29 Healthy BBQ Sides You'll Love

Brenda Bennett
·3-min read

Memorial Day may be the unofficial start of the summer season and Labor Day may be the end, but there are so many other summer weekends, holidays and get-togethers worthy of a BBQ! There's no time like the present to start planning your summer BBQ menus for delicious outdoor parties with friends and family.

All these healthy BBQ side dishes are easy to make ahead and take with you wherever you go. While some should stay chilled for best results, many can be enjoyed at room temperature, giving you plenty of time to fire up the grill once all of the sides are prepared.

Related: 60 Easy Grilling Recipes to Make This Summer

What Healthy Sides Go With BBQ Chicken, Steak & Fish?

Healthy BBQ Side Dishes

Make-ahead side dishes like these are great if you're preparing sides for a crowd because they leave plenty of time to enjoy the barbecue and not stress about the food. Salads make great sides and many of the best sides are finger foods that encourage mingling. Finish off your cookout menus with these stunning red, white and blue desserts to truly wow your guests.

<p>Teresa Blackburn</p><p>These simple, colorful veggie skewers are a beautiful way to showcase summer produce and you can change up the mix of vegetables as you like. </p><p><a href="/1211916/alison-ashton/al-roker-grilled-vegetable-skewers-recipe/" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>
<p>Mark Boughton Photography</p><p>This mayo-free potato <a href="/846514/kristamarshall/20-pasta-salads-for-summer-cookouts/" data-ylk="slk:salad recipe;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">salad recipe</a> delightfully highlights the beauty of purple potatoes, but the entire dish comes together in just 20 minutes of prep time.</p><p><a href="/842251/alisonashton/purple-parisian-potato-salad/" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>
<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>A flavorful and unique finger food perfect for BBQs!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/oven-fried-garlic-parmesan-green-beans/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

A flavorful and unique finger food perfect for BBQs!

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<p>The Pioneer Woman</p><p>Grill up some yummy marinated zucchini at your next cookout!</p><p><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2012/08/grilled-zucchini-with-yummy-lemon-salt/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

The Pioneer Woman

Grill up some yummy marinated zucchini at your next cookout!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>These ranch cauliflower bites will fly off the table at your next BBQ!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/oven-fried-ranch-cauliflower-bites-with-deans-buffalo-ranch-dip/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>
<p>Add A Pinch</p><p>Ratatouille combines the freshest summer vegetables into one delicious dish!</p><p><a href="http://addapinch.com/cooking/ratatouille-recipe/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Add A Pinch

Ratatouille combines the freshest summer vegetables into one delicious dish!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>This cucumber dill salad can be made in little time and is ready when you are for the next BBQ!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/cucumber-dill-salad-with-no-sugar-added-dressing/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>
<p>Rachel Schultz</p><p>Nothing says summer like an easy, fresh tomato and chickpea salad!</p><p><a href="http://rachelschultz.com/2013/01/19/tomato-chickpea-salad/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/23-vibrant-spring-side-dishes-204840474.html" data-ylk="slk:23 Vibrant Spring Side Dishes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link yahoo-link">23 Vibrant Spring Side Dishes </a></strong></p>
<p>Cookie & Kate</p><p>This simple, healthy and mayo-free slaw is perfect for summer potlucks!</p><p><a href="http://cookieandkate.com/2014/asian-brussels-sprout-slaw-with-carrots-and-almonds/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Cookie & Kate

This simple, healthy and mayo-free slaw is perfect for summer potlucks!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>A lighter style of coleslaw with the perfect amount of crunch!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/italian-style-coleslaw/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

A lighter style of coleslaw with the perfect amount of crunch!

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<p>Epicurious</p><p>This summery Middle Eastern dish gets a makeover with quinoa!</p><p><a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/quinoa-tabbouleh-395939" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Epicurious

This summery Middle Eastern dish gets a makeover with quinoa!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>With only 5 ingredients, these fritters are a quick-and easy finger food!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/gluten-free-zucchini-fritters/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

With only 5 ingredients, these fritters are a quick-and easy finger food!

