A spectacular BBQ is about more than just grilling the perfect steak or marinating a delicious chicken thigh. The sides you serve can elevate your BBQ from great to outstanding. As the Australian su
mer rolls in, we’ve curated a list of top 5 side dishes that will complement any BBQ menu, ensuring every meal becomes a delightful culinary experience.
1. Classic Aussie Coleslaw
Ingredients:
- White cabbage, finely shredded
- Carrot, grated
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- A handful of parsley, chopped
- Coleslaw dressing or mayonnaise
Method: Combine all the veggies in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing, toss well, and refrigerate before serving.
2. Grilled Corn with Herb Butter
Ingredients:
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Butter, softened
- Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or coriander), finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method: Mix the herbs into the softened butter. Grill the corn until slightly charred, then brush generously with herb butter.
3. Aussie Potato Salad
Ingredients:
- Potatoes, boiled and cubed
- Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Spring onions, sliced
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method: Mix potatoes, eggs, and spring onions in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix the dressing with the potato mixture and chill before serving.
4. Roasted Capsicum and Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- Capsicums of various colours, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Olives, pitted and sliced
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Fresh basil, torn
Method: Toss the capsicum slices in olive oil and grill them until they’re slightly charred. Once cooled, mix with olives and feta in a bowl. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, top with fresh basil, and serve.
5. Fresh Summer Fruit Platter
Ingredients:
- A selection of summer fruits such as watermelon, strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries
- Fresh mint leaves
- Lime or lemon zest for garnish
Method: Arrange the sliced fruits on a large plate. Sprinkle with fresh mint leaves and garnish with some lime or lemon zest for an extra zing.
Side dishes, often overshadowed by the main grilling event, play a vital role in making your BBQ spread complete. These summer side recipes, bursting with freshness and flavour, will not only satisfy your guests but also provide a vibrant visual feast. So, next time you fire up your BBQ from Home Fires, make sure you’ve got a few of these sides on your menu. Happy grilling, and enjoy the Aussie summer!