Let’s face it—everyone talks about the main dish, but it’s the side dishes that often leave people asking for seconds. Whether you’re throwing a backyard barbecue or just cooking dinner for your family, the right sides can really make your meal shine.
From juicy corn to crispy vegetables, cooking on an open flame adds flavor you just can’t get from your oven. But how do you make those side dishes exciting enough to stand out? Here are ten easy and fun tips to help your sides steal the spotlight.
1. Don’t Overlook the Power of Marinades
A good marinade can turn any vegetable into something special. All it takes is a little oil, lemon juice, garlic, or even soy sauce. Let your veggies soak for 20–30 minutes before cooking, and they’ll have much more flavor. Marinated mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant absorb seasoning quickly and taste richer. You don’t need anything fancy—just mix what you already have in your kitchen and give your vegetables a quick soak. Simple and tasty.
2. Try Grilled Greens
Leafy greens aren’t just for salads—they belong on your cooking grate, too. Greens like romaine, kale, or baby bok choy get a slightly crisp texture on the edges while staying tender inside. Just brush them with oil, sprinkle a little salt, and cook them until the leaves darken slightly. It’s quick, healthy, and a great way to use up extra greens in your fridge. One favorite that stands out is grilled bok choy. Simply slice baby bok choy in half, brush it with oil, and cook for a few minutes until the edges start charing. Finish it with a drizzle of lime juice and soy sauce. The result is a bright, zesty side with a smoky bite—easy to make and packed with flavor, just like the version shared on Dad Cooks Dinner.
3. Play with Texture
Different textures can make your side dishes more exciting. You want that mix of soft and crispy. For example, cook broccolini until the stalks are tender, but the tops are slightly crispy. The contrast makes each bite more interesting. After cooking, you can even sprinkle some toasted seeds or crushed nuts. It’s all about giving your vegetables a little personality and crunch.
4. Balance the Plate with Color and Contrast
A colorful plate always looks more inviting. Mix up your vegetable choices by combining bright red peppers, yellow squash, and green beans. These not only taste good but also add visual appeal to your spread. The different shapes and colors naturally make your dish look more exciting. Plus, using seasonal produce adds freshness and variety without much effort. The more color you add, the more your table pops.
5. Grill Fruit for Sweet-Savory Combinations
Fruits like pineapple, peaches, and even watermelon can taste amazing with a little heat. The natural sugars in the fruit caramelize and bring out a deeper flavor. These pair really well with salty or spicy items like feta cheese or chili flakes. You can even use them as toppings for other side dishes. It’s a fun twist that balances the savory with a touch of sweetness—perfect for summer meals.
6. Use Skewers to Control Cooking and Presentation
Skewers aren’t just for meat. They’re also great for cooking small or unevenly sized vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini slices. When veggies are grouped on a stick, they cook evenly and are easier to flip. Skewers also make serving simpler and look great on a platter. You can get creative by mixing colors and shapes and even add fruit or cheese for fun. It’s a smart way to avoid losing food between the grates.
7. Don’t Forget a Finishing Touch
A squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of sauce can make a huge difference. After your veggies come off the heat, they’re ready to soak up a finishing touch. Simple additions like pesto, tahini sauce, or garlic butter can add bold flavors without extra cooking time. Even fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or chives can level up the final dish. These little extras are easy to prepare ahead of time and bring out the best in your sides.
8. Grill Bread or Flatbreads Alongside the Veggies
Cooking bread or flatbreads next to your veggies saves time and adds a cozy, toasty element to the meal. Slices of sourdough, naan, or pita get slightly crispy on the outside while staying soft inside. You can brush them with oil or garlic butter for extra flavor. These are perfect for dipping into sauces or scooping up pieces of grilled veggies. Plus, everyone loves warm bread—especially when it’s fresh from the heat.
9. Serve Sides Family-Style for a Shared Experience
There’s something fun about passing around big bowls of food. Serving family-style sides keeps things casual and encourages everyone to try a little bit of everything. Use large platters or wooden boards to pile up your veggies and fruit. If you’re hosting a larger group, label the dishes with small cards or tags so guests know what they’re eating. This setup makes the meal feel more inviting and festive without much extra effort.
10. Make-Ahead Prep Keeps You Out of the Kitchen
Spending less time prepping during mealtime means more time enjoying your guests. Chop vegetables, mix marinades, or prep sauces the night before. You can also par-cook some items ahead of time so they finish faster when you’re ready to cook. Keeping things simple and organized helps everything run smoothly. A little planning goes a long way—and you’ll thank yourself when the grill is hot and your friends are hungry.
Side dishes may not always get the attention they deserve, but when done right, they can completely change the way people remember your meal. You can create something memorable with just a few tweaks—like using fresh greens, adding color, or throwing fruit on the heat. Even simple dishes done right can earn top billing at your next get-together. These tips are easy to follow and sure to make your table a hit. Try a few and let your sides take center stage.