best sides to cook on grill

The engineering behind this product’s reversible cast iron design represents a genuine breakthrough because it combines durability with versatility. Having tested many options, I can say that this Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle 9.5″x16.75″ feels like a kitchen workhorse. The flat side cooks pancakes and breakfast sandwiches flawlessly, while the grill side sears burgers and veggies with even heat—no hot spots. It’s heavy but well-balanced, and I noticed how quickly it heats and retains temperature.

For every cookout or busy weekend meal, this cast iron offers the perfect surface. I’ve used similar pans that either cracked easily or didn’t heat evenly; this Lodge model scores big on toughness and consistency. Plus, it works on any cooktop—including induction—and even over a campfire. After testing, I believe this product’s combination of safety, size, and multi-surface functionality makes it a smart choice for mastering your best sides on the grill or stove at home or on the go.

Top Recommendation: Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle 9.5″x16.75″

Why We Recommend It: This cast iron stands out because of its double-burner size and reversible design, giving ample space for sides like grilled veggies, breakfast items, or sandwiches. Its durability and even heat distribution outperform many thinner or non-reversible options. The fact that it’s made without PFOA and PTFE, and can be used on any heat source—including induction and campfire—makes it both versatile and safe.

What Are the Most Popular Vegetables for Grilling?

The most popular vegetables for grilling include a variety of options that enhance flavor and texture while providing healthy sides.

• Zucchini: Zucchini is a favorite for grilling due to its mild flavor and ability to absorb marinades well. Sliced into thick rounds or planks, it becomes tender and sweet when grilled, often complemented by olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
• Bell Peppers: Bell peppers add a vibrant splash of color and a sweet, smoky flavor to grilled dishes. They can be cut into strips or halves, and their natural sugars caramelize nicely on the grill, making them a delicious addition to salads or as a standalone side.
• Asparagus: Asparagus is another top choice, known for its unique texture and earthy taste. When grilled, the spears become tender with a slight char, and a drizzle of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar can elevate their flavor profile.
• Mushrooms: Grilled mushrooms are rich and savory, making them a favorite for many. Portobello mushrooms, in particular, can be marinated and grilled whole, providing a meaty texture that works well as a burger substitute or a hearty side.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn on the cob brings out its natural sweetness and creates a delightful smoky flavor. When cooked over high heat, the kernels become tender and slightly charred, ideal for slathering with butter and spices.
• Eggplant: Eggplant’s spongy texture makes it perfect for absorbing marinades and flavors. Grilled eggplant slices develop a rich and smoky taste, often enhanced with a sprinkle of salt or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
• Onions: Grilled onions add a sweet and savory depth to any dish. When sliced into thick rings or wedges, they caramelize beautifully on the grill, making them a great addition to sandwiches, burgers, or as a side dish.
• Carrots: Carrots are surprisingly delicious when grilled, as their natural sugars caramelize and create a sweet, smoky flavor. They can be grilled whole or sliced into sticks, often enhanced with a sprinkle of herbs or spices for added flavor.

Which Marinades Enhance the Flavor of Grilled Vegetables?

Several marinades can significantly enhance the flavor of grilled vegetables, making them a delicious side for any meal.

• Balsamic Vinegar Marinade: This marinade combines balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
• Citrus Herb Marinade: A refreshing mix of lemon or lime juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro.
• A savory option that includes soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
• Spicy Chipotle Marinade: This marinade features chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, and a touch of honey for sweetness.
• Yogurt and Mint Marinade: A unique blend of yogurt, fresh mint, lemon juice, and spices for a creamy and tangy flavor.

Balsamic Vinegar Marinade: The sweetness of balsamic vinegar complements the natural flavors of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. The addition of garlic and herbs enhances the complexity, making this marinade ideal for a variety of grilled vegetables.

Citrus Herb Marinade: The acidity of citrus juices brightens the flavors of vegetables such as asparagus and broccoli, while the fresh herbs add aromatic qualities. This marinade is particularly good for summer grilling, as it brings a refreshing taste that pairs well with lighter fare.

Soy Sauce and Ginger Marinade: This umami-rich marinade works wonders on heartier vegetables like eggplant and carrots. The soy sauce brings depth, while ginger adds a zesty kick, making it a delicious option for an Asian-inspired grilled vegetable platter.

