8 Healthy BBQ Side Dishes To Make This Summer
By: Klara Knezevic RD, LD
I have to say that my one of my favorite things about summer is cooking outside. The summer breeze, a cool drink in your hand? What is not to love? BBQs and picnics are a great way to get outside, enjoy the weather and spend time with friends and family. Traditional BBQ dishes can range anywhere from salad, baked beans, potato salad, and plenty of desserts. I asked our dietitians to tell me what their favorite healthy BBQ side dishes were when planning for their summer festivities, check out their responses!
1. Grilled Panzanella Salad
Panzanella salad is a great way to use up any leftover bread you might have in your kitchen, and it makes a delicious and healthy side dish! Check out the recipe here.
2. Lentil Salad
Lentils are a common ingredient used in Southeast Asian style cooking and are a great source of protein. Our lentil salad uses tomatoes and cucumbers, both which are in season during the summer! Top with some feta cheese for a yummy salad. Recipe here.
3. Baked Beans
Who doesn’t love a good helping of baked beans with a hamburger? Beans themselves are a great source of fiber, which can help keep your regular, and keep your cholesterol down. However, canned baked beans can often be high in sugar and salt. Check out our version, that features a surprising ingredient! Recipe here.
4. Lightened Up Coleslaw
Another BBQ favorite, but can often be high in saturated fat and sodium! Our version uses greek yogurt, which cuts down on the fat, and increases the protein! Recipe here.
5. Chickpea Tomato Salad
Chickpeas are another great source of fiber, and are the main ingredient in hummus! Our taste side dish uses chickpeas, tomatoes and cucumbers to make a delicious, mediterranean side dish. Check out the recipe here.
6. Mexican Street Corn Salad
Traditionally, Mexican street corn is grilled corn on the cob, that is covered in crema, queso fresco and some cayenne. This salad combines all of that into a simple, easy to make salad! Get the recipe here.
7. Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
This delicious and refreshing salad comes together in minutes, and pairs well with almost anything! Serve with grilled chicken and fish for a light summer meal. Recipe here.
8. Grilled Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a traditional french side dish, that is chock full of veggies! Plus side, making it on the grill means that you don’t need to dirty another dish! Recipe here.
Do you want more ideas on dishes to make for your next BBQ?
Check out some of our other favorite grilling recipes here and here! Some of our favorites include Brick Chicken, BBQ shrimp skewers, grilled avocado caprese salad and balsamic veggie sandwiches!
Need dessert ideas? We have you covered! Check out out latest blog that has plenty of healthy dessert options for your next BBQ.
If you would like help planning your next meals for your next BBQ, make an appointment with one of our dietitians by clicking here or calling 301-474-2499.