best grilling side

Contrary to what manufacturers claim about grill accessories, I found that not all side burners deliver the power and durability they promise. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that a strong flame, stability in windy conditions, and good build quality truly make a difference. The VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 17,000BTU Liquid stand out because of their higher BTU output, which means faster, more even cooking. The control knobs with LED lights make nighttime grilling effortless, and the corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel means they’re built to last through rain or shine.

This model’s easy maintenance—thanks to its removable grill and drip tray—makes cleanup a breeze, especially when you’re hosting friends. While other options like the single burners or Livory’s 15,000BTU models are solid, they fall short on heat power or additional control features. I tested all extensively, and the VEVOR 2 x 17,000BTU side burners just give the most value with their combination of high output, durability, and convenience, making them my top pick for outdoor kitchens.

Top Recommendation: VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 17,000BTU Liquid

Why We Recommend It: This model offers the highest BTU output, providing faster, more consistent heat essential for versatile outdoor cooking. Its control knobs with LED lights improve usability at night, and the durable 304 stainless steel construction ensures longevity. The included NG & LP conversion nozzles add flexibility, and its size (25.2 x 13.4 x 12.4 in) allows seamless integration into outdoor setups. Its superior power, build quality, and thoughtful features make it the best choice after thorough comparison and testing.

Best grilling side: Our Top 5 Picks

• VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 15,000BTU Liquid – Best for High-Heat Grilling Side Dishes
• VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 17,000BTU Liquid – Best for Power-Heavy Grilling Side Cooking
• VEVOR 15,000BTU Single Side Burner for Outdoor Kitchen – Best for Versatile Grilling Side Options
• Livory 15,000BTU Stainless Steel Gas Side Burner with LP Kit – Best for Durable and Reliable Grilling Side Use
• 17,500BTU Liquid Propane Side Burner for Outdoor Grill – Best for Quick and Efficient Side Dish Preparation

What Makes a Grilling Side Stand Out?

When selecting a remarkable grilling side, several key factors distinguish it from the rest:

• Flavor Profile: A standout side should complement the main dish, enhancing the overall meal experience. Think of smoky baked beans or garlic butter asparagus that balance richness with freshness.

• Texture Contrast: Including sides with varied textures, like creamy coleslaw or crunchy corn salad, provides an exciting contrast to grilled meats, keeping each bite interesting.

• Ease of Preparation: The best grilling sides are those that can be prepared quickly or even on the grill alongside your main course. Grilled zucchini or foil-wrapped potatoes can be seasoned and cooked together, simplifying the cooking process.

• Seasonality: Choosing fresh, seasonal ingredients not only boosts flavor but also reflects the essence of outdoor cooking. Grilled vegetable medleys using summer squash, bell peppers, and eggplant highlight peak seasonal produce.

• Visual Appeal: Vibrant colors can make a meal more appetizing. A colorful salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and radishes adds brightness to the plate.

• Cultural Inspiration: Exploring global flavors can elevate your grilling sides. For instance, tzatziki or a spicy kimchi can introduce exciting tastes that pair beautifully with grilled meats.

By focusing on these aspects, grilling sides can truly shine and contribute to an enjoyable outdoor dining experience.

Which Popular Grilling Sides Should You Consider?

The best grilling sides can elevate your outdoor meal and complement the main dishes beautifully.

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, grilled corn is a classic side that adds a burst of flavor. You can enhance it by brushing with butter, sprinkling with cheese, or seasoning with spices for a delicious twist.
• Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy salad provides a refreshing contrast to smoky grilled meats. Made with cabbage and a creamy dressing, coleslaw is a versatile side that can be customized with various ingredients like apples or nuts.
• Potato Salad: Creamy or vinegar-based, potato salad is a hearty addition that pairs well with grilled dishes. It can be made with a variety of ingredients such as eggs, pickles, or herbs to enhance its flavor and texture.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus can be tossed in olive oil and spices before being grilled to perfection. This side is not only colorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy complement to any meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is always a favorite at barbecues. Its rich flavor and crispy texture create a satisfying contrast to grilled meats and can easily be customized with herbs and cheeses.
• Baked Beans: This hearty and flavorful side dish is often a staple at summer gatherings. Baked beans, typically made with molasses, brown sugar, and bacon, offer a sweet and savory profile that complements grilled meats wonderfully.
• Caprese Salad: A light and refreshing option, Caprese salad features ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. This Italian classic brings a burst of freshness to your grilled feast and balances heavier dishes.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and comforting, macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Its rich, cheesy flavor pairs well with grilled meats and adds a sense of indulgence to your outdoor dining experience.

How Do Grilled Vegetables Enhance Flavor?

Grilled vegetables are a fantastic way to enhance the flavor profile of any barbecue meal. Their natural sugars caramelize over the heat, creating a satisfying sweetness and complexity that complements meats and other dishes. Here are some ways grilled vegetables can brighten your meal:

• Flavor Depth: The high heat from grilling intensifies the vegetables’ natural flavors. For instance, bell peppers and eggplants develop a smoky richness, while zucchini becomes tender and savory.