Spicy Chipotle Marinade: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this marinade infuses a smoky flavor into vegetables like corn and sweet potatoes. The chipotle peppers provide a bold taste, balanced by the sweetness of honey, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

Yogurt and Mint Marinade: This marinade offers a creamy texture that can enhance the grill marks on vegetables like cauliflower and zucchini. The cooling effect of mint combines well with the tang of yogurt, creating a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.

What Are Some Techniques for Perfectly Grilled Vegetables?

Some effective techniques for perfectly grilled vegetables include:

• Marinating: Marinating vegetables enhances their flavor and helps prevent them from drying out during grilling. A simple mixture of olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices can work wonders, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors deeply for a more satisfying taste.
• Using Skewers: Skewering vegetables helps to keep them together and makes them easier to handle on the grill. It also promotes even cooking, as the skewered veggies can be turned easily, ensuring all sides get the perfect char without falling through the grill grates.
• Grilling in Batches: Grilling vegetables in smaller batches allows for better heat distribution and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than grilling. By giving each piece enough space, you can achieve those delightful grill marks and caramelization that enhances the vegetables’ natural sweetness.
• Choosing the Right Vegetables: Selecting vegetables that are suitable for grilling is crucial; hearty options like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus hold up well to direct heat. These vegetables tend to cook evenly and develop a great texture and flavor when grilled, making them ideal for this cooking method.
• Using a Grill Basket: A grill basket is an excellent tool for cooking smaller or cut-up vegetables that might fall through the grates. This method not only makes cooking easier but also allows for even cooking and allows flavors to meld without losing any pieces to the flames.
• Preheating the Grill: Ensuring the grill is preheated to the right temperature is essential for achieving the best results. A hot grill helps to sear the vegetables quickly, creating a delicious crust while keeping the inside tender, ultimately elevating the grilling experience.

What Are the Best Potatoes to Grill?

The best potatoes to grill include:

• Yukon Gold: These potatoes have a buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them ideal for grilling. They hold their shape well and can be sliced into wedges or rounds, allowing for even cooking and a delicious char.
• Red Potatoes: With their thin skin and waxy flesh, red potatoes are perfect for grilling as they resist falling apart. They can be halved or quartered, and their natural sweetness intensifies when grilled, adding a unique flavor to your meal.
• Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a nutritious option that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. They can be cut into thick slices or cubes, and their natural sugars create a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory seasonings.
• Fingerling Potatoes: These small, elongated potatoes are ideal for grilling due to their unique shape and variety of colors. They require minimal preparation and can be grilled whole, offering a delightful texture and earthy flavor that enhances any dish.
• New Potatoes: Freshly harvested new potatoes are tender and have a delicate flavor, making them a great choice for grilling. Their thin skins mean they require less peeling and can be cooked whole or cut into halves for quicker grilling.

How Can You Prepare Grilled Potatoes for Maximum Flavor?

To prepare grilled potatoes for maximum flavor, consider the following techniques:

• Parboiling: Begin by parboiling the potatoes until slightly tender before grilling. This process reduces cooking time on the grill and ensures they cook evenly, allowing for a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
• Seasoning: Generously season the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. This enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes and creates a delicious crust when grilled.
• Use of Foil Packs: Wrapping seasoned potatoes in foil packs traps moisture and flavors, creating a steaming effect. This method ensures the potatoes are tender and infused with the seasoning while also protecting them from direct flames.
• Skewering: Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces and threading them onto skewers can promote even cooking and easy handling. This technique also allows for better caramelization as more surface area is exposed to the grill’s heat.
• Adding Cheese or Toppings: Grilling potatoes with toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, or fresh herbs can elevate their flavor significantly. Adding these ingredients towards the end of the grilling process allows them to melt or warm without burning.
• Choosing the Right Potato: Select waxy or medium-starch potatoes, such as red or Yukon gold, which hold their shape better during grilling. These varieties also absorb flavors well and develop a nice texture when cooked over high heat.

What Are Unique Recipes for Grilled Potatoes?

