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9 Creative Sides For a Barbecue

Best BBQ Side Dishes

9 Creative Sides For a Barbecue

Best BBQ Side Dishes
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry

Now's the perfect time to head outdoors and fire up the grates for a Summer cookout. You could go for the classic sides — or take the lazy way out and grab some bags of chips — but putting in some extra effort won't go unnoticed by your guests, who are looking forward to what you'll be heating up on the grill! Check out nine less-conventional sides that will have everyone impressed.

— Additional reporting by Lizzie Fuhr

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Southeast Asian Gazpacho

Southeast Asian Gazpacho
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry

Take advantage of tomato season, and cool down with a fresh gazpacho soup, perfect for the warmer weather and a great introduction to your grilled dishes.

1 / 9

Sesame-Roasted Asparagus With Wasabi Vinaigrette

Sesame-Roasted Asparagus With Wasabi Vinaigrette
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry

Wasabi adds a clear burst of spice wherever it's used, and with this recipe, it's no different. A wasabi vinaigrette makes this standard asparagus side stand out, and it's great served at room temperature.

2 / 9

Grilled Flatbread Stuffed With Herbs and Cheese

Grilled Flatbread Stuffed With Herbs and Cheese
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lauren Hendrickson

You've already got the grill out, so why not cook up some warm flatbread stuffed with herbs and cheese? This will pair wonderfully with your other grilled goods!

3 / 9

Sesame Soba Noodle Salad

Sesame Soba Noodle Salad
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry

Perfect for feeding a large group, this soba noodle salad is stocked with fresh vegetables and topped with a flavorful sesame-ginger dressing.

4 / 9

Minty Spring Salad

Minty Spring Salad
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lauren Hendrickson

The first lady knows her way around the kitchen — and this crisp mint pea salad is a testament to that! This recipe, inspired by Michelle Obama's dish in her book American Grown ($30), is a lighter side for your BBQ meal.

5 / 9

Sun-Dried-Tomato Pasta Salad

Sun-Dried-Tomato Pasta Salad
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry

An al dente dish is perfect in the heat, and this sun-dried-tomato pasta, kept at room temperature, can serve your many guests while staying fresh.

6 / 9

Sesame-Carrot Salad

Sesame-Carrot Salad
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry

We can't get enough of Louisa Shafia's recipe for sesame-carrot salad. It's a great way to bring a Persian sensibility to your all-American table.

7 / 9

Grilled Fava Beans

Grilled Fava Beans
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Susannah Chen

Simple and clean grilled fava beans are a delicious addition to a heavy meal.

8 / 9

Ribboned Vegetable Salad

Ribboned Vegetable Salad
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Camilla Salem

This bright ribboned vegetable salad would be a beautiful addition to any late-Spring soiree. It's easy to put together the night before; just dress it before your guests arrive!

9 / 9
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