Smoked Sides Recipes That Elevate Every BBQ Meal

Smoked sides add a whole new dimension to your barbecue or dinner table, transforming simple vegetables and grains into smoky, flavorful masterpieces. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a hearty meal, smoked sides bring out deep, rich tastes that complement any main dish perfectly.

From tender smoked corn on the cob to smoky sweet potatoes and even infused beans, these recipes are packed with character and warmth. Smoking not only enhances the flavor but also infuses a rustic charm that’s hard to beat.

If you’re new to smoking sides or want to broaden your culinary repertoire, this collection of smoked sides recipes is a fantastic place to start.

In this post, we’ll explore a variety of smoked side dishes that are easy to prepare, delicious, and versatile enough to pair with any meal. Whether you have a dedicated smoker or are using a grill with a smoking setup, these recipes will guide you through the process step-by-step.

Let’s dive into smoky goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoking side dishes is an excellent way to elevate your meal with minimal effort. Not only do these recipes bring out unique, complex flavors, but they also add a delightful smokiness that complements grilled meats, vegan dishes, and everything in between.

Smoking allows natural sugars and spices to deepen in flavor while maintaining a tender texture. Plus, many smoked sides can be prepped in advance, making them perfect for entertaining.

These recipes are adaptable and easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. You’ll love how the smoky aroma fills your kitchen and how these sides become the star of any meal.

If you’re interested in plant-based options, don’t miss our Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• Corn on the cob – 4 ears, husked
• Sweet potatoes – 3 medium, scrubbed and sliced
• Baby carrots – 1 lb, peeled
• Green beans – 1 lb, trimmed
• Olive oil – 1/4 cup
• Smoked paprika – 1 tbsp
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
• Honey or maple syrup – 2 tbsp (optional, for glazing sweet potatoes)
• Fresh thyme or rosemary – 1 tbsp, chopped
• BBQ baked beans – 2 cups, prepared or canned

Equipment

• Smoker or charcoal grill with smoker box
• Wood chips (hickory, apple, or mesquite preferred)
• Grill tongs
• Mixing bowls
• Basting brush
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer or digital probe (optional for checking internal temps of veggies)
• Vegetable peeler and knife

Instructions

1. Prepare the smoker: Soak your wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning too quickly. Preheat your smoker or grill to a steady 225°F (107°C) for low and slow smoking.
2. Season the vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes, baby carrots, and green beans with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs. For sweet potatoes, add honey or maple syrup for a caramelized glaze.
3. Smoke the corn: Wrap each ear of husked corn in aluminum foil with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt. Place them directly on the smoker rack and cook for about 45-60 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Smoke the other vegetables: Arrange the seasoned sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans in a grill-safe pan or on foil trays. Place them on the smoker grate alongside the corn. Smoke for 1 to 1.5 hours until tender and infused with smoke flavor, stirring or turning halfway through for even cooking.
5. Warm the baked beans: Place BBQ baked beans in a covered foil pan and position it near the heat source inside the smoker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to absorb some smoky flavor.
6. Check for doneness: Use a fork to test the tenderness of the veggies. Sweet potatoes should be soft and easily pierced, while carrots and green beans should be tender but not mushy.
7. Serve: Remove all smoked sides from the smoker, let them cool slightly, and transfer to serving dishes. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

Using different wood chips will alter the flavor profile of your smoked sides. Applewood offers a sweeter, milder smoke, while hickory and mesquite provide a bolder, more intense flavor.

Experiment to find your favorite!

For a vegan twist on baked beans, try making your own from scratch or check out our Barbecue Beans Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Meal Idea for inspiration.

Try adding smoked sides like grilled asparagus or smoked mushrooms for variety. You can also toss smoked vegetables into salads or grain bowls for a smoky, hearty boost.

For a lighter option, consider smoking cauliflower steaks or zucchini slices.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Smoked sides pair wonderfully with grilled or smoked meats like brisket, ribs, or chicken, but they’re equally delicious alongside vegetarian mains. Try serving them with a fresh green salad or alongside hearty grains like quinoa or rice.

For a vibrant, plant-based meal, combine these smoky vegetables with a bowl of your favorite vegan chili or barbecue beans. For more plant-forward ideas, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Conclusion

Smoked sides bring a wonderful depth of flavor and a rustic charm to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create deliciously tender and richly smoky vegetables that complement a wide range of dishes.

Whether you’re a barbecue enthusiast or just starting to explore smoking techniques, these recipes are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Experiment with different vegetables, seasonings, and wood chips to make these sides your own. The smoky aroma and satisfying taste will keep everyone coming back for more.

And if you’re looking for other easy, healthy, and flavorful recipes to serve alongside, be sure to browse our collection of 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals.

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