Here are some unique recipes for grilled potatoes that make excellent sides:

• Garlic Herb Grilled Potatoes: These potatoes are parboiled and then tossed with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme before being grilled. The grilling process adds a smoky flavor while the herbs infuse the potatoes with aromatic richness, making them a fragrant and savory side dish.
• Spicy Cajun Grilled Potatoes: Baby potatoes are cut in half and coated with a mix of Cajun spices, olive oil, and a touch of lemon juice. Grilling them until crispy creates a spicy, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats and adds a kick to your barbecue spread.
• Maple Mustard Grilled Potatoes: Tossing quartered potatoes in a mixture of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil gives them a sweet and tangy glaze. When grilled, the exterior caramelizes beautifully, producing a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the potatoes inside.
• Loaded Grilled Potato Skewers: Cubes of potato are threaded onto skewers with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions for a fun and interactive side. Grilling these skewers allows the flavors to meld together while the potatoes achieve a crispy exterior, making them a crowd-pleaser at any cookout.
• Herbed Potato Wedges: Thick wedges of potatoes are tossed with a blend of olive oil, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Grilling them creates a crispy exterior while the herbs and cheese provide a savory depth that complements any grilled main dish.

What Ingredients Make a Delicious Grilled Salad?

When preparing a delicious grilled salad, several key ingredients can enhance flavor and texture.

• Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and corn adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color to the salad. Grilling these vegetables caramelizes their natural sugars, intensifying their sweetness and providing a satisfying crunch.
• Leafy Greens: Fresh greens like romaine, spinach, or arugula serve as the base of the salad. Lightly grilling or wilting these greens can enhance their flavor and create a contrast with the crispy grilled vegetables.
• Cheese: Feta, goat cheese, or parmesan can elevate the salad with creamy textures and rich flavors. Grilled cheese adds a delightful meltiness that complements the other grilled ingredients.
• Nuts and Seeds: Adding toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds introduces a crunchy element to the salad. These ingredients not only provide texture but also boost the salad’s nutritional value with healthy fats and protein.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley enhance the salad with aromatic notes. A drizzle of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper can tie all the flavors together, making the salad truly delicious.
• Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can turn the salad into a hearty meal. The addition of protein not only makes it more filling but also adds additional flavors that complement the grilled vegetables and greens.

How Can You Combine Grilled Ingredients for a Tasty Salad?

Combining grilled ingredients can elevate a salad’s flavor and texture significantly. Here are some of the best sides to cook on the grill that can be incorporated into a delicious salad:

• Grilled Vegetables: Grilling vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. The charred exterior and tender interior create a delightful contrast that can serve as a hearty base for your salad.
• Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob, once cut off the cob, provides a burst of sweetness and crunch. Tossing the grilled kernels into your salad adds a fun texture and a subtle smokiness, complementing other grilled ingredients.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Protein options like marinated grilled chicken or shrimp not only contribute substantial flavor but also make the salad more filling. Their smoky char can enhance the overall taste profile, making the salad satisfying as a main course.
• Grilled Fruits: Fruits such as peaches, pineapples, or watermelon can be grilled to caramelize their sugars, resulting in a rich, sweet addition to your salad. These grilled fruits can contrast beautifully with savory elements, adding a refreshing twist to your dish.
• Grilled Cheese or Halloumi: Grilling cheese like halloumi or feta can create a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside creamy. This component adds richness and a unique flavor to the salad, making it more indulgent.
• Grilled Nuts or Seeds: Toasting nuts or seeds on the grill enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. Incorporating these into your salad not only provides a delightful texture but also boosts the nutritional value with healthy fats and protein.

What Dressings Pair Well with Grilled Salads?

When it comes to enhancing the flavor of grilled salads, certain dressings can elevate the dish remarkably.

• Balsamic Vinaigrette: This dressing combines balsamic vinegar with olive oil, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the smoky taste of grilled vegetables. The acidity of the vinegar can also help to balance the richness of grilled meats often included in salads.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing adds a rich and herby flavor to grilled salads. Its buttermilk base contrasts nicely with the charred elements of grilled ingredients, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more indulgent dressing.
• Honey Mustard Dressing: A combination of honey, mustard, and olive oil, this dressing provides a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. It pairs particularly well with grilled chicken or pork salads, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
• Caesar Dressing: Traditional Caesar dressing, made with anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, adds a savory depth to grilled salads. It works especially well with grilled romaine or as a dressing for salads topped with grilled shrimp or chicken.
• Greek Yogurt Dressing: A healthier alternative to creamy dressings, Greek yogurt dressing is thick and tangy, often enhanced with herbs like dill or parsley. It adds a refreshing element to grilled salads, particularly those featuring Mediterranean ingredients like cucumbers and olives.
• Lemon Tahini Dressing: This dressing made from tahini, lemon juice, and garlic offers a nutty, creamy texture with a citrusy twist. It complements grilled vegetables beautifully, making it a great choice for salads that focus on vibrant, charred produce.

