—BBQ side dishes that everyone will enjoy!
1. Homemade Coleslaw
You can make homemade coleslaw! It's easy to prepare in a large batch and is guaranteed to become a family BBQ favourite.
Ingredients
- 1 purple cabbage (or standard white cabbage)
- 1 white, brown, or red onion
- 2 medium carrots (heirloom carrots add extra colour)
- ½ to ⅔ cup mayonnaise (vegan mayonnaise works well too)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste (around 1 teaspoon of each is recommended)
Method
- Finely shred the cabbage.
- Shred the onion.
- Julienne or grate the carrots.
- Place all ingredients into a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Simple Garden Salad
Ingredients
- 1 iceberg lettuce
- 1 cos (romaine) lettuce
- 1 bag rocket (arugula)
- ⅔ punnet cherry tomatoes (whole or halved)
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
Optional Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- A splash of lemon juice
- A pinch of sea salt
Method
- Separate, wash, and dry the lettuce leaves.
- Add all salad ingredients to a large bowl.
- If using the dressing, whisk the ingredients together and drizzle over the salad.
- Toss gently and refrigerate until serving.
3. Green Bean & Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 packets green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- ½ packet feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
- ⅓ punnet cherry tomatoes (whole or halved)
- ⅓ cup sliced red onion
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Red Pepper Medley (Our Family Favourite!)
Ingredients
- 1 red pepper
- ½ punnet cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 pickled beetroots
- ¼ red onion
- ½ tablespoon ginger powder or ginger paste
- 2–3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- A splash of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Dice all vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- Add everything to a mixing bowl.
- Pour over the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and ginger.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly and refrigerate until serving.
5. Homemade Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 French stick (baguette)
- ½ pack butter
- 2 garlic cloves
- A pinch of salt
Method
- Slice the baguette into 1-inch slices.
- Soften the butter.
- Crush or finely chop the garlic.
- Mix the garlic and salt into the butter.
- Refrigerate for about one hour to allow the flavours to develop.
- Spread the garlic butter generously onto each slice.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes at 180°C (fan), 200°C (conventional), or 400°F, until golden and crispy.
