A successful BBQ isn’t just about the meat or seafood, it’s also about the delicious BBQ accompaniments that elevate the entire meal. From perfectly toasted burger buns to fresh salads and flavourful vegetables, the right sides can transform your BBQ from ordinary to extraordinary.
What Sides Are Good with BBQ?
Great sides to serve with BBQ include a mix of fresh and hearty options that complement grilled flavours. Burger buns are perfect for turning BBQ meats or seafood into handheld bites, especially when paired with grilled onions for extra flavour. Vegetables like corn on the cob, bell peppers and courgettes can be charred on the grill for a smoky, healthy side. Fresh salads, think coleslaw, potato salad or a crisp green mix, add balance and crunch. Don’t forget a variety of BBQ sauces, from tangy to spicy, to tie everything together and let guests customise their plates.
What Burger Buns Are Best for BBQ?
The foundation of any great burger starts with the burger bun. Choosing the right BBQ accompaniments can make all the difference:
- Classic Sesame Seed Buns: These are a popular choice for their light texture and subtle flavour that complements any burger patty.
- Brioche Buns: For a touch of luxury, brioche buns are rich and slightly sweet, offering a buttery taste that pairs perfectly with savoury burger toppings.
- Charcoal Burger Buns: They add a bold, smoky flavour and striking look that pairs perfectly with BBQ dishes.
- Vegan Burger Buns: Ideal because they’re plant-based, soft and versatile for all types of fillings.
Salads to Accompany BBQ
If you're wondering what salads go with a barbecue, there's a list for you to try:
- Coleslaw: A classic BBQ salad, coleslaw is crunchy and tangy, offering a refreshing contrast to rich, smoky meats. Opt for a vinegar-based slaw for a lighter, zesty taste or a creamy version for a more indulgent side.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a BBQ staple. Made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard and herbs, it’s a comforting and hearty side dish.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and a light vinaigrette adds a healthy and vibrant touch to your BBQ spread.
- Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad with vegetables, olives and a tangy dressing is easy to prepare and serves as a satisfying side that can be made in advance.
What Vegetables Are Good to Barbecue?
Vegetables are a delicious and healthy addition to any BBQ, adding vibrant flavours, colour and nutrition to your grill spread.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt, is a sweet and smoky treat that everyone loves.
- Bell Peppers: When grilled, they become sweet and tender, a great side or topping for burgers and sandwiches.
- Courgettes and Squash: These summer vegetables grill beautifully, offering a mild flavour and pleasant texture that complements any grilled meat or fish.
- Asparagus: Grilled asparagus spears, simply seasoned with olive oil, salt and pepper, provide a sophisticated and nutritious side dish.
- Tomatoes: Grilled tomatoes burst with juicy, concentrated flavour and pair wonderfully with both meats and seafood.
- Red Chicory: When grilled, red chicory caramelises slightly, adding a delicious bitterness and vibrant colour to your BBQ spread.
- Calcot Onions: These tender, sweet Spanish onions are perfect for grilling whole and serving with a smoky romesco sauce.
- King Oyster Mushrooms: Their meaty texture and umami-rich flavour make king oyster mushrooms an outstanding plant-based BBQ option.
BBQ Accompaniments: Which Ones Are Best?
BBQ onions add a depth of flavour and sweetness that enhances many BBQ dishes:
- Caramelised Onions: Slow-cooked until golden and sweet, caramelised onions are perfect for topping burgers, steaks or even adding to salads.
- Grilled Onion Rings: Thick slices of onions grilled until charred and tender are a smoky and flavourful addition to any BBQ plate.
- Pickled Onions: Quick-pickled red onions add a tangy, crunchy element that brightens up rich and savoury dishes.
- Onion Skewers: Skewered and grilled, onions develop a wonderful sweetness and pair well with other vegetables or meats on the grill.
BBQ Accompaniments Delivery UK
Fine Food Specialist delivers a premium selection of BBQ accompaniments across the UK, ensuring that your barbecue is complete with the finest sides. From artisanal burger buns and fresh salads to a variety of grilled vegetables and flavourful onions, our expertly curated range of accompaniments enhances every BBQ meal. Enjoy the convenience of having gourmet-quality sides delivered directly to your doorstep!
BBQ Accompaniments FAQs
1. How Many Sides Should You Have at the BBQ?
Aim for at least 3–4 side dishes to give your guests variety. A mix of fresh salads, grilled vegetables and carb-based options like potato salad or buns works well. This also helps balance the bold flavours of grilled mains like ribs or steaks.
2. How to Barbecue Burger Buns?
Lightly brush your burger buns with butter or oil, then place them cut-side down on the grill for 30–60 seconds. This gives them a warm, crispy edge that holds up perfectly to juicy patties or grilled veggies, an essential step for the best BBQ accompaniments.
3. What are the Best BBQ Chicken Accompaniments?
The best BBQ chicken accompaniments include fresh salads, grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, coleslaw, and soft burger buns to balance the smoky, savoury flavours.