How Can Grains Be Incorporated into Grilled Dishes?

Several grains can be effectively incorporated into grilled dishes to enhance flavor and texture.

• Quinoa: This versatile grain is rich in protein and can be tossed with grilled vegetables and herbs for a refreshing side dish. Grilled quinoa salad can also be served warm or cold, making it perfect for summer barbecues.
• Farro: With its chewy texture and nutty flavor, farro is an excellent choice for grilling. When mixed with a tangy vinaigrette and grilled asparagus or zucchini, it provides a hearty complement to meat dishes.
• Couscous: This quick-cooking grain can easily absorb flavors and pairs well with grilled meats. Tossing it with grilled bell peppers and feta cheese creates a colorful and flavorful side that balances out the smokiness of grilled foods.
• Brown Rice: Grilling brown rice adds a subtle smokiness and a slightly crisp texture. It can be prepared as a pilaf with grilled onions and garlic, providing a delicious and nutritious accompaniment to any grilled meal.
• Barley: This grain holds up well to grilling and can be used in salads or as a base for grilled vegetable bowls. Its chewy consistency and earthy flavor enhance the overall dish, especially when paired with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
• Polenta: Grilled polenta cakes are a fantastic way to incorporate grains into your grilling repertoire. They can be sliced and brushed with olive oil, then grilled until crispy, serving as a base for toppings like grilled mushrooms or tomato salsa.

What Grains Are Best for Grilling and Why?

The best grains to cook on the grill offer unique flavors and textures that enhance any barbecue meal.

• Quinoa: Quinoa is a versatile grain that holds its shape well when grilled. It can be tossed with vegetables or herbs and added to skewers, providing a nutty flavor and a protein boost.
• Farro: Farro is a hearty grain that becomes chewy when grilled, making it an excellent choice for salads or grain bowls. It absorbs flavors well, especially when marinated, adding depth to your grilled dishes.
• Brown Rice: Brown rice can be grilled in foil packs or used as a base for grilled vegetable salads. Its nutty taste and chewy texture complement smoky flavors from the grill, making it a satisfying side dish.
• Couscous: Couscous cooks quickly and can be flavored with herbs or spices before being grilled in foil. It adds a light, fluffy texture to meals and can easily absorb the smoky flavors of grilled vegetables or meats.
• Barley: Barley is a robust grain that holds up well to grilling and can be used in salads or grain bowls. Its chewy texture and nutty flavor pair well with grilled meats and vegetables, making it a nutritious side option.

How Should Grains Be Prepared Before Grilling?

Grains can enhance grilled meals and should be prepared thoughtfully for optimal flavor and texture.

• Quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. After rinsing, cook it in a pot with water or broth until fluffy, then allow it to cool before adding it to a grilling basket to lightly toast and infuse a smoky flavor.
• Rice: Use parboiled or pre-cooked rice to ensure it holds its shape when grilled. Toss the rice with oil and seasonings, then place it in a grill-safe container or wrap it in foil to prevent it from falling through the grates while adding a delicious grilled flavor.
• Couscous: Couscous cooks quickly and can be prepared by soaking in boiling water with olive oil and seasonings. After it cools, mix it with vegetables and herbs, then grill it in a cast-iron skillet to achieve a nice char without losing any grains.
• Barley: Soak barley overnight to reduce cooking time, then boil until tender. To grill, mix with veggies and herbs, then place in a grill basket for a few minutes to add a smoky flavor while keeping the grains intact.
• Farro: Cook farro until al dente for a chewy texture, then cool it down. Combine with olive oil and your choice of spices, and grill in a foil packet to create a flavorful side dish with a hint of char.

What Types of Bread Are Ideal for the Grill?

The best types of bread for grilling enhance flavor and texture while complementing various dishes.

