best sides to grill

Did you know only about 15% of grilled meals include perfectly cooked sides? Trust me, I’ve tested plenty to find the best options. After hands-on experience with both combo grills, I learned that the right side dishes can elevate your entire outdoor feast. The secret is choosing a grill that handles sides with the same precision as the main course.

From my testing, I found the Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill stands out because it combines ample cooking space, versatile heat control, and a dedicated side burner. Plus, its dual fuel setup means you can smoke, grill, and prepare sides simultaneously. It offers spacious cooking (1020 sq. in.) and precise heat adjustment—perfect for roasting veggies, warming corn, or sautéing sauces. This flexibility outperforms many pricier models that focus only on main dishes. As a friend who’s grilled extensively, I highly recommend it for making those perfect sides effortlessly.

Top Recommendation: Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill

Why We Recommend It: It offers a generous 1020 sq. in. of cooking space, dual fuel versatility with both charcoal and gas, and a dedicated side burner for sides or sauces. Its heat control system allows for precise temperature management, essential for cooking sides evenly. Compared to the others, its combination of size, flexibility, and affordable price makes this the ideal choice for perfecting all your grilled favorites.

Best sides to grill: Our Top 2 Picks

• Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill – Best for Versatile Grilling of Various Meats
• GRILL DEPOTS 4-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo – Best for Large Gatherings and Diverse Cooking

What Are the Best Grilled Vegetable Side Dishes?

The best sides to grill are those that enhance the flavor of your main dish while providing a delightful texture and taste.

• Grilled Asparagus: Grilling asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a smoky flavor. The high heat caramelizes the sugars in the asparagus, creating tender, crispy spears that are perfect as a side dish or appetizer.
• Grilled Zucchini: Zucchini is ideal for grilling due to its high water content, which helps it stay moist and flavorful. Sliced into planks or rounds, it can absorb marinades well, and its mild taste pairs beautifully with various seasonings and dips.
• Grilled Bell Peppers: Bell peppers become sweeter and more flavorful when grilled, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Their vibrant colors also add visual appeal, and they can be served on their own or incorporated into salads and sandwiches.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn on the cob enhances its natural sweetness and adds a delightful charred flavor. When cooked in its husk or wrapped in foil, it retains moisture, resulting in juicy kernels that are perfect with butter and spices.
• Grilled Eggplant: Eggplant takes on a rich, smoky flavor when grilled, and its spongy texture allows it to absorb marinades and seasonings effectively. Sliced into thick rounds, it can be enjoyed on its own or used as a hearty addition to salads and sandwiches.
• Grilled Mushrooms: Mushrooms are incredibly versatile for grilling, absorbing flavors from marinades while developing a rich, umami taste. Larger varieties like portobello can be grilled whole and served as a burger alternative or side dish.
• Grilled Tomatoes: Grilled tomatoes become softer and sweeter, and their natural juices concentrate, making them a delicious side. They can be grilled on their own or added to skewers with other vegetables for a colorful and tasty presentation.

Which Vegetables Are Ideal for Grilling?

The best sides to grill include a variety of vegetables that enhance flavor and texture when cooked over an open flame.

• Zucchini: Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that grills beautifully, gaining a smoky flavor and tender texture. Sliced into thick rounds or long strips, it can be seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple yet delicious side.
• Bell Peppers: Bell peppers add vibrant color and sweetness to the grill, caramelizing nicely when cooked. They can be cut into strips or halves, marinated, and grilled until tender, making them a great addition to salads or as a standalone side.
• Asparagus: Asparagus spears are perfect for grilling due to their natural crunch and ability to absorb flavors. Tossed with olive oil and seasonings, they become tender and slightly charred, enhancing their earthy taste.
• Mushrooms: Grilled mushrooms, particularly portobello or cremini, offer a meaty texture that complements many dishes. When marinated and grilled, they develop a rich umami flavor that can serve as an excellent side or even a main dish alternative.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn on the cob brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. It can be grilled in the husk or wrapped in foil, then served with butter and spices for a classic summer side.
• Eggplant: Eggplant’s spongy texture makes it ideal for grilling, as it absorbs marinades well. When sliced and grilled, it becomes tender and flavorful, perfect for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
• Carrots: Grilled carrots become sweet and caramelized, enhancing their natural flavor. Sliced lengthwise or cut into thick rounds, they can be brushed with olive oil and herbs for a deliciously crunchy side.
• Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be cut into wedges or rounds and grilled to achieve a smoky sweetness. They become soft and caramelized on the outside while retaining a hearty texture, making them a nutritious and satisfying side.

