Creative, Plant-Based BBQ Sides

Just in time for grilling season!

With Memorial Day fast approaching, it’s safe to say that it’s almost summer. And with its warmer, longer days comes the opportunity to prepare and eat more meals outside (or at least with the windows open!) 

When it comes to BBQ, we’ve got the main course covered with our BBQ Jackfruit and Plant-Based Pulled Pork (paired with the perfect sauce.) After that, the options for veg-friendly sides are seemingly endless. To help you add more plants to your plate this grilling season, we’re sharing ten creative (and delicious!) plant-based BBQ sides we can’t wait to make.

Grilled Corn with Kale Pesto

Sweet corn on the cob is a summertime classic. Top with a fresh and vibrant pesto for an unexpectedly delightful flavor combination you’ll want to make again and again.

Grilled Cabbage with Asian Lime Dressing

If you’ve never had your cabbage grilled before, you’re missing out. But don’t worry, this simple recipe (complete with a craveable dressing) is a great place to start.

Grilled Thai Marinated Maitake Mushrooms

Another unexpected addition to your grill is mushrooms. The meaty texture allows them to hold up well, while the Asian-style marinade adds bright, refreshing flavors.

Grilled Peach and Tomato Salad

Nothing says summer like the combination of ripe peaches and tomatoes. As soon as we can get our hands on both, we’ll definitely be making this colorful and tasty salad.

Southwest Black Bean Pasta Salad

Looking for something more substantial? This pasta salad differentiates itself with Southwestern seasonings, cubed avocado, and the kick of fresh jalapeño.

Smoky Vegan Carrot Dogs

Okay, this one might fall more into the entrée category, but we couldn’t leave it out! If you’re tired of the same veggie burgers and brats, you’ve got to try this creative spin.

Vegetarian BBQ Baked Beans

Add an extra dose of plant-based protein to your summertime spread with some sweet and smoky baked beans. We love the addition of carrots and red onions in this version.

Grilled Eggplant Tahini Kabobs

If you love baba ganoush, you’ll definitely love these kabobs that feature similar flavors on a grill-friendly stick. This is a great way to use eggplants from your garden or market stand.

Vegan Satay with Peanut Sauce

Not a fan of eggplant but still want to get in on the skewer action? Try this recipe instead! It’s highly adaptable so use whatever veggies you have—but don’t forget the peanut sauce.

Smoky Sweet Vegan Collard Greens

This plant-based twist on a classic BBQ side packs so much flavor, you won’t miss the meat. But if you’d like to amp things up, add our Plant-Based Pulled Pork to make it an amazing meatless meal.

Still hungry? For more delicious, meatless recipes to get you through summer and beyond, be sure to visit our Recipes page.