Our Guide to Grilling Sides

Sure, we all feel comfortable around a grill and a hot dog/bun/chicken breast, but even the best of us starts doubting our skills when we start talking potatoes and romaine. This summer, we’re thinking about grilling all our meals from brunch and lunch to dinner and dessert, so let’s calm your nerves and cover how to do side dishes.

Updated May 2, 2017

Sure, we all feel comfortable around a grill and a hot dog/bun/chicken breast, but even the best of us starts doubting our skills when we start talking potatoes and romaine.

This summer, we’re thinking about grilling all our meals from brunch and lunch to dinner and dessert, so let’s calm your nerves and cover how to do side dishes.

Marinated Summer Squash Grilling Packs
Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro-Lime Dressing

Equipment to Have on Hand

  • For more delicate side options (tomatoes, green onions, lettuces, etc.) a fine grill grate tray or grill basket is a lifesaver.

  • Skewers are handy for wrangling smaller items like tomatoes and grapes.

  • Long handled tongs are great for the frequent turning you’ll need to do.

  • If grill marks aren’t a requirement, consider making a cooking packet with parchment paper and aluminum foil.

Techniques to Master

  • Many items will need to be precooked before heading to the grill in order to ensure they reach tender perfection before they burn. Potatoes, beets and carrots all fit into this category. 

  • Though veggies such as summer squash, mushrooms and onions don’t need to be precooked, cutting them down to roughly equal sizes will help with even cooking.

  • Try grilling ears of corn with the husks on to gently steam the kernels, then remove the husk and quickly toss the corn on the fire to achieve a few grill marks.

  • For the most part, side dishes will cook more quickly than protein items, so keep a close eye on the grill and maintain a medium (about 350°F) to medium-hot (about 400°F) grill temperature.

Grilled Potato Salad

Grilled Tomato and Romaine Salad

Recipe Ideas to Try

We dare you to keep that flame hot and explore all these fun options. Grill your salad, bread and sandwiches.

Mexican-Style Grilled Corn

Grilled Goat Cheese and Artichoke Toasties

Do you have any tips for grilling side dishes? Share your suggestions for grilling your sides and any recipe ideas in the comments section below.

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