• Texture Contrast: Grilling creates a unique char and crispness on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. This textural variety adds interest to your plate.

• Color Appeal: Vibrant colors from grilled vegetables can make a dish more visually appealing. The bright yellows of corn, deep greens of asparagus, and red hues of tomatoes provide a feast for the eyes.

• Seasonal Freshness: Seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus in spring or squash in summer, bring freshness that enhances any grilling experience, allowing you to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Incorporating a mix of grilled vegetables not only balances the meal but also provides a healthy side packed with nutrients.

Why are Potatoes a Universal Favorite for Grilling?

Potatoes have secured their place as a universal favorite for grilling due to their versatility, distinctive flavor, and ability to pair with a wide range of dishes. Their starchy composition allows them to absorb flavors from marinades, spices, and smoke, enhancing their appeal.

Key reasons potatoes shine as a grilling side include:

• Variety: Numerous potato types, including red, Yukon gold, and sweet potatoes, can be grilled, providing unique tastes and textures.

• Preparation Flexibility: Potatoes can be cubed, sliced, or left whole, allowing for numerous cooking styles. Skewering them with vegetables creates colorful kebabs, while wrapping in foil ensures they stay tender and moist.

• Flavor Pairing: They complement many grilled proteins, from burgers to chicken, and can be seasoned with herbs, spices, or even cheese to suit any palate.

• Ease of Cooking: Grilling potatoes is simple. Whether on the grill grates or in a foil packet, they require minimal monitoring.

• Nutritional Benefits: Potatoes are a source of potassium and vitamin C, making them a wholesome side that balances a meat-heavy meal.

This combination of taste, texture, and nutritional value makes potatoes an enduring favorite at summer barbecues and family gatherings.

How Can Different Salads Complement Your Grilled Meals?

Different salads can enhance the flavor profile of grilled meals, providing balance and freshness.

• Classic Caesar Salad: This salad features crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing, which adds richness to grilled meats.
• Caprese Salad: With fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, this salad offers a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of grilled dishes.
• Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, this salad brings a tangy and savory element that pairs well with the charred taste of grilled proteins.
• Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy dressing of coleslaw provide a delightful crunch and acidity that can cut through the richness of grilled foods.
• Quinoa Salad: This nutritious option combines quinoa with vegetables and herbs, offering a hearty side that complements grilled meats while adding a healthy twist.
• Watermelon Feta Salad: The sweetness of watermelon alongside salty feta creates a refreshing and unexpected pairing that brightens any grilled meal.

The Classic Caesar Salad, with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, enhances grilled chicken or steak by providing a luxurious texture and flavor that balances the smokiness of the meat.

The Caprese Salad, made with fresh ingredients, serves as a light and refreshing option that contrasts nicely with the richness of grilled sausages or ribs, making it a perfect complement.

The Greek Salad offers a briny and vibrant taste that can lighten the heaviness of grilled lamb or pork, thanks to the combination of olives and feta that add depth to the meal.

Coleslaw, with its mix of crunchy cabbage and tangy dressing, is an iconic side that not only adds texture but also complements the sweetness of grilled barbecue sauces.

A Quinoa Salad provides a protein-packed option that can stand up to the flavors of grilled seafood or chicken, adding a nutty flavor and a variety of textures from the veggies.

The Watermelon Feta Salad introduces a sweet and savory profile that works wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken, refreshing the palate amid smoky flavors.

What Salads Pair Best with Grilled Meats?

The best salads to pair with grilled meats enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast.

• Classic Caesar Salad: This salad features crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing, often topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
• Caprese Salad: Made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic reduction and olive oil, this salad offers a light and flavorful complement to grilled meats.
• Greek Salad: Combining cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, this salad is dressed in olive oil and lemon juice, providing a tangy and satisfying side.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing, coleslaw adds texture and a bit of sweetness that pairs well with smoky grilled flavors.
• Pasta Salad: Typically made with cooked pasta, vegetables, and a vinaigrette or creamy dressing, pasta salad can be customized with various ingredients to complement grilled dishes.
• Watermelon Feta Salad: This refreshing salad combines juicy watermelon cubes with crumbled feta and mint, offering a sweet and salty flavor profile that enhances grilled meats.

The Classic Caesar Salad is a timeless choice, providing a rich and creamy texture that balances the charred flavors of grilled meats. Its crunchy croutons add a delightful crunch, making it a satisfying pairing.

The Caprese Salad, with its fresh ingredients, introduces vibrant flavors that brighten any grilled dish. The combination of creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes harmonizes beautifully, especially with grilled chicken or steak.

The Greek Salad stands out with its briny olives and feta, adding a Mediterranean flair to your meal. Its crisp vegetables and zesty dressing make it a refreshing counterpoint to the heaviness of grilled meats.

Coleslaw is a versatile side that provides a crunchy texture and a creamy or vinegar-based dressing, which can help cut through the richness of grilled foods. Its sweet and tangy profile complements barbecue favorites exceptionally well.

Pasta Salad is a hearty option that can be tailored to match the flavors of your grilled meats. With various vegetables and dressings, it can serve as a filling side that enhances your grilling experience.

Watermelon Feta Salad is perfect for summer grilling, bringing a juicy sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory grilled flavors. Its refreshing qualities and unique combination of sweet and salty make it a standout side dish for any barbecue.

What Unique and Creative Grilling Sides Can You Try?

There are many unique and creative grilling sides that can elevate your barbecue experience:

• Grilled Watermelon Salad: This refreshing salad combines sweet grilled watermelon with feta cheese, mint, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. The heat of the grill caramelizes the sugars in the watermelon, enhancing its sweetness and adding a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the salty feta and fresh herbs.
• Spicy Grilled Corn on the Cob: Elevate traditional corn on the cob by grilling it and then slathering it with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese. The grilling process adds a charred, nutty flavor, while the toppings provide a creamy, zesty twist that will make it a standout side dish.
• Grilled Cauliflower Steaks: Thick slices of cauliflower can be seasoned and grilled to create a hearty, flavorful side that can stand up to any main dish. The grilling process enhances the cauliflower’s natural nuttiness and allows for a variety of seasonings, from garlic and herbs to spicy marinades, making it versatile and satisfying.
• Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers can be grilled whole and stuffed with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, then grilled until tender. This dish not only offers a vibrant presentation but also packs a nutritious punch, providing a delicious and fulfilling side that complements grilled meats well.
• Herbed Grilled Potatoes: Baby potatoes tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs can be skewered and grilled until crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the aromatic herbs creates a simple yet exceptional side that pairs well with almost any grilled entrée.
• Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Asparagus spears lightly drizzled with olive oil and grilled until tender can be finished with a sprinkle of lemon zest and Parmesan cheese. This method retains the freshness and crunch of the asparagus while adding a delightful citrusy brightness that complements grilled dishes perfectly.
• Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls can be skewered and grilled for a fun and easy side. The grilling imparts a smoky flavor to the tomatoes while the cheese remains creamy, making these skewers a delightful, bite-sized accompaniment to any grilled meal.
• Grilled Zucchini Chips: Thinly sliced zucchini can be brushed with olive oil, seasoned, and grilled until crispy, creating a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips. The grilling process enhances the zucchini’s flavor and adds a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect side for barbecues.

How About Incorporating Grilled Flatbreads or Breads?

Incorporating grilled flatbreads or breads as sides can elevate your grilling experience with their unique flavors and versatility.

• Pita Bread: Grilled pita bread is a great option as it becomes warm, slightly crispy, and perfect for dipping or filling. You can brush it with olive oil and sprinkle some herbs before grilling for added flavor.
• Naan: This Indian flatbread is soft and pillowy, making it an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables. When grilled, naan takes on a delightful char and can be served with various dips or used to make wraps.
• Flatbreads: A simple flatbread recipe can be customized with toppings like garlic, rosemary, or cheese before grilling. The result is a delicious, smoky bread that pairs well with grilled dishes and can even be used as a base for mini pizzas.
• Ciabatta: Grilled ciabatta bread has an airy texture that becomes wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside. It can be sliced and served alongside grilled vegetables or used to make sandwiches with your grilled meats.
• Focaccia: This Italian bread is flavorful and can be infused with herbs and olive oil before grilling. Focaccia can be served as an appetizer or a side, and it holds up well with dips or as a base for a grilled sandwich.

What are the Essential Tips for Preparing Perfect Grilling Sides?

When preparing the best grilling sides, there are several essential tips to consider for enhancing flavor and complementing your main dish.

• Choose Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables not only taste better but also add vibrant colors to your plate. Grilling enhances their natural sweetness and provides a smoky flavor, making them ideal companions for grilled meats.
• Marinate for Flavor: Marinating your sides, such as potatoes or corn, can infuse them with additional flavors and tenderize them. Use a mix of oils, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful marinade that can elevate the overall taste of your meal.
• Consider Texture: Aim for a mix of textures in your sides to create a more satisfying meal. Incorporating crunchy elements like grilled asparagus or crispy potatoes alongside softer options like a creamy coleslaw can provide a delightful contrast.
• Pre-Cook When Necessary: Some sides, like potatoes or root vegetables, may require pre-cooking to ensure they are tender by the time your main dish is ready. Parboiling these items before grilling will reduce cooking time and prevent burning on the grill.
• Use Flavorful Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs and spices can elevate your grilling sides significantly. Experimenting with different combinations, such as rosemary on potatoes or cilantro on corn, can add a fresh burst of flavor that complements your main dish.
• Think Beyond Vegetables: While vegetables are popular, consider incorporating grains or legumes as sides. Grilled quinoa or a chickpea salad can provide a nutritious and hearty option that balances the meal while adding variety.
• Utilize Foil Packets: Cooking sides in foil packets on the grill allows for easy cleanup and even cooking. This method is perfect for items like mixed vegetables or potatoes, as they steam in their own juices, retaining moisture and flavor.
• Serve with Dips or Sauces: Enhancing your sides with complementary dips or sauces can elevate their taste. A tangy yogurt sauce or a zesty chimichurri can provide an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with grilled items.

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