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<p>Le Creme De La Crumb</p><p>This summer salad is packed with nutrients—and flavor!</p><p><a href="http://lecremedelacrumb.com/2014/08/bbq-ranch-quinoa-salad.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Le Creme De La Crumb

This summer salad is packed with nutrients—and flavor!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>A refreshing and easy summer side dish with a fabulous lime vinaigrette dressing!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/jicama-arugula-herb-salad-with-lime-vinaigrette/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>
<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>Portobello mushroom caps topped with fresh tomato and mozzarella will melt in your mouth!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/jicama-arugula-herb-salad-with-lime-vinaigrette/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>
<p>The Garden Grazer</p><p>A fresh and delicious alternative to pasta salad!</p><p><a href="http://www.thegardengrazer.com/2013/02/balsamic-green-bean-salad.html?m=1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/38-homemade-salad-dressing-recipes-142210634.html" data-ylk="slk:38 Salad Dressings To Elevate Your Greens;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link yahoo-link">38 Salad Dressings To Elevate Your Greens</a></strong></p>
<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>A delicious, cheesy appetizer with veggies hiding inside!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/cheddar-cauliflower-bacon-bites/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

A delicious, cheesy appetizer with veggies hiding inside!

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<p>The Blond Cook</p><p>A super-easy and healthy Greek-inspired summer salad!</p><p><a href="http://theblondcook.com/2014/06/greek-summer-salad/#_a5y_p=2060208" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

The Blond Cook

A super-easy and healthy Greek-inspired summer salad!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>Forget the mayo and try this easy, bright avocado coleslaw! </p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/mayo-free-avocado-coleslaw/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

Forget the mayo and try this easy, bright avocado coleslaw!

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<p>The Cafe Sucre Farine</p><p>This fresh, healthy and summery salad has fabulous Southwest flavor!</p><p><a href="http://thecafesucrefarine.com/2014/05/mexican-chopped-salad/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

The Cafe Sucre Farine

This fresh, healthy and summery salad has fabulous Southwest flavor!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>A perfect picky-eater-friendly finger food, without the guilt!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/broccoli-cauliflower-quinoa-bites-low-carb-gluten-free/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

A perfect picky-eater-friendly finger food, without the guilt!

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<p>The Cookie Rookie</p><p>Try this lightened-up Mexican corn at your next BBQ!</p><p><a href="http://www.thecookierookie.com/mexican-grilled-corn/#more-5070" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

The Cookie Rookie

Try this lightened-up Mexican corn at your next BBQ!

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<p>The Food Charlatan</p><p>This fast-and-fresh cucumber salad has a bit of kick!</p><p><a href="http://thefoodcharlatan.com/2014/01/06/cilantro-lime-cucumber-salad/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

The Food Charlatan

This fast-and-fresh cucumber salad has a bit of kick!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>A tangy and refreshing take on a Waldorf salad! </p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/mason-jar-spiralized-waldorf-salad/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/15-delicious-seafood-salad-recipes-191415235.html" data-ylk="slk:15 Seafood Salads;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link yahoo-link">15 Seafood Salads</a></strong></p>
<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>A healthier version of the classic 7-Layer Dip that takes guacamole to a whole new level!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/lightened-up-7-layer-dip-with-whipped-guacamole/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>
<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>Hearty and unique, these low carb portobello pizzas are sure to please!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/low-carb-portobello-pizzas/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

Hearty and unique, these low carb portobello pizzas are sure to please!

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<p>Life Currents</p><p>A gorgeous and grown up fruit salad!</p><p><a href="http://lifecurrents.dw2.net/peach-strawberry-fruit-salad/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Life Currents

A gorgeous and grown up fruit salad!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>Stuffed with fresh basil and mozzarella, this pretty dish epitomizes summer caprese salads!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/baked-cheesy-tomato-basil-cups/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

Stuffed with fresh basil and mozzarella, this pretty dish epitomizes summer caprese salads!

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<p>Sugar Free Mom</p><p>Cheesy Sweet Pepper Poppers are a perfect finger food for any summer cookout!</p><p><a href="http://www.sugarfreemom.com/recipes/low-carb-cheesy-sweet-pepper-poppers/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Get the recipe!;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Get the recipe!</a></p>

Sugar Free Mom

Cheesy Sweet Pepper Poppers are a perfect finger food for any summer cookout!

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