15 Fresh and Flavorful BBQ Side Salads

Elevate your outdoor cooking gatherings with an array of fresh and flavorful salads that perfectly complement any grilled main course. These versatile dishes range from creamy classics to vibrant, zesty creations, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. Discover new favorites that will make your next backyard meal truly special.

This recipe and accompanying image were created with the help of AI for inspiration and guidance. Results may vary depending on ingredients, equipment, and technique.

1. Copycat CPK BBQ Chicken Salad

Copycat CPK BBQ Chicken Salad

Recreate a restaurant favorite with this fresh mix of chopped romaine, sweet corn, and aromatic basil and cilantro. You will love how the savory BBQ flavors balance with the crisp greens and herbaceous notes.

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2. Vegan Chickpea and Charred Corn Couscous Salad

Vegan Chickpea and Charred Corn Couscous Salad

Charred sweet corn and hearty chickpeas bring texture to this light, fluffy couscous dish. The zesty lime dressing adds a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with smoky grilled vegetables.

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3. Classic Creamy Egg Salad

Classic Creamy Egg Salad

Creamy hard-boiled eggs meet the sharp tang of Dijon mustard and the crunch of minced dill pickles in this classic side. Sprinkle with fresh chives for a savory finish that complements any barbecue spread.

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4. Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Easy Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Utilize savory rotisserie meat—including the skin—to add rich flavor and texture to this creamy mixture. Fresh dill and finely chopped onion cut through the mayonnaise for a balanced, herbaceous bite.

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5. DIY BBQ Salad Bar Spread

DIY BBQ Salad Bar Spread

Build your own bowl featuring roasted sweet potatoes and earthy beets atop a bed of crisp greens. The addition of protein-packed chickpeas and juicy cherry tomatoes ensures this colorful option keeps you satisfied.

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6. Creamy Seafood Pasta Salad

Creamy Seafood Pasta Salad

Tender shell pasta gets coated in a creamy, lemon-infused dressing seasoned with a kick of Old Bay. It offers a cool, savory contrast to hot grilled meats and brings coastal flair to your table.

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7. Traditional Amish Macaroni Salad

Traditional Amish Macaroni Salad

Experience the unique sweet and tangy profile of this traditional side, featuring a dressing made with yellow mustard and vinegar. The creamy texture clings to every elbow noodle for a nostalgic bite.

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8. Loaded Beef Taco Salad

Loaded Beef Taco Salad

Seasoned ground beef and hearty black beans turn this bowl of crisp romaine into a filling main or side dish. You will enjoy the bold Tex-Mex spices that make this recipe a crowd-pleaser at any cookout.

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9. Herby Potato and White Bean Salad

Herby Potato and White Bean Salad

Trade the mayonnaise for crispy, pan-fried red potatoes and tender white beans in this texturally exciting dish. A simple garlic seasoning ties the ingredients together for a warm, savory potato salad alternative.

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10. Buffalo Ranch Pasta Salad

Buffalo Ranch Pasta Salad

Combine the heat of buffalo sauce with the cooling herbs of ranch dressing in this spirited pasta dish. Thinly sliced celery adds a necessary crunch that mimics your favorite wing night platter.

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11. Steak and Quinoa Salad with Avocado-Lime Ranch

Steak and Quinoa Salad with Avocado-Lime Ranch

Marinated steak strips provide a savory punch to this protein-rich bowl of fluffy quinoa. Drizzle everything with a creamy avocado-lime ranch to tie the smoky and citrusy flavors together.

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12. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted red and gold beets offer an earthy sweetness that pairs impeccably with tangy crumbled goat cheese. Chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch to the bed of peppery arugula and tender greens.

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13. Crunchy Asian Chopped Chicken Salad

Crunchy Asian Chopped Chicken Salad

Shredded green and red cabbage provide a sturdy, crunchy base that holds up well against the savory dressing. Juicy, pan-seared chicken thighs make this colorful bowl hearty enough for a complete meal.

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14. Southwest Chicken Caesar Salad

Southwest Chicken Caesar Salad

Reinvent a classic by spiking creamy Caesar dressing with Sriracha, lime juice, and warm spices like cumin. This fusion dish brings a zesty, smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken.

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15. Cheesy Pizza Pasta Salad

Cheesy Pizza Pasta Salad

Cubes of fresh mozzarella and slices of pepperoni bring your favorite pizzeria flavors to a chilled pasta dish. Tri-color spirals and crunchy green peppers make this a fun, vibrant option for all ages.

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