When serving grilled steak in summer, side dishes can make all the difference. Grilled corn on the cob, slathered in butter and chili seasoning, is a must-have. A fresh classic Caesar salad provides a nice counterbalance with its crunchy romaine and rich dressing. Garlic mashed potatoes add a comforting touch, and roasted asparagus brings a nutritious, crisp element. For a burst of flavor, try a Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. Combined, these selections will enhance the richness of your steak. There are even more side dishes that can elevate your summer cookout.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a quintessential side dish that perfectly complements the rich flavors of a well-cooked steak. Slathered in a generous butter spread and a hint of chili seasoning, this delightful treat offers a blend of sweetness and spice.
The buttery richness and subtle heat enhance every bite, making it a favorite at any summer cookout.
Classic Caesar Salad
While the smoky flavors of grilled corn tantalize the taste buds, a crisp and invigorating Classic Caesar Salad provides a perfect counterbalance to a hearty steak.
The salad boasts fresh romaine lettuce, crunchy homemade croutons, and a rich Caesar dressing. This combination offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience and making it a must-have summer side dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and aromatic, garlic mashed potatoes serve as a comforting and flavorful complement to any grilled steak. For added flair, experiment with herb variations like parsley or rosemary.
Texture tips: use a mix of russet and Yukon gold potatoes for a perfect blend of smooth and fluffy.
These potatoes, rich with garlic, are sure to enhance your summer grilling experience.
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus provides a crisp, nutritious, and visually appealing side dish that pairs excellently with grilled steak. Asparagus benefits include high fiber and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
Seasoning options are vast: a touch of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon can enhance its natural flavors, creating a delightful accompaniment to your summer steak.
Caprese Salad
A classic Caprese salad, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, offers an invigorating and vibrant side dish that complements the richness of grilled steak perfectly.
Drizzle with a tangy balsamic glaze to enhance the fresh flavors.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella creates an exhilarating contrast, making it an ideal choice for a summer meal with grilled steak.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
Complementing the freshness of Caprese salad, baked sweet potatoes offer a hearty and nutritious side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled steak. Their natural sweetness can be enhanced with sweet toppings like maple syrup or contrasted with savory spices such as cumin and paprika.
This versatility makes them a delightful addition to any summer meal, providing both flavor and nutritional benefits.
Coleslaw
Why not add an energizing and zesty coleslaw to your grilled steak dinner for a perfect balance of flavors?
Coleslaw variations, such as traditional cabbage or a mix of red and green cabbage with carrots, offer diverse tastes.
A well-crafted coleslaw dressing, whether creamy or vinegar-based, enhances the dish.
This invigorating side provides a crisp contrast to the rich, smoky steak.
Creamed Spinach
Rich and velvety, creamed spinach serves as an indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled steak. This classic dish offers a creamy texture while also providing spinach nutrition, making it both delicious and healthy.
The smooth, rich sauce complements the robust flavors of grilled steak, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delightful combination for a summer feast to remember.
Greek Pasta Salad
Greek pasta salad provides a revitalizing and tangy side dish that enhances the flavors of grilled steak. Featuring Mediterranean ingredients like olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes, it offers a delightful contrast to the rich, smoky taste of the meat.
The colorful presentation of this salad not only pleases the palate but also adds visual appeal to your summer table.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Complementing the vibrant flavors of Greek pasta salad, sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy depth and umami richness to your grilled steak spread.
Experiment with mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for diverse textures.
For perfect seasoning, use garlic, thyme, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
These tips elevate the mushrooms, making them an irresistible side dish for any summer meal.
Quinoa Salad
For a nutritious and flavorful side, quinoa salad offers a perfect balance of texture and taste to accompany your grilled steak.
This dish provides significant nutritional benefits, being high in protein and fiber.
Flavor combinations in quinoa salads can be varied with ingredients like fresh vegetables, herbs, and tangy dressings, making it a versatile and invigorating complement to your summer meal.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables bring vibrant flavors and essential nutrients to your meal, making them an ideal side dish for grilled steak. Use simple grilling tips like preheating the grill and cutting veggies evenly for best results.
Enhance flavors with vegetable marinades, combining olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This adds depth and keeps them juicy.
Enjoy a colorful, nutritious complement to your steak.
Tomato Cucumber Salad
An invigorating tomato cucumber salad offers a crisp and tangy contrast to the richness of grilled steak. Combining Mediterranean flavors, this salad features juicy tomatoes and fresh cucumbers, delivering a revitalizing crunch that complements the hearty main dish.
Simply toss with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a light, vibrant side that enhances your summer meal experience, making it both satisfying and revitalizing.
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Loaded baked potatoes offer a hearty and indulgent side dish that perfectly complements the smoky flavors of grilled steak. Topped with savory toppings like melted cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon, these potatoes provide a burst of rich, satisfying flavors.
Their fluffy interior and crispy skin create a delightful contrast, making them a crowd-pleaser at any summer barbecue or gathering.
Can the Same Side Dishes be Served with Grilled Steak and Pulled BBQ Chicken?
When deciding on the best side dishes for pulled BBQ chicken and grilled steak, it’s important to consider options that complement both meats. Classic choices like coleslaw, mac and cheese, and cornbread are versatile enough to pair well with both dishes, making them ideal choices for a delicious and cohesive meal.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon feta salad offers an exhilarating and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of grilled steak. This delightful flavor combination pairs sweet, juicy watermelon with the salty, creamy bite of feta cheese, creating an invigorating contrast that's perfect for summer.
A sprinkle of fresh mint and a drizzle of balsamic glaze elevate this simple salad, making it a must-have side dish.