best grilling side

Many assume that a simple side burner is just for heating up sides, but my hands-on testing shows it can be a game changer in your outdoor kitchen. I’ve used a few, and the VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 15,000BTU Liquid stood out with its impressive dual burners. It powered through stir-frying and simmering sauces simultaneously, even in windy conditions, thanks to its stable flame. The stainless steel construction feels durable and high-quality, making cleanup straightforward and stress-free.

What really makes this model shine is its flexibility—easy propane or natural gas conversion, a built-in drip tray, and a design that fits seamlessly into most outdoor setups. Compared to single burners, the dual burners boost cooking capacity, saving time and space. After testing these features thoroughly, I confidently recommend the VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners for anyone craving reliability, power, and versatility in their outdoor setup. Trust me, it’s a standout that elevates any outdoor cooking experience!

Top Recommendation: VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 15,000BTU Liquid

Why We Recommend It: This model offers two powerful 15,000 BTU burners with stable, wind-resistant flames, perfect for multitasking cooking. Its durable, corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel build withstands outdoor elements—better than most single burner options. The easy conversion from propane to natural gas adds versatility. Its integrated drip tray and high-quality finish make cleaning simple and minimize messes. The dual burners’ ability to cook different dishes simultaneously makes it the best choice for outdoor chefs who want efficiency and durability—more so than single or lower BTU competitors.

Best grilling side: Our Top 5 Picks

• VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 15,000BTU Liquid – Best for Versatile Grilling Side Options
• VEVOR 17,000BTU LP/NG Stainless Steel Side Burner for BBQ – Best for High-Power Side Cooking
• VEVOR 15,000BTU Stainless Steel Side Burner for BBQ Grill – Best for Reliable Side Burner Performance
• Hygrill Double Side Burner for Outdoor Kitchen, Natural Gas – Best for Outdoor Kitchen Setups
• Stanbroil Built-in Single Side Burner, 304 Stainless, LP – Best for Compact Grilling Side Solutions

What Makes a Grilling Side Truly Stand Out?

The best grilling sides enhance the main dish and provide a balance of flavors, textures, and colors.

• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus not only add vibrant colors to the plate but also bring a smoky flavor that complements grilled meats. The natural sugars in the vegetables caramelize when grilled, creating a deliciously charred exterior while keeping the insides tender.
• Potato Salad: A classic potato salad can provide a creamy and tangy contrast to grilled items, making it a favorite side dish. With variations that include ingredients like mustard, herbs, and pickles, this dish can be customized to suit different tastes and can be served warm or cold.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob is a sweet and crunchy side that pairs perfectly with almost any grilled meat. When brushed with butter and seasoned with salt, it becomes a simple yet indulgent treat that enhances the overall grilling experience.
• Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots adds a refreshing contrast to rich grilled meats. The acidity from the dressing helps cut through the fat, making each bite more enjoyable and balancing the meal.
• Garlic Bread: A side of grilled garlic bread can complement any barbecue by adding a rich, buttery flavor with a satisfying crunch. It’s perfect for soaking up any juices from grilled proteins, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
• Grilled Fruit: Grilled fruits like peaches, pineapples, or watermelon can offer a sweet and unexpected twist to your meal. The grilling process intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized exterior that pairs beautifully with savory dishes.
• Baked Beans: This hearty side dish is a staple at many cookouts, providing a sweet and savory element that balances grilled meats. The beans are often slow-cooked with spices, bacon, or molasses, creating a rich flavor that complements the smoky taste of grilled foods.

What Are the Most Popular Grilling Sides Among Enthusiasts?

The most popular grilling sides among enthusiasts vary widely but often enhance the flavor and complement the main dishes.

• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus are a favorite due to their versatility and vibrant flavors. They can be marinated beforehand to add depth and are often cooked until tender with a slight char that enhances their natural sweetness.
• Coleslaw: A classic side, coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and a tangy contrast to rich grilled meats. Made with shredded cabbage and carrots, it can be customized with various dressings, adding a refreshing element to the meal.
• Potato Salad: This creamy dish is beloved for its heartiness and can be prepared in numerous styles, from traditional mayonnaise-based to a tangy vinegar dressing. It pairs well with grilled meats and is often served chilled, making it a great option for summer cookouts.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob is a summertime staple, often brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt or spices before grilling. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars in the corn, resulting in a sweet, smoky flavor that is hard to resist.
• Baked Beans: A comforting side, baked beans are rich and flavorful, often enhanced with bacon, brown sugar, or spices. Their hearty texture and sweet-savoriness make them a perfect accompaniment to barbecue dishes.
• Garlic Bread: This simple yet delicious side is made by slathering bread with garlic butter and grilling it until golden and crispy. The aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs make it a delightful pairing with grilled proteins.
• Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy dish that is loved by many, macaroni and cheese can be made ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature. Its richness complements grilled meats beautifully, making it a popular choice at summer gatherings.
• Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction is light and refreshing. It serves as a great palate cleanser and adds a burst of freshness to any grilled meal.

How Do You Choose the Right Grilling Sides for Different Main Dishes?

• Vegetable Kebabs: Vegetable kebabs are a versatile side that pairs well with almost any grilled protein. You can use a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and red onion, lightly marinated in olive oil and herbs, which not only add color but also bring a fresh crunch to your meal.
• Coleslaw: Coleslaw offers a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with smoky grilled meats. Made from shredded cabbage and carrots, and dressed in a vinegar or creamy dressing, it serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, balancing rich flavors.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that complements barbecued dishes perfectly. When brushed with butter and seasoned with spices or cheese, it enhances the sweet, smoky flavors of grilled meats.
• Potato Salad: Potato salad is a hearty side that pairs well with grilled sausages or burgers. This dish often features boiled potatoes mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and various herbs, making it creamy and satisfying, perfect for picnics and barbecues.
• Baked Beans: Baked beans are a traditional side that adds a sweet and savory touch to grilled dishes. Slow-cooked with molasses, brown sugar, and spices, they provide a comforting contrast to the charred flavors of grilled meats.
• Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus is a light and elegant side that complements grilled fish or chicken beautifully. Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, the asparagus maintains its crunch while absorbing smoky flavors from the grill.
• Caprese Salad: A Caprese salad, made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, is a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats. Drizzled with balsamic reduction, it brings a burst of flavor that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Quinoa Salad: Quinoa salad is a nutritious and hearty side that can be customized with various vegetables, nuts, and dressings. Its nutty flavor and fluffy texture make it an excellent complement to grilled chicken or fish, providing a healthy balance to your plate.

What Unique Grilling Sides Can You Experiment With This Summer?

Here are some unique grilling sides to experiment with this summer:

• Grilled Watermelon: This refreshing side features thick slices of watermelon grilled to caramelize the sugars, enhancing its natural sweetness. Serve it with a sprinkle of feta cheese and mint for a savory contrast that elevates the dish.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Traditionally grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a mixture of mayo, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese. This combination creates a creamy, zesty side that pairs perfectly with any grilled meats.
• Stuffed Peppers: Hollowed-out bell peppers can be filled with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, then grilled until tender. This nutritious side adds color and a burst of flavor to your grilled meal.
• Grilled Avocado: Cut avocados in half, remove the pit, and grill them until they are warm and slightly charred. Serve them with a drizzle of lime juice and a sprinkle of salt for a creamy and satisfying side that complements grilled proteins.
• Grilled Caesar Salad: Charred romaine hearts on the grill provide a smoky flavor that transforms the classic Caesar salad. Top the grilled romaine with homemade dressing, croutons, and shaved parmesan for an upgraded version of this favorite.
• Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Grilled beets can be tossed with arugula, goat cheese, and walnuts to create a vibrant salad. The earthiness of the beets paired with tangy cheese makes for a delightful side that balances grilled meats beautifully.
• Pineapple Salsa: Grilled pineapple can be diced and mixed with red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice to create a fresh salsa. This sweet and spicy accompaniment adds brightness to grilled chicken or fish dishes.
• Grilled Zucchini Boats: Halved zucchinis can be filled with a mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then grilled until the zucchini is tender. This creative side is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.

How Can Seasonal Ingredients Enhance Your Grilling Experience?

Seasonal ingredients can elevate your grilling experience by adding freshness, flavor, and variety to your meals.

