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10 Delicious Spring Grilling Side Dishes to Elevate Your BBQ

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Spring Grilling Side Dishes

Spring is here, and it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy some fresh side dishes that celebrate the season! From the zesty kick of Chili Lime Corn on the Cob to the delightful Grilled Peach Salad with Honey and Mint, these recipes are designed to add color and flavor to your outdoor gatherings. Whether you’re craving smoky grilled vegetables or creamy grilled avocado, these simple and tasty options will complement any main dish beautifully and keep your taste buds happy.

Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Grilled sweet potato wedges served with a creamy dip

Grilled sweet potato wedges are a delightful addition to any spring barbecue. These wedges are tossed with olive oil and fresh rosemary, then grilled to achieve a crispy exterior while remaining soft on the inside. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the smoky flavor from the grill, making them a tasty side dish that everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for grilling side dishes in spring. Just a few ingredients and some time on the grill will reward you with a delicious accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or a satisfying snack on their own.

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, if available)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into wedges.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Place the wedges directly on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
  5. Remove from the grill and serve warm, optionally with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Grilled Broccoli with Garlic and Parmesan

Grilled broccoli with garlic and Parmesan cheese, vibrant green florets sprinkled with cheese and garlic

This grilled broccoli with garlic and Parmesan is a delightful addition to your spring grilling side dishes. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the richness of garlic and the nuttiness of Parmesan creates a vibrant and delicious dish that elevates any meal.

Simple to prepare, it takes only a few minutes to grill the broccoli to perfection. It’s a great way to enjoy your greens while enjoying the warmth of the grill. Pair it with your favorite grilled meats or serve it as a stand-alone side for a light spring gathering.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to ensure the broccoli is evenly coated.
  3. Place the broccoli on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the florets are slightly charred and tender.
  4. Remove from the grill and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while the broccoli is still hot.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious spring side dish!

Balsamic Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Balsamic Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with cherry tomatoes on a wooden board

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish for your spring grilling, these Balsamic Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are a must-try. With their rich, meaty texture and robust flavor, they add a unique touch to any barbecue. The balsamic marinade brings a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the smoky grill marks.

Not only are these mushrooms delicious, but they’re also incredibly simple to make. Just marinate, grill, and serve! They can easily stand on their own as a side or even be the star of the meal. Enjoy this hearty dish that complements your spring grilling side dishes beautifully.

Ingredients

  • 4 large Portobello mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Mushrooms: Place the Portobello mushrooms in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high.
  4. Grill the Mushrooms: Remove the mushrooms from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy as a side dish or a main alternative.

Grilled Eggplant with Herb Yogurt Sauce

Grilled eggplant slices topped with a creamy herb yogurt sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.

Grilled eggplant is a delightful addition to any spring grilling side dishes. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs beautifully with a cool and creamy herb yogurt sauce, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. This recipe is simple to prepare and adds a vibrant touch to your outdoor meals.

To make it even better, grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the eggplant while the herb yogurt sauce provides a zesty contrast. It’s an ideal side for any barbecue, appealing to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, and mint), chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  2. Preheat the Grill: While the eggplant is resting, preheat your grill to medium heat.
  3. Season the Eggplant: Pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. Brush each side with olive oil, and season with black pepper.
  4. Grill the Eggplant: Place the eggplant slices on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
  5. Make the Herb Yogurt Sauce: In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, chopped herbs, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
  6. Serve: Transfer the grilled eggplant to a serving platter and spoon the herb yogurt sauce over the top. Enjoy this delightful side dish with your favorite grilled proteins!

Grilled Avocado Salad

A vibrant grilled avocado salad with mixed greens and cherry tomatoes

Grilled Avocado Salad is a delightful addition to any spring barbecue. The creamy texture of grilled avocados pairs beautifully with refreshing greens and a zesty dressing, making this dish both satisfying and light. It’s simple to prepare, adding a gourmet touch to your grilling side dishes this spring.

This salad not only looks appealing with its vibrant colors but also balances the smoky flavors of the grilled avocados with the freshness of the greens. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy avocados in a new light, and it’s sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 4 cups mixed greens (like arugula and spinach)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Brush the cut side with olive oil.
  3. Place the avocados cut side down on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until grill marks form.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  5. Once the avocados are done, remove them from the grill and place them on top of the salad mix.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad

Grilled romaine Caesar salad with croutons and Parmesan cheese

Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad is a fresh twist on a classic dish, making it a delightful addition to your spring grilling side dishes. The grilling process adds a subtle smokiness to the romaine, enhancing its natural crunch while the Caesar dressing gives it that familiar creamy richness we all love.

This salad is not just easy to make; it’s also visually appealing and packed with flavors. With some charred lettuce, crispy croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s a simple yet elegant side that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

  • 2 heads of romaine lettuce, halved
  • 1 cup croutons
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • Olive oil for grilling
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Brush the cut sides of the romaine with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Place the romaine halves cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until grill marks appear and the lettuce is slightly wilted.
  4. Remove from the grill and drizzle with Caesar dressing.
  5. Top with croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese before serving.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled vegetable skewers with colorful vegetables on the grill.

Grilled vegetable skewers are a colorful and healthy addition to any spring barbecue. They bring a delightful combination of flavors from fresh vegetables, making them a simple yet satisfying side dish. With a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes, each bite is bursting with freshness, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes the taste to another level.

These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also quick to grill, making them perfect for those sunny days spent outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a meal with family, these skewers are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating between different types for a vibrant look.
  4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
  5. Remove from the grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Chili Lime Corn on the Cob

Chili lime corn on the cob with grill marks and garnished with cilantro.

Chili Lime Corn on the Cob is a delightful grilling side dish that combines the sweetness of corn with a zesty chili lime butter. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also brings a burst of flavor to your spring grilling events. The smoky taste from the grill perfectly complements the tangy and spicy notes, making it a crowd-pleaser.

This corn recipe is a must-try for any barbecue, offering a fresh and vibrant twist on a classic favorite. Pair it with your grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own for a light snack that captures the essence of spring.

Ingredients

  • 4 ears of sweet corn, husked
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
  3. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
  4. Remove the corn from the grill and brush generously with the chili lime butter.
  5. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your zesty corn on the cob!

Tomato Basil Bruschetta on the Grill

Grilled rustic bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil

Tomato Basil Bruschetta is a delightful and refreshing addition to any spring grilling feast. This simple yet flavorful dish combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic touch of fresh basil, all atop a crispy grilled slice of bread.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s easy to whip up. This bruschetta is perfect as an appetizer or side dish, making it a versatile choice for your next barbecue.

Ingredients

  • 4 slices of rustic bread
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes (preferably cherry or heirloom)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Grill the Bread: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the slices of rustic bread on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have nice grill marks.
  3. Assemble the Bruschetta: Once the bread is grilled, top each slice generously with the tomato mixture.
  4. Serve: Optional: drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy immediately!

Grilled Peach Salad with Honey and Mint

Grilled peach salad with arugula and mint

Grilled Peach Salad with Honey and Mint is a delightful spring dish that balances sweetness with freshness. Grilling the peaches enhances their natural sugars, creating a warm, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the coolness of the arugula and the refreshing hints of mint.

Simple to prepare, this salad is ideal for spring grilling side dishes. Just prepare the grill, slice some peaches, and toss everything together for a bright and tasty addition to any meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Brush peach halves with a light coating of olive oil.
  3. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until grill marks appear and they are slightly softened.
  4. Remove peaches from the grill and let them cool slightly.
  5. In a large bowl, combine arugula, grilled peaches, honey, chopped mint, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve immediately as a fresh side dish or salad!

These 10+ grilling side dishes for spring offer a burst of flavor and a healthy dose of seasonal goodness that perfectly complement your grilled mains. From zesty vegetables to creative salads, each recipe is designed to bring freshness and vibrancy to your outdoor meals. Get creative, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations on Pinterest and social media to inspire others. Happy grilling!