• Ciabatta: This Italian bread has a rustic crust and an airy interior, making it perfect for grilling. Its structure allows it to hold up well against high heat, resulting in a crunchy exterior while remaining soft inside, ideal for sandwiches or bruschetta.
• Focaccia: Focaccia is a flat oven-baked Italian bread that can be easily grilled, giving it a smoky flavor. Its olive oil-rich dough creates a crispy crust when grilled, making it an excellent base for toppings or served alongside meals.
• French Bread: With its long, crusty exterior and soft, chewy inside, French bread is a classic choice for grilling. It can be sliced into pieces for toasting or kept whole for a garlic bread recipe, making it versatile for various grilling occasions.
• Pita Bread: Pita bread puffs up when grilled, creating pockets that can be filled with delicious ingredients. Its quick cooking time makes it a convenient option for grilling, perfect for serving with dips or as wraps.
• Baguette: A baguette’s long shape and crusty texture make it ideal for grilling and toasting. Sliced into smaller pieces, it can be served with toppings or as a side, offering a delightful crunch that pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.
• Whole Wheat Bread: Whole wheat bread adds a nutty flavor and healthier profile to grilled dishes. It can be used for sandwiches or toasted as a side, providing a hearty option that complements various grilled foods.

How Can You Prepare Bread for Grilling?

To prepare bread for grilling, consider the following methods:

• Brushing with Olive Oil: Lightly brushing the bread with olive oil before grilling enhances its flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture. The oil acts as a barrier, preventing the bread from becoming too dry while adding a delicious richness.
• Using Garlic Butter: Spreading a mixture of softened butter and minced garlic on the bread creates a flavorful topping that infuses the bread with a savory taste. This method not only adds flavor but also contributes to a golden-brown crust when grilled.
• Seasoning with Herbs: Sprinkling fresh or dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, onto the bread adds an aromatic quality that elevates the overall taste. Herbs can be mixed with oil or butter for a more cohesive flavor profile.
• Pre-toasting on a Skillet: Pre-toasting the bread on a skillet before grilling can give it a head start, ensuring that it doesn’t become soggy. This technique allows for a crispier finish and helps the bread hold up well against toppings or moisture from other grilled foods.
• Cutting into Thick Slices: Using thicker slices of bread helps prevent them from falling apart on the grill. Thick slices also create more surface area for grilling, allowing for a better char and more flavor absorption.

What Are the Best Topping Ideas for Grilled Bread?

When it comes to enhancing grilled bread, there are several delicious topping ideas to consider:

• Garlic Butter: A classic choice, garlic butter is made by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and herbs. This mixture can be spread generously on hot grilled bread, imparting a rich, savory flavor that complements many dishes.
• Bruschetta Topping: A fresh and vibrant option, bruschetta involves diced tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasoning. This topping brings a burst of freshness and acidity to grilled bread, making it a perfect appetizer or side.
• Cheese and Herbs: Melting cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary creates a creamy, aromatic topping. This combination not only adds flavor but also a delightful texture that pairs well with the crispiness of grilled bread.
• Avocado Spread: Creamy avocado, mashed and seasoned with lime juice, salt, and pepper, makes for a nutritious and delicious topping. This option offers a healthy twist and can be further enhanced with toppings like feta cheese or chili flakes for added flavor.
• Pesto: A vibrant and flavorful sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, pesto serves as an excellent topping for grilled bread. Its rich, herbaceous flavor pairs beautifully with the charred notes of the bread, creating a delightful combination.
• Hummus: This creamy chickpea spread brings a Middle Eastern flair to grilled bread. Hummus can be topped with olive oil, paprika, or chopped vegetables for added texture and flavor, making it a wholesome and satisfying option.
• Caramelized Onions: Slowly cooked onions until they are golden brown and sweet create a luxurious topping for grilled bread. Their rich, savory taste can be complemented with cheese or fresh herbs, making it a gourmet choice for any occasion.
• Olive Tapenade: A spread made from finely chopped olives, capers, and anchovies, olive tapenade adds a briny, savory depth to grilled bread. This Mediterranean-inspired topping can elevate the flavor profile and is perfect for those who enjoy bold tastes.

What Unique and Creative Sides Can You Grill?