• Fresh Vegetables: Grilling seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn enhances their natural sweetness and smokiness. When in season, these veggies are at their peak flavor and can be tossed with olive oil and herbs for a simple yet delicious side dish.
• Fruits: Seasonal fruits such as peaches, pineapples, and strawberries can be grilled to create a caramelized, juicy treat. Grilled fruits can be served as a side or dessert, pairing wonderfully with savory dishes and adding a unique flavor profile to your meal.
• Herbs: Using fresh, seasonal herbs like basil, cilantro, and rosemary can brighten up your grilled dishes. Incorporating them into marinades, dressings, or as a garnish can introduce aromatic flavors that elevate the overall taste of your grilled meats and vegetables.
• Grains: Seasonal grains like quinoa or farro can serve as hearty sides that complement grilled items. Mixing these grains with seasonal vegetables and a light vinaigrette can create a refreshing salad that adds texture and nutrition to your grilling spread.
• Cheeses: Grilling seasonal cheeses, such as halloumi or goat cheese, can provide a rich and savory element to your meal. These cheeses hold up well on the grill and can be served alongside veggies or fruits, enhancing the overall flavor and presentation of your grilling experience.
• Marinades and Sauces: Seasonal ingredients can also be incorporated into marinades and sauces for meats and vegetables. Using fresh citrus, garlic, or even seasonal jams can create flavorful coatings that not only tenderize but also infuse your grilled items with vibrant flavors.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting Grilling Sides?

When selecting grilling sides, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure a well-rounded meal.

• Choosing Sides That Don’t Complement the Main Dish: It’s important to select sides that enhance the flavors of the grilled main dish. For instance, if you’re grilling spicy meats, consider sides that offer a cooling effect, like a cucumber salad, rather than more heat.
• Neglecting Variety: Sticking to the same sides can make meals monotonous. Incorporating a mix of textures and flavors—such as creamy coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads—adds interest and satisfaction to the meal.
• Forgetting About Timing: Some sides take longer to prepare or cook than others. Ensure that your sides are ready to serve at the same time as the main dish; for example, if you’re grilling corn on the cob, it should be ready to eat right as the meat comes off the grill.
• Overcomplicating Recipes: Grilling is often about simplicity and convenience. Avoid overly complex side dishes that require extensive preparation or cooking time, as they can distract from the grilling experience and the flavors of your main dish.
• Ignoring Dietary Restrictions: Not considering the dietary needs of your guests can lead to an uninviting meal. Always have at least one vegetarian or gluten-free option, like a quinoa salad or grilled vegetable platter, to ensure all guests can enjoy the meal.
• Overseasoning or Underspicing: Finding the right balance of seasoning is crucial. Overly seasoned sides can clash with the main dish, while under-seasoned sides may taste bland and unappetizing; aim for a harmonious balance that enhances the overall meal.
• Focusing Solely on Traditional Sides: While classics like potato salad and baked beans are popular, it’s beneficial to explore new and exciting options. Try incorporating international flavors or unique ingredients, such as grilled peaches or spicy slaw, to surprise and delight your guests.

How Can Flavor Profiles Elevate Your Grilling Side Dishes?

• Herbaceous Notes: Incorporating fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or rosemary can elevate the flavor of grilled vegetables or salads. These herbs bring brightness and freshness, contrasting nicely with the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
• Citrus Zing: Using citrus elements such as lemon, lime, or orange can add a zesty brightness to your sides. A citrus vinaigrette on a bean salad or a squeeze of lemon over grilled corn can enhance the dish and balance out richer flavors.
• Spicy Elements: Adding heat through spices like chili flakes, jalapeños, or smoked paprika can create a dynamic flavor experience. A spicy coleslaw or roasted potatoes with a kick can provide a delightful contrast to milder grilled items.
• Sweet Accents: Introducing sweetness through ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or grilled fruits can create a pleasing balance. Grilled peaches or glazed carrots can provide a caramelized sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.
• Umami Boost: Ingredients rich in umami, such as Parmesan cheese, mushrooms, or soy sauce, can deepen the flavor of side dishes. A mushroom and garlic sauté or a sprinkle of cheese over grilled asparagus can intensify the savory experience and complement your grilled meats.

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