21 Summer BBQ Sides That Always Disappear First

These sides are BBQ favorites because they complement grilled meats perfectly, are refreshing in hot weather, can be prepared ahead of time, and offer a nice balance of flavors and textures. The cold salads are especially popular since they provide relief from the summer heat, while the grilled items add that perfect smoky flavor that pairs so well with barbecue.

Homemade Potato Salad

Homemade Potato Salad
Homemade Potato Salad. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Discover pure comfort in every bite of this creamy potato salad. Tender potatoes and eggs combine with crisp vegetables in a rich dressing that puts store-bought versions to shame. Ready in minutes, it’s the perfect side dish for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Potato Salad

Lemony Grilled Potato Salad

Lemony Grilled Potato Salad
Lemony Grilled Potato Salad. Photo credit: Stetted.

Elevate your summer cookouts with this zesty twist on tradition! Tangy lemon brightens up smoky grilled potatoes, creating a refreshing side dish that’s anything but ordinary. It’s the perfect companion for your backyard barbecues.
Get the Recipe: Lemony Grilled Potato Salad

German Potato Salad

German Potato Salad
German Potato Salad. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

This tangy German potato salad combines tender potatoes with a warm, flavorful dressing that perfectly balances savory and sour notes. A beloved traditional recipe that brings comfort to any table and pairs beautifully with your favorite main dishes.
Get the Recipe: German Potato Salad

Roasted Garlic & Red Skin Potato Salad

Roasted Garlic & Red Skin Potato Salad
Roasted Garlic & Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

This garlic-infused potato salad transforms the classic dish into something extraordinary. With perfectly roasted garlic in every bite, it’s the ideal companion for your next outdoor gathering or barbecue feast. Creamy, flavorful and utterly irresistible!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Garlic & Red Skin Potato Salad

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Tender inside, crispy outside smashed potatoes get elevated with sweet roasted garlic and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. This refreshing twist on potato salad brings irresistible texture and bright flavors to your table. A true crowd-pleaser you’ll make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Tortellini Caprese Salad

Tortellini Caprese Salad
Tortellini Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

Dive into the flavors of summer with this effortless Tortellini Caprese Salad. Juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil combine with cheese-filled pasta for a refreshing vegetarian meal ready in minutes. A perfect light option that doesn’t sacrifice satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Caprese Salad

Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese Salad Skewers
Caprese Salad Skewers. Photo credit: Feast and West.

Elevate your summer entertaining with these elegant caprese skewers! Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella paired with fragrant basil and drizzled with balsamic create bite-sized flavor explosions perfect for any gathering. A simple yet sophisticated appetizer that will impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad Skewers

Watermelon Feta Salad with Fried Scallops

Watermelon Feta Salad with Fried Scallops
Watermelon Feta Salad with Fried Scallops. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

Enjoy summer’s perfect pairing with this refreshing watermelon feta salad. Juicy melon mingles with creamy cheese, while crispy cornmeal-fried bay scallops add a delightful crunch. A sweet balsamic drizzle ties everything together in this irresistible seasonal dish.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Feta Salad with Fried Scallops

Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad
Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This vibrant pasta salad combines al dente rotini with garden-fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty homemade Italian dressing. A perfect make-ahead dish that gets better overnight, it’s sure to be the star of your next summer gathering or family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Cracker Barrel Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad

Cracker Barrel Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad
Cracker Barrel Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Experience the vibrant flavors of our Cracker Barrel copycat cucumber tomato onion salad. This light, refreshing side dish combines crisp vegetables with a tangy Italian dressing that perfectly complements any meal. It’s the ideal summer companion you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad

Easy Homemade Coleslaw From Scratch

Easy Homemade Coleslaw From Scratch
Easy Homemade Coleslaw From Scratch. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Discover the secret to perfect homemade coleslaw that’s both creamy and refreshingly crisp. This quick 10-minute recipe uses simple pantry staples and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. The ultimate side dish for your next barbecue or family dinner!
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Coleslaw From Scratch

Make-Ahead Refrigerator Coleslaw: A Crisp, Tangy Side That Gets Better With Time

Make-Ahead Refrigerator Coleslaw: A Crisp, Tangy Side That Gets Better With Time
Make-Ahead Refrigerator Coleslaw: A Crisp, Tangy Side That Gets Better With Time. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Discover the ultimate make-ahead coleslaw that maintains its crunch for weeks! This no-mayo recipe uses a simple oil and vinegar dressing that keeps cabbage perfectly crisp. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a reliable side dish that won’t wilt.
Get the Recipe: Make-Ahead Refrigerator Coleslaw: A Crisp, Tangy Side That Gets Better With Time

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This addictive Mexican street corn salad blends crisp, sweet corn with creamy crema and just the right kick of spice. Every bite delivers authentic flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more. Perfect for summer gatherings or a flavorful side dish!
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Black Bean and Corn Salad
Black Bean and Corn Salad. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

This vibrant salad combines sweet corn, hearty black beans, and juicy cherry tomatoes in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing. It’s refreshing, protein-packed, and perfect for summer gatherings—ready in minutes with no cooking required!
Get the Recipe: Black Bean and Corn Salad

BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon

BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon
BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Elevate your cookout with these irresistible BBQ baked beans. Sweet, smoky and loaded with crispy bacon, this easy recipe transforms canned beans into a crowd-pleasing side dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. The perfect addition to your summer table!
Get the Recipe: BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon

Grilled Veggies

Grilled Veggies
Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Savor the perfect char and crispy texture of these irresistible grilled vegetables. They shine as a satisfying vegetarian main or complement your favorite grilled meats beautifully. Each bite delivers smoky, caramelized flavor that transforms ordinary veggies into something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies

Classic Three Bean Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes)

Classic Three Bean Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes)
Classic Three Bean Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes). Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This classic trio of beans tossed in a zesty vinaigrette brings vibrant color and protein-packed goodness to any table. Make it ahead for enhanced flavors – perfect alongside grilled meats or as a standout potluck contribution that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Classic Three Bean Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes)

Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs
Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in these irresistible deviled eggs that combine the rich flavors of creamy filling, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon and zesty ranch. Perfect for your next gathering, this low-carb treat will have guests coming back for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad

Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad
Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

This vibrant summer salad celebrates the season’s bounty with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Simple yet bursting with fresh flavors, it’s the perfect side dish for your backyard barbecues or a light lunch on warm afternoons.
Get the Recipe: Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad

Easy Garlic Bread

Easy Garlic Bread
Easy Garlic Bread . Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Bring the taste of New Orleans home with this incredible garlic bread recipe straight from legendary Brennan’s Restaurant. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and drenched in a mouthwatering garlic butter blend that will transport your taste buds to the French Quarter with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Garlic Bread

Fresh Fruit Platter with Dips

Fresh Fruit Platter with Dips
Fresh Fruit Platter with Dips. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Transform your next gathering with a stunning fruit platter! Learn the secrets to perfectly preparing fresh fruits and discover three irresistible dip recipes that will have your guests coming back for more. Elevate your entertaining game with these simple yet impressive crowd-pleasers.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Platter with Dips

About Stephanie Manley

Stephanie Manley is the creator of CopyKat.com. She has been recreating copycat recipes since 1995. Learn more about Stephanie Manley.

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