What To Know
- In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, basil, parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Beer can chicken is a beloved grilling technique that infuses chicken with juicy, smoky, and flavorful goodness. To elevate your grilling experience, exploring the perfect side dishes is crucial. This comprehensive guide will unveil a symphony of tantalizing side dishes that will harmoniously accompany your beer can chicken masterpiece.
Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Remove the husks and silk from the corn.
2. In a small bowl, combine the butter, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the herb butter evenly over the corn.
4. Grill the corn over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
Creamy Potato Salad
Ingredients:
- 5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, mayonnaise, sour cream, celery, onion, dill, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toss the asparagus with olive oil.
2. Grill the asparagus over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the lemon-Parmesan mixture over the grilled asparagus.
Summer Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (such as penne or bow tie)
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water.
3. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, basil, parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss until well combined.
Grilled Cornbread
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
6. Grill the cornbread for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup chopped bacon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat an oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss until well coated.
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts mixture on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly browned.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Grilling Experience
With these tantalizing side dishes, you can elevate your beer can chicken grilling experience to culinary heights. Whether you crave creamy potato salad, grilled asparagus with lemon and Parmesan, or roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, these recipes will harmoniously complement your juicy and smoky chicken. So fire up your grill, experiment with these side dishes, and savor the perfect pairing that will impress your taste buds and make your grilling gatherings unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these side dishes ahead of time?
A: Yes, most of these side dishes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Reheat them before serving.
Q: What are some other side dishes that would go well with beer can chicken?
A: Grilled zucchini, roasted potatoes with herbs, or a simple green salad would be excellent additions.
Q: What are some tips for grilling the perfect beer can chicken?
A: Use a flavorful beer, season the chicken well, and cook it over indirect heat for optimal juiciness.
