Labor Day is a time to celebrate the American worker. It's not only a time to reflect on the hard work that has gone into making our country what it is today but it's also a day off to enjoy time with family and friends, barbecues and picnics in the park, and just relaxing in general.
A good BBQ is not complete without some great side dishes! While the main event may be the protein cooked on the grill, it's the sides that can really make or break a meal. From classics like potato salad and coleslaw to more unique dishes like grilled corn on the cob or watermelon salad, there's something for everyone at a BBQ.
Not only do side dishes provide variety and balance to a meal, but they can also be a real crowd-pleaser. After all, who doesn't love a delicious plate of food that has been expertly prepared? So if you're planning on firing up the grill this summer, don't forget to include some amazing sides in your spread! Try one (or all!) of them the next time you fire up the grill.
Herbed Potato Salad: This creamy potato salad is full of flavorful herbs like dill, basil, and chives.
Ingredients:
-4 cups potatoes, diced
-1/2 cup onion, diced
-1/2 cup celery, diced
-1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
-1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
-3 tablespoons olive oil
-3 tablespoons vinegar
-salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, onion, celery, parsley and dill.
2. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour over the potato mixture and stir to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight. Serve cold or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad: Sweet watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint come together in this refreshing salad.
Ingredients:
1 small seedless watermelon, cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, feta cheese, mint, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Grilled Corn with Herb Butter: Buttery, grilled corn on the cob is taken to the next level with flavorful herb butter.
Ingredients:
-4 ears of corn, husks and silk removed
-1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
-2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, thyme, or basil)
-Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine the butter, herbs, salt and pepper.
3. Rub the herb butter all over the corn.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
Rosemary Roasted Potatoes: These roasted potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The rosemary adds a nice earthy flavor.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Cut potatoes into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown and tender. Serve warm. Enjoy!
Cucumber, Tomato, and Dill Salad: This simple salad is perfect for a summer BBQ. The dill really brightens up the flavors.
Ingredients:
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
2 tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/4 cup white vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, dill, vinegar, oil, salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
With Labor Day just around the corner, it's time to start planning your menu. While burgers and hot dogs are always a hit, don't forget about the side dishes! Herbs make delicious and easy side dishes for any barbecue. From simple herb salads to pesto pasta, we've got you covered with recipes that will impress your guests. So fire up the grill and get cooking! And don't forget Herbie to make those herb-infused dishes a breeze!
What are your favorite side dishes to serve at a BBQ? Let us know in the comments!