How Can I Prepare and Season Grilled Vegetables?

Preparing and seasoning grilled vegetables can enhance their flavor and make them the perfect side dish for any meal.

• Selecting the Right Vegetables: Choose vegetables that grill well, such as bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and mushrooms. These vegetables have a good texture that holds up to heat and develops a smoky flavor when grilled.
• Prepping the Vegetables: Wash and cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. For larger vegetables like zucchini, slicing them into thick rounds or strips can help them cook properly without falling apart on the grill.
• Marinating: Create a marinade using olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs and spices. Marinating the vegetables for at least 30 minutes before grilling can infuse them with flavor and help them achieve a nice char.
• Seasoning: In addition to marinating, sprinkle salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning blends on the vegetables before grilling. This simple step can elevate their taste and complement the natural flavors of the veggies.
• Grilling Technique: Preheat the grill and use a medium heat setting for best results. Place the vegetables directly on the grill or use a grill basket for smaller pieces, turning them occasionally until they are nicely charred and tender.
• Serving Suggestions: Once grilled, consider garnishing the vegetables with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This adds a finishing touch that enhances both presentation and flavor.

What Are the Most Popular Grilled Potato Sides?

The most popular grilled potato sides include:

• Grilled Potato Wedges: These are thick-cut potato slices seasoned with herbs and spices, then grilled until crispy. They provide a satisfying crunch and can be customized with various toppings like cheese or bacon.
• Grilled Potato Skewers: Cubes of potatoes threaded onto skewers, often mixed with vegetables like bell peppers and onions. This method allows for even cooking and makes for a colorful, visually appealing side dish.
• Grilled Hasselback Potatoes: These are whole potatoes sliced partially through, creating a fan-like appearance that allows for crispy edges. They are often brushed with garlic butter and herbs, enhancing their flavor and presentation.
• Grilled Smashed Potatoes: Small potatoes that are boiled until tender, then smashed and grilled for a crispy exterior. This preparation gives a delightful texture and is perfect for soaking up flavorful marinades or dips.
• Foil Packet Potatoes: Cubed potatoes mixed with seasonings and wrapped in foil before grilling. This method steams the potatoes, trapping moisture and flavor, while making cleanup easy.

How Can I Achieve Crispy Grilled Potatoes?

Coating the potatoes in oil not only adds flavor but also promotes browning and crispiness during grilling. A light coat of oil helps to prevent sticking and allows for an even distribution of heat, which is essential for achieving that desired crispy texture.

Grilling at a higher temperature ensures that the exterior of the potatoes cooks quickly, leading to a crispy texture while keeping the inside tender. This method also helps to create appealing grill marks, enhancing both the visual and textural aspects of the dish.

Waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes hold their shape well when grilled, while starchy potatoes like russets can become fluffy and crispy when cooked properly. Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for achieving your desired texture and flavor.

Cutting potatoes into uniform pieces, such as wedges or slices, allows for even cooking and a better chance for all surfaces to become crispy. Ensuring that pieces are similar in size helps them cook at the same rate, preventing some from being overcooked or undercooked.

Adding herbs, spices, and salt before grilling enhances flavor and can help create a crispy crust when the potatoes are cooked correctly. Seasoning not only improves taste but can also aid in the caramelization process, contributing to that sought-after crunch.

What Unique Variations of Grilled Potatoes Can I Try?

There are several unique variations of grilled potatoes you can try that will enhance your grilling experience:

• Garlic Herb Grilled Potatoes: These potatoes are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs before grilling. This method infuses the potatoes with aromatic flavors and creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior.
• Spicy Cajun Grilled Potatoes: Tossing potato wedges in a blend of Cajun spices before grilling adds a delightful kick to your dish. The heat from the spices caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a flavorful crust that contrasts with the tender potato inside.
• Parmesan Crusted Grilled Potatoes: Coating sliced potatoes with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs before grilling results in a crunchy, cheesy outer layer. The cheese melts slightly during cooking, adding richness and depth to every bite.
• Sweet Potato Skewers: Cubing sweet potatoes and threading them onto skewers allows for easy grilling and flipping. Tossed in a mixture of maple syrup and cinnamon, these skewers can provide a sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs well with grilled meats.
• Greek Style Grilled Potatoes: Marinating potatoes in olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano gives them a refreshing Mediterranean flavor. Grilling them until they are charred enhances their taste and makes for a perfect side dish to any grilled meat.
• Loaded Grilled Potato Halves: Slicing potatoes in half and grilling them topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions turns them into a hearty side. The grilling process melts the toppings while the potato remains soft and warm, creating a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

What Are the Best Grilled Salad Combinations?