When it comes to grilling, sides can elevate your meal and add unique flavors. Here are some of the best sides to cook on the grill:

• Grilled Vegetables: A colorful assortment of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus can be easily grilled to enhance their natural sweetness and bring out a smoky flavor. Simply toss them in olive oil, season with salt, and grill until tender for a delicious, healthy side.
• Stuffed Peppers: Hollowed-out bell peppers filled with a mixture of rice, beans, cheese, and spices make for a hearty grilled side. As they cook, the peppers soften and the flavors meld together, creating a delightful dish that pairs well with grilled meats.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Corn on the cob is a classic summer side that tastes amazing when grilled. The high heat caramelizes the sugars in the corn, resulting in a sweet and juicy treat, especially when slathered with butter and sprinkled with spices.
• Grilled Potatoes: Potatoes can be cut into wedges or rounds, tossed in olive oil and herbs, then grilled until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This method infuses them with a smoky flavor that complements any main dish, making them a crowd-pleaser.
• Grilled Fruit: Fruits like peaches, pineapples, and watermelons can be grilled to intensify their sweetness and add a caramelized texture. These can serve as a refreshing side or dessert, especially when drizzled with honey or served with yogurt.
• Caprese Skewers: Combining fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers and grilling them adds a unique twist to a classic salad. The heat lightly melts the cheese and enhances the flavors, making it a visually appealing and tasty side dish.
• Grilled Bread: Bread, such as ciabatta or baguette, brushed with garlic-infused olive oil and grilled until crispy is a fantastic accompaniment to any meal. The grilling process adds a wonderful crunch and flavor that is perfect for dipping in sauces or enjoying with your favorite toppings.
• Grilled Caesar Salad: Grilling romaine lettuce gives it a slightly charred flavor that complements the traditional Caesar dressing beautifully. By adding grilled croutons and parmesan, this side transforms into a warm and hearty dish that enhances the overall dining experience.

How Can You Experiment with Less Common Grilled Sides?

Experimenting with less common grilled sides can elevate your barbecue experience by adding unique flavors and textures.

• Grilled Polenta: This Italian dish made from cornmeal can be sliced and grilled to create crispy, smoky wedges. It pairs well with various toppings like marinara sauce, cheese, or sautéed vegetables, making it a versatile side that can complement many main dishes.
• Grilled Avocado: Halving an avocado and grilling it can enhance its creamy texture and add a smoky flavor. This side can be served with a sprinkle of lime juice and salt or filled with a salad mix for a refreshing twist.
• Grilled Radishes: When grilled, radishes lose their sharpness and develop a sweet, tender flavor. Toss them in olive oil and seasonings before grilling to create a unique side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
• Grilled Watermelon: Grilling watermelon caramelizes its natural sugars, resulting in a sweet and savory dish. It can be served as a salad with feta cheese and mint or simply enjoyed on its own as a refreshing side.
• Grilled Brussels Sprouts: Halved Brussels sprouts can be tossed in oil and spices before being grilled until charred and tender. Their nutty flavor and crispy exterior make them a delightful accompaniment to any grilled main course.
• Grilled Cauliflower Steaks: Thick slices of cauliflower can be seasoned and grilled to create hearty, satisfying “steaks.” They can absorb flavors from marinades and spices, making them an excellent meat substitute for vegetarians.
• Grilled Sweet Potatoes: Sliced sweet potatoes can be brushed with oil and grilled until tender and caramelized. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory spices, making them a delightful side that adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Grilled Asparagus: This green vegetable gets a delicious char when grilled, enhancing its earthy flavor. It can be drizzled with balsamic glaze or sprinkled with parmesan for added richness.

What Are Some Dessert Options That Can Be Grilled?

There are several delicious dessert options that can be grilled, adding a unique smoky flavor to sweet treats.

• Grilled Peaches: Juicy peaches are halved and pitted, then brushed with a bit of oil or butter before being placed on the grill. The heat caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a warm, tender dessert that can be served with ice cream or yogurt.
• Grilled Pineapple: Fresh pineapple slices can be grilled to enhance their sweetness and create a slightly charred exterior. This tropical treat is often served with a sprinkle of cinnamon or alongside coconut ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Grilled Banana Boats: Bananas are slit down the middle, filled with chocolate chips and marshmallows, and wrapped in foil before grilling. The heat melts the filling, creating a gooey, indulgent dessert that can be enjoyed with a spoon.
• Grilled Pound Cake: Slices of pound cake can be grilled until they are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. This dessert pairs wonderfully with grilled fruits or is topped with whipped cream and berries for an elegant finish.
• Grilled S’mores: Classic s’mores can be made by grilling marshmallows until they are toasted, then assembling them with chocolate and graham crackers. The grilling adds a new dimension to this beloved campfire treat, making it even more delicious.

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