1. Potato Salad (But Fancy)
Not the basic prepackaged kind; I’m talking Dijon, dill, red potatoes and olive oil. When done correctly and with a twist, this side beats out the rest for spot numero one.
2. Mac and Cheese
The gooey, breadcrumb-topped kind that is crunchy at first bite and so deliciously melty by the second.
3. Elote
Grilled, messy and smothered in crema, cotija, lime and chili powder — this is how an ear of corn reaches its final form.
4. Watermelon Feta Salad
A little sweet, a little salty, a little unexpected. This upgrade elevates your classic burger, and with some mint thrown in? You have yourself a chef-grade side.
5. Cornbread
Extra points if it’s slightly sweet, has jalapeños baked in or arrives in a cast iron skillet. With honey butter or thick molasses as a pairing, this is an easy top five contender.
6. French Fries
These guys are fan favorites for reasons. Impