Updated May 2, 2017
Sure, we all feel comfortable around a grill and a hot dog/bun/chicken breast, but even the best of us starts doubting our skills when we start talking potatoes and romaine.
This summer, we’re thinking about grilling all our meals from brunch and lunch to dinner and dessert, so let’s calm your nerves and cover how to do side dishes.
Equipment to Have on Hand
For more delicate side options (tomatoes, green onions, lettuces, etc.) a fine grill grate tray or grill basket is a lifesaver.
Skewers are handy for wrangling smaller items like tomatoes and grapes.
Long handled tongs are great for the frequent turning you’ll need to do.
If grill marks aren’t a requirement, consider making a cooking packet with parchment paper and aluminum foil.
Techniques to Master
Many items will need to be precooked before heading to the grill in order to ensure they reach tender perfection before they burn. Potatoes, beets and carrots all fit into this category.
Though veggies such as summer squash, mushrooms and onions don’t need to be precooked, cutting them down to roughly equal sizes will help with even cooking.
Try grilling ears of corn with the husks on to gently steam the kernels, then remove the husk and quickly toss the corn on the fire to achieve a few grill marks.
For the most part, side dishes will cook more quickly than protein items, so keep a close eye on the grill and maintain a medium (about 350°F) to medium-hot (about 400°F) grill temperature.
Recipe Ideas to Try
We dare you to keep that flame hot and explore all these fun options. Grill your salad, bread and sandwiches.
Shape premade pizza dough into flatbread and throw it on the grill. We love this simple Cherry Focaccia opens in a new tab.
Grill several different veggies, plus a slice of bread then assemble a super easy and impressive salad like this Grilled Tomato and Broccoli Rabe Salad with Sourdough Breadcrumbs opens in a new tab.
Use the direct heat of the grill to add color to bread and the indirect heat to warm up any toppings on open-faced sandwiches like these Grilled Goat Cheese and Artichoke Toasties opens in a new tab.
Big hunks of romaine lettuce or cabbage are excellent when grilled. The time on the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the lettuces while adding a fun smokiness. Serve these as a wedge or chop up the grilled item for easy toppings or sandwich stuffers.
Do you have any tips for grilling side dishes? Share your suggestions for grilling your sides and any recipe ideas in the comments section below.
