Best Vegan BBQ Side Dish Recipes for Summer Gatherings

Summer is here, and with it comes the irresistible aroma of BBQ grills firing up in backyards everywhere. But if you’re vegan or simply looking to add some plant-based flare to your cookout, finding delicious and satisfying side dishes can sometimes feel like a challenge.

Fear not! This collection of the best vegan BBQ side dish recipes is here to elevate your next barbecue with vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and hearty textures that everyone will love.

Whether you’re craving smoky, tangy, or savory, these recipes are designed to complement any main dish, from grilled veggies to vegan burgers. With easy-to-follow instructions and wholesome ingredients, your BBQ spread will be the talk of the neighborhood.

Ready to impress your guests with sides that are both nutritious and delicious? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering vegan BBQ side dishes that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

These vegan BBQ side dishes stand out because they are packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for sharing. Each recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients combined with bold spices and smoky elements that capture the essence of a classic barbecue without any animal products.

Not only do these dishes cater to vegans and vegetarians, but they also appeal to anyone looking to add more plant-based options to their meals. They’re versatile enough to pair with grilled tofu, tempeh, or even your favorite vegan burger.

Plus, many of these sides can be made ahead, making your BBQ day less stressful and more enjoyable!

Ingredients

Vegan BBQ Baked Beans

• 2 cups cooked navy beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp liquid smoke (optional)

Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad

• 4 ears fresh corn, husked
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Smoky BBQ Coleslaw

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large spoon for stirring
• Baking dish or casserole dish (for baked beans)
• Salad bowl
• Aluminum foil (optional, for grilling corn)

Instructions

Vegan BBQ Baked Beans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked navy beans, tomato sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke if using.
3. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
6. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the top to thicken slightly.
7. Serve warm as a hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled mains.

Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Place the husked corn directly on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
3. Remove corn from the grill and let it cool slightly.
4. Cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife and transfer to a large salad bowl.
5. Add diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro to the bowl.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
8. Serve immediately for a fresh and smoky side.

Smoky BBQ Coleslaw

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, toss again and adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips & Variations

“For a tangier kick in your baked beans, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of hot sauce.”

Feel free to customize these recipes based on your preferences and seasonal availability. For example, the coleslaw can easily be switched up with purple cabbage or even shredded kale for a nutrient boost.

If you prefer a creamier dressing, blend some soaked cashews with lemon juice and garlic for a homemade vegan mayo alternative.

Grilling the corn adds a smoky depth, but if you don’t have a grill, roasting the corn in the oven or pan-searing it works just as well. Adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the corn salad brings a nice spicy dimension.

For those who want to make these recipes ahead of time, the baked beans and coleslaw taste even better after sitting overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to add the avocado to the salad right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan BBQ sides shine alongside grilled seitan steaks, tofu skewers, or plant-based burgers. Pair the baked beans with some cornbread or check out our Magic Dough Recipe for a perfect vegan bread option.

The grilled corn and avocado salad offers a refreshing balance to spicy BBQ dishes, and the coleslaw adds a creamy, smoky crunch that complements any smoky main.

For a full BBQ spread, try adding some baked potatoes or roasted veggies, and don’t forget to cool off with a refreshing drink like our Large Batch Bloody Mary Recipe, veganized of course!

Conclusion

Creating delicious vegan BBQ sides has never been easier or more exciting. These recipes combine bold flavors and fresh ingredients, ensuring that your plant-based BBQ spreads are just as satisfying as traditional ones.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard party, a picnic, or a casual family dinner, these dishes will bring color, texture, and taste to your table.

Experiment with these recipes, tweak them to your liking, and enjoy the process of crafting meals that celebrate vegan cooking at its finest. For more inspiring vegan recipes, be sure to check out our Julie Marie Eats Recipes collection.

Happy grilling and bon appétit!

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