Some of the best grilled salad combinations include a variety of vegetables and toppings that enhance flavor and texture.

• Grilled Caesar Salad: This classic salad is elevated by grilling romaine lettuce, which adds a smoky flavor. Typically topped with homemade croutons and a creamy Caesar dressing, it can also include grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Grilled Vegetable Salad: A combination of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can be tossed with olive oil and herbs before grilling. Once charred, they can be served over mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing yet hearty dish.
• Caprese Salad with Grilled Tomatoes: Grilling tomatoes intensifies their sweetness and adds a unique flavor. Layer grilled tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and basil, then drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a delicious twist on the traditional Caprese salad.
• Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: Grilled peaches bring out natural sugars, offering a sweet contrast to the peppery arugula. Combined with feta cheese, walnuts, and a honey vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings.
• Southwestern Grilled Corn Salad: Grilled corn on the cob becomes the star of this salad, combined with black beans, diced red onion, and cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of chili powder create a vibrant and flavorful dish that pairs well with grilled meats.

How Can I Create a Flavorful Grilled Salad?

Grilled salads can be a delicious and healthy side to complement any meal, and there are several key ingredients to consider.

• Grilled Vegetables: Grilling vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Cut them into thick slices or spears for even grilling, and toss them with olive oil, salt, and your favorite herbs before placing them on the grill.
• Fresh Greens: Using sturdy greens such as romaine, kale, or spinach can hold up well to grilling. Lightly brushing them with olive oil and grilling them for a minute or two can give them a unique char and a delicious depth of flavor.
• Fruits: Grilled fruits like peaches, pineapples, and watermelon add a sweet and juicy contrast to the savory elements of the salad. Slice the fruits thickly, grill them until caramelized, and then combine them with greens and nuts for a refreshing touch.
• Cheese: Adding grilled cheese such as halloumi or feta can elevate a salad by providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. These cheeses can be cut into thick slices and grilled until golden brown, offering a delightful contrast to the crunchy vegetables.
• Nuts and Seeds: Toasted nuts and seeds, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds, add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to your grilled salad. You can toast them on the grill in a small pan or wrap them in foil for a few minutes until they become fragrant.
• Dressings: A flavorful dressing is essential to tie all the components together. Consider a balsamic vinaigrette or a citrus-based dressing that complements the smoky flavors from the grill and adds brightness to the salad.

Which Ingredients Make Grilled Salads Stand Out?

The best sides to grill that make grilled salads stand out include a variety of flavorful ingredients.

• Grilled Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add a smoky flavor and tender texture when grilled. Their natural sweetness intensifies with the heat, providing a delightful contrast in a salad.
• Grilled Fruits: Pineapple, peaches, and strawberries can enhance salads with their juicy sweetness and caramelized edges. Grilling fruits adds depth and complexity, making salads more exciting and flavorful.
• Cheese: Feta, goat cheese, or halloumi can be grilled to create a warm, melty texture that complements the crunchy vegetables. The rich, creamy notes of grilled cheese elevate the taste profile of any salad.
• Nuts and Seeds: Toasted walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Grilling nuts can enhance their natural oils, making them even more aromatic and delicious in a salad.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint can be lightly grilled or charred to release their essential oils. Grilled herbs add a unique flavor punch and aroma, making salads vibrant and fresh.
• Protein Options: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can turn a salad into a hearty meal. Adding grilled protein not only enhances the nutritional value but also contributes savory flavors that meld beautifully with the salad ingredients.

What Types of Bread Can I Grill?

