Side dish smackdown: 13 knockout hits for labor day bbqs

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Hey BBQ aficionados and grill champs, get ready to kick your Labor Day cookout up a notch! We’ve rounded up 13 irresistible side dishes that are about to become the talk of the picnic table. From smoky grilled veggies to zesty salads that’ll have your taste buds doing the happy dance, we’ve got your Labor Day feast covered.

These sides aren’t just the supporting act – they’re the stars of the show! Whether you’re flipping burgers or sizzling steaks, these dishes will be your secret weapon for turning your BBQ into an unforgettable culinary experience. So grab your tongs and let’s dive into a world of flavor that’ll make your Labor Day celebration the highlight of the season!

Grilled potato wedges on grates of charcoal grill.
Grilled Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Grilled Green Beans

Grilled Asian green beans on a plate with a lemon wedge.
Grilled Green Beans. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Elevate your Labor Day BBQ with smoky char and tender bite of grilled green beans. Tossed in garlic soy sauce, they’re a quick and flavorful side that amps up your outdoor feast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Green Beans

Grilled Potato Wedges

Grilled potato wedges on grates of charcoal grill.
Grilled Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Steal the spotlight at your BBQ with grilled potato wedges. Crispy edges, tender inside, simply seasoned—they’re the ultimate companion for your choice of grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Potato Wedges

Garlic Basil Wax Beans

Wax beans with garlic and basil on a plate with a fork.
Garlic Basil Wax Beans. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Add color and taste to your BBQ with garlic basil wax beans. This simple side celebrates summer produce with sautéed garlic and fresh basil, making it a vibrant addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Basil Wax Beans

Parmesan Tomato Gratin

Tomato gratin in a white baking dish with serving spoon.
Parmesan Tomato Gratin. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bid adieu to summer in style with a parmesan tomato gratin. Topped with cheese and rosemary, this comforting dish brings flavors that resonate with the essence of the season’s end.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Tomato Gratin

Grilled Artichokes

Grilled artichokes on a plate with dipping sauce and lemon.
Grilled Artichokes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Infuse your Labor Day BBQ with the delightful smoky charm of grilled artichokes. Paired with tahini lemon dip, this twist on flavors adds uniqueness and depth to your outdoor feast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Artichokes

Stuffed Round Zucchini

Quinoa stuffed round zucchini in a baking dish.
Stuffed Round Zucchini. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Embrace late summer with stuffed round zucchini, a visual delight that’s perfect for baking and stuffing. As a wholesome side, it adds elegance and taste to your BBQ lineup.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Round Zucchini

Grilled Zucchini Stack

Grilled zucchini stacks with ricotta and green tomatoes on a plate.
Grilled Zucchini Stack. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Elevate your BBQ with grilled zucchini stacks, featuring fresh ricotta and green tomatoes. Bursting with flavor, these stacks are a vibrant and satisfying addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini Stack

Cucumber Melon Salad

Cucumber melon salad on a plate with a serving spoon.
Cucumber Melon Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Keep your BBQ cool and fresh with a cucumber melon salad. The sweet cantaloupe and tangy pickled onions harmonize with grilled meats, making it an ideal outdoor gathering side.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Melon Salad

Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad

Grilled summer vegetables with orzo on a white plate with a fork.
Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Elevate your BBQ with a grilled vegetable orzo salad, coated in Montmorency tart cherry balsamic glaze. Serve it warm or cold for a seasonal pasta dish that fits your Labor Day vibe.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad

Greek Pasta Salad

Greek pasta salad in a white bowl.
Greek Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lighten up your BBQ with a healthy Greek pasta salad. Fresh veggies and Better for You pasta unite in this smart choice, catering to various tastes while embracing the cookout spirit.
Get the Recipe: Greek Pasta Salad

Strawberry Avocado Honey Lime Salad

Strawberry avocado honey lime salad in a teal scalloped plate.
Strawberry Avocado Honey Lime Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bring a playful twist to your BBQ with a strawberry avocado honey lime salad. The dressing adds sweet and tangy excitement to your outdoor gathering, making it a delightful addition.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Avocado Honey Lime Salad

Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad

Tomato corn salad with shaved parmesan and basil garnish in white bowl.
Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Celebrate the simplicity of summer with a tomato corn salad, capturing the essence of the season with fresh ingredients that bring color and flavor to your Labor Day BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Simple Summer Tomato Corn Salad

Roasted Pesto Potatoes

Pesto potatoes on a blue plate.
Roasted Pesto Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Serve up versatility at your BBQ with roasted pesto potatoes. These flavorful spuds, optionally paired with crumbled bacon, complement meats and fish, impressing your guests with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pesto Potatoes

Grilled Baby Bok Choy

Grilled baby bok choy garnished with sesame seeds.
Grilled Baby Bok Choy. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Add an Asian flair to your Labor Day BBQ with grilled baby bok choy. This quick dish infuses Asian flavors into your spread, providing a delightful touch of exotic taste.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Baby Bok Choy

Basil Mint Squash Noodles

Basil mint squash noodles with freshly ground black pepper in a white bowl.
Basil Mint Squash Noodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Refresh your BBQ with basil mint squash noodles, whether as a light meal or side salad. Quick to prepare, they bring a rejuvenating note to your outdoor feast, keeping the festivities alive.
Get the Recipe: Basil Mint Squash Noodles

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