8 Cook-Out Side Dishes

Though the main star of most barbecues and cook-outs is the meat or protein being fired up on the grill, side dishes also contribute to the overall enjoyment of the meal. While salads are great to serve, the plethora of creative side dishes often gets forgotten in favor of these green-dressed meals. For instance, have you ever thought of quickly grilling some figs or hearts of palms? Or maybe you opt for a Asian-inspired cole slaw with creamy peanut dressing instead. The options are endless, but unfortunately, summer is not. So get out there and start cooking! 

If you have any go-to sides of your own or family secrets, we'd love to know! 

 

Spicy Cranberry Beans

I love cooking fresh cranberry beans when I find them at the farmers market in summer, but I make this dish all year round with dried ones...

— Colman Andrews

 

Red Wine-Soaked Portobellos

These big, juicy mushrooms are a wonderful accompaniment to your favorite straight-off-the-grill fare.

— Maryse Chevriere

 

Watermelon with Mint and Feta

Taste like summer! I promise you'll say the same after tasting this easy and refreshing dish. 

— Alexis Anderson

 

Grilled Hearts of Palm

I love hearts of palm — straight out of the jar, sliced up in salads, or grilled with a little cheese on top... 

— Yasmin Fahr

 

Nutted Brown Rice with Grapes and Scallions

Growing up, my family would always make a nutted wild rice with pecans, raisins, and mint...

— Allison Beck

 

Coleslaw with Peanut Dressing

This cook-out side could not be easier to make... 

— Molly Aronica

 

 

Grilled Figs

You can practically grill anything and everything, and I usually try...

— Arthur Bovino

 

 

Grilled Vegetables with Chickpeas and Bulgur Wheat

You could liken this dish to a healthy mac 'n' cheese with veggies.

 — Valaer Murray