Summer is upon us and there’s no better time to barbecue. But no matter how protein-centered barbecues are, we all know that they are really about the side dishes. And those side dishes can be completely carefree when you can just throw them on the grill.
Here are 8 foods you can grill alongside your protein to compliment any backyard barbecue or patio party:
1. Bread
Lightly grill both sides of thickly-sliced rustic bread. Rub with cut garlic and drizzle with olive oil. So simple, yet the perfect side dish for any meal.
2. Swiss Chard stems
Usually wasted, these stems shine on the grill. First, cut off the greens (and use elsewhere), toss the whole stems in olive oil and salt. Char well and serve cut up or whole.
3. Green onions
Go for the biggies or grab small sweet onions. Cut in half lengthwise, give them a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Then grill until the edges are blackened and the onion is slightly softened.
4. Kale
Think kale chips, but done in a minute on the barbecue. Of course you can do the traditional oil and salt, or you can kick it up a notch Vikram Vij style (which I highly recommend).
5. Radishes
These knobby, pungent little roots finally get their day in the sun and are transformed into a tasty side dish when tossed with a little oil, salt and a hot flame.
6. Haloumi
This salty Middle-Eastern cheese is built for heat. Grill slices or skewer cubes for kebabs. Then serve it up with grilled vegetables or a tomato salad. It will not disappoint!
7. Japanese eggplant
Give these tender purple eggplants some heat to turn them to butter. If you add a miso glaze you will instantly become a barbecue rockstar.
8. Peaches
Technically you can grill peaches with protein for a side dish or relish, but they are so much better at the end of a meal. Just a sprinkle of sugar turns peaches into the oozing, sweet finale to your meal. Serve them with a touch of ice cream or honey-sweetened Greek yogurt.
And if you love grilling food, be sure to check out some Francis Mallman videos on YouTube for more inspiration.