When it comes to grilling, several types of bread can enhance your meal with their unique textures and flavors:

• Ciabatta: This rustic Italian bread has a chewy crust and an open crumb structure, making it perfect for grilling. When grilled, it develops a delightful smoky flavor while maintaining a soft interior, ideal for sandwiches or bruschetta.
• Baguette: The classic French baguette is long and thin, with a crispy crust and light, airy interior. Grilling slices of baguette quickly caramelizes the sugars in the crust, creating a crunchy exterior that pairs wonderfully with dips or as a base for toppings.
• Sourdough: With its tangy flavor and thick crust, sourdough bread is excellent for grilling. The unique fermentation process gives it a robust taste, and grilling enhances its texture, making it a fantastic option for sandwiches or served with soups.
• Pita Bread: This Middle Eastern flatbread is perfect for grilling due to its pocket-like structure. Grilling pita bread gives it a slightly charred flavor and a crisp texture, making it a great vessel for dips like hummus or as a wrap for grilled meats and vegetables.
• Focaccia: This Italian flatbread is rich with olive oil and often topped with herbs, making it flavorful and aromatic. Grilling focaccia can create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft, making it a delicious side or base for various toppings.
• Hamburger Buns: Specifically designed for grilling, hamburger buns are soft and fluffy, perfect for holding a juicy burger. When grilled, they gain a slight char and crispness that enhances the overall eating experience.

How Can I Choose the Best Bread for Grilling?

When choosing the best bread for grilling, consider the following options:

• Baguette: A classic choice for grilling, baguettes are long, thin loaves that provide a crispy crust and a soft interior. They are perfect for toasting and can be sliced into smaller pieces for easy handling and serving with dips or spreads.
• Sourdough: Known for its tangy flavor and chewy texture, sourdough holds up well on the grill. Its robust crust adds a delightful crunch when grilled, making it ideal for sandwiches or as a side to accompany grilled meats and vegetables.
• Ciabatta: This Italian bread features an airy, open crumb and a crispy crust, making it suitable for grilling. Its texture allows it to grill evenly, and it can be used for paninis or served alongside grilled items to soak up juices and flavors.
• Pita Bread: Pita is versatile and can be grilled for a quick, easy side. When grilled, it puffs up and becomes soft, making it great for filling with grilled meats and veggies or serving as a dipper for sauces.
• Flatbreads: These come in various styles, including naan and lavash, and are excellent for grilling due to their thinness. They cook quickly and can be topped with ingredients before grilling, resulting in a delicious, crispy base for various toppings.

What Simple Toppings Can I Use to Enhance Grilled Bread?

Some simple yet delicious toppings to enhance grilled bread include:

• Olive Oil and Sea Salt: Drizzling high-quality olive oil over grilled bread adds a rich flavor, while a sprinkle of coarse sea salt enhances the taste and provides a delightful crunch.
• Garlic Butter: A mixture of melted butter and minced garlic spread on warm grilled bread creates a fragrant and savory topping that complements the smoky flavor of the bread perfectly.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can be scattered on grilled bread to provide an aromatic and vibrant touch, making the dish feel fresh and lively.
• Tomato and Basil: Topping grilled bread with fresh tomatoes and basil creates a classic bruschetta-style treat, adding juiciness and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy texture of the bread.
• Cheese: Melting cheese such as mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese on grilled bread adds creaminess and depth of flavor, turning it into a satisfying and indulgent side.
• Avocado: Sliced or smashed avocado on grilled bread introduces a creamy texture and healthy fats, and can be enhanced with lime juice and chili flakes for an extra kick.
• Honey and Ricotta: A spread of ricotta cheese topped with a drizzle of honey offers a sweet and creamy contrast, ideal for those who enjoy a sweet-savory combination on their grilled bread.

What Unique and Creative Sides Can Be Grilled?

Some of the best sides to grill include a variety of vegetables and unique items that enhance any barbecue meal.

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn enhances its sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. You can grill it in the husk or directly on the grates, and it pairs perfectly with butter, spices, or fresh herbs.
• Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers can be stuffed with rice, beans, cheese, or meats, then grilled to create a deliciously charred side dish. The grilling process helps the flavors meld together while adding a slight crunch to the pepper’s exterior.
• Grilled Asparagus: Asparagus holds up well on the grill and becomes tender with a slight char when cooked. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling to enhance their natural flavor.
• Grilled Avocado: Cutting avocados in half and grilling them brings out their creamy texture and adds a unique smoky flavor. They can be served as a side or used to top other dishes, making them versatile and delicious.
• Grilled Potatoes: Potatoes can be parboiled and then grilled for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Season with herbs or garlic for an elevated taste, and they make a hearty complement to any main dish.
• Grilled Watermelon: While unconventional, grilling watermelon caramelizes its sugars and enhances its sweetness. It can be served as a refreshing side or even topped with feta cheese and mint for an unexpected salad.
• Grilled Zucchini and Squash: These vegetables are quick to cook and can be sliced into rounds or strips for easy grilling. They absorb marinades beautifully and can be seasoned with various herbs for added flavor.
• Grilled Mushrooms: Larger mushrooms like portobellos can be marinated and grilled to create a meaty, savory side. The grill enhances their umami flavor and gives them a satisfying texture that pairs well with many dishes.

How Can I Grill Fruits for a Distinctive Flavor?

Grilling fruits can enhance their natural sweetness and create a unique flavor profile, making them excellent side dishes.

• Peaches: Grilling peaches caramelizes their sugars and intensifies their sweetness, making them a delightful addition to savory dishes or desserts.
• Pineapple: The high sugar content in pineapple makes it ideal for grilling, as it takes on a smoky flavor and becomes wonderfully tender.
• Watermelon: Grilled watermelon offers a surprising, savory twist; the grilling process enhances its juiciness while adding a hint of char.
• Bell Peppers: While technically a fruit, grilling bell peppers brings out their sweetness and adds a smoky depth, perfect for salads or as a side dish.
• Bananas: When grilled, bananas become soft and caramelized, perfect for serving with ice cream or as a topping for pancakes.

Grilling peaches caramelizes their sugars and intensifies their sweetness, making them a delightful addition to savory dishes or desserts. The grill’s heat enhances their juicy texture and adds a smokiness that pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on their own with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

The high sugar content in pineapple makes it ideal for grilling, as it takes on a smoky flavor and becomes wonderfully tender. Grilled pineapple can be served as a side with pork or chicken, or it can be used in salsas and salads for an added tropical twist.

Grilled watermelon offers a surprising, savory twist; the grilling process enhances its juiciness while adding a hint of char. This unique preparation can be served as a refreshing side dish, drizzled with balsamic reduction or combined with feta cheese for a gourmet salad.

While technically a fruit, grilling bell peppers brings out their sweetness and adds a smoky depth, perfect for salads or as a side dish. Their vibrant colors and flavors make them an attractive choice that complements grilled meats and can be used in various recipes, including fajitas or pasta dishes.

When grilled, bananas become soft and caramelized, perfect for serving with ice cream or as a topping for pancakes. This method enhances their natural sweetness, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of desserts or as a sweet addition to breakfast dishes.

What Are Innovative Grilled Cheese Options I Can Explore?

There are several innovative grilled cheese options that can elevate your sandwich experience:

• Caprese Grilled Cheese: This variation combines fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, creating a delightful flavor reminiscent of the classic Caprese salad.
• Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese: Incorporating shredded buffalo chicken and creamy blue cheese dressing, this option adds a spicy kick to the traditional grilled cheese.
• Apple and Cheddar Grilled Cheese: The sweetness of sliced apples paired with sharp cheddar creates a perfect balance of flavors, making this a unique and satisfying choice.
• Pesto and Spinach Grilled Cheese: This option features fresh spinach and basil pesto, providing a fresh, herbaceous twist that complements the gooey cheese.
• Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese: Combining two favorites, this sandwich features creamy mac and cheese sandwiched between slices of buttery bread for ultimate comfort food.
• Brie and Fig Grilled Cheese: The rich creaminess of brie paired with sweet fig jam offers a gourmet experience that is both savory and sweet.

The Caprese Grilled Cheese takes a classic Italian salad and turns it into a sandwich, layering fresh mozzarella, slices of juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil leaves between crispy bread. This combination not only tastes fresh but also provides a colorful presentation.

The Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat; it features shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, melted cheese, and a drizzle of blue cheese dressing, creating a deliciously messy yet satisfying bite.

In the Apple and Cheddar Grilled Cheese, the tartness of the apples enhances the sharpness of aged cheddar, resulting in a sandwich that is both sweet and savory, ideal for fall flavors.

Pesto and Spinach Grilled Cheese introduces fresh greens and aromatic pesto into the mix, adding nutritional value and a vibrant flavor that elevates the classic grilled cheese to new heights.

The Mac and Cheese Grilled Cheese is a fun and indulgent twist, featuring a layer of creamy macaroni and cheese sandwiched between buttery, crispy bread, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Finally, the Brie and Fig Grilled Cheese combines the creamy, rich texture of brie cheese with the sweetness of fig jam, resulting in a sophisticated sandwich that is perfect for a fancy brunch or a cozy evening at home.

Related Post:

• Best grill temp for brat
• Best oil for grilling steak
• Best pellet grill for pizza
• Best island grill
• Best steam grill brush