Ideas

Summer Extras: Side Dishes for Every Outdoor Hang

Published on June 6, 2025

Main dishes usually get all the glory at summer BBQs, but we’re here to give some love to the extras. These simple, crowd-pleasing side dishes are made for warm evenings, good company, and that second glass of wine.

Heirloom Tomato Slices
Let the tomatoes shine. Thick slices of heirloom tomatoes drizzled with olive oil, cracked pepper, flaky salt, and a sprinkle of herbs (basil, chives, or whatever’s on hand) make for a colorful and juicy plate that pairs with just about anything.
Handheld Caesar Salad
Skip the bowl and go handheld. Take sturdy romaine leaves, lightly grill or chill them, and top with an easy homemade Caesar dressing, a sprinkle of grated Parm, and crunchy breadcrumbs. Bonus points for adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a mini salad-on-the-go.
Grilled Shishito Peppers
Toss them in olive oil, throw them on the grill until blistered, and finish with a squeeze of lemon and a dash of Celtic Sea Salt. These peppers are wildly snackable, don’t be surprised when they disappear in five minutes flat.

Whether you’re planning a backyard dinner or a casual park picnic, these extras are easy to prep, fun to share, and taste even better with a chilled bottle of wine. Here’s a fun video from our Instagram prepping these sides.

platter of tomatoes and shishito peppers