Po-tay-to, Po-tah-to, Ya-may-to, Ya-mah-to
15 Sides and Apps to Bring to the Memorial Day Barbecue
While we may still be deep in the throes of spring, we’ve had a few warm, sunny days to remind us that summer is right around the corner. If you’re like us, you’re already gearing up for the cookouts, backyard barbecues and midsummer potlucks.
But before we can start dreaming of sun-soaked days by the water, we have to say “bye-bye” to spring the only way we know how: a big ol’ Memorial Day barbecue!
And while burgers and ribs are the stars of the show, we know the things that keep everyone coming back for seconds (and, let’s be real, thirds) are the apps and sides. So, to get you inspired—and (hopefully) manifest the warmer days ahead—we’ve rounded up 15 of our favorite appetizers and side dishes that will make you the most welcomed guest at this year’s shindig.
Hungry for more? Explore our recipe library for ideas and inspo for your next gathering!
Grilled Corn with Chipotle Butter and Cilantro
We’ve all had corn on the cob, but not like this. Slathered in a smoky, chipotle butter, these bold, flavorful beauties are perfect for your next summer barbecue.
Get the Grilled Corn with Chipotle Butter and Cilantro recipe!
Wedge Fries with Chipotle Garlic Aioli
Thick-cut potato wedges served with a zesty chipotle garlic aioli make this side a smash, serving up a smoky, only-slightly-spicy kick.
Mushrooms with Garlic and Parsley
Fresh cremini mushrooms sautéed in butter, garlic and parsley until tender and bursting with earthy flavor. This dish comes together in minutes and makes a rich, delicious side.
Summer Succotash with Bacon
Fire up the grill—this side is a summer cookout staple. Bright and vibrant veggies are topped with crispy bacon bits that provide a savory smokiness to balance out the sweet corn.
Lemony Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Breadcrumbs
You can’t go wrong with brussels sprouts, bacon and toasted breadcrumbs tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette. On the table in just 30 minutes with a zesty crunch and tender bite—this side’s a no-brainer.
Get the Lemony Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Breadcrumbs recipe!
Mac ‘n Cheese Bacon Bowls with Pasilla Chile
Skip the dishes. These edible bacon bowls house a creamy macaroni tossed in a rich, Gruyère sauce, spiced with pasilla chile pepper for the ultimate cheese bomb.
Get the Mac ‘n Cheese Bacon Bowls with Pasilla Chile recipe!
Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon-Shallot Jam
Made with grated sweet potatoes, scallions and a touch of flour and egg for binding, these fritters are topped with a savory bacon-shallot jam. The perfect combination of sweet, sour and salty—a lovely complement to the fritters themselves.
Get the Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon-Shallot Jam recipe!
Instant Pot Spicy Chipotle Queso
Looking for something quick and easy? This creamy cheese dip hits the spot with a spicy chipotle kick, paired with your favorite tortilla chips or veggie crudités.
Goat Cheese Buffalo Dip
Flavorful and deeply addictive, this dip combines goat cheese, blue cheese, buffalo sauce and sour cream, creating a delicious balance of flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Tuna and Avocado Ceviche
Who doesn’t love a summer ceviche? This coastal go-to calls for sushi-grade tuna marinated in lime juice and mixed with ripe avocado, red onion, cilantro and jalapeño. Bright, creamy, zesty perfection.
Classic French Fries with Truffle Mayo
Crispy, golden brown frites seasoned with fresh herbs and spices and served with a truffle aioli is heaven on earth for most. Indulgent, impressive and even better topped with shaved Parmesan.
Grilled Prosciutto and Melon with Olive Oil
Easy and iconic, this grilled twist on the Spanish tapa will add some flair to your backyard BBQ. Grilling accents both the salty flavor of the prosciutto and the sweetness of the cantaloupe.
Buffalo Fried Cauliflower with Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing
Vegetarian or not, these golden-brown cauliflower florets drenched in buffalo sauce and served with a creamy blue cheese dressing will sway you to the other side.
Get the Buffalo Fried Cauliflower with Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing recipe!
Grilled Jalapeño Poppers
Fresh jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese sauce, then grilled to perfection is a Memorial Day must-have that never fails to impress. They’re easy to throw on the grill and even easier to pop.
Pistachio-Pesto Hummus
Combining the smooth creaminess of traditional hummus with the earthy, herby flavors of pistachio and pesto, this is a dip your guests will be coming back for. It’s fresh, zesty and perfect with pita chips.
Get the Pistachio-Pesto Hummus recipe!
Hungry for more? Explore our recipe library for ideas and inspo for your next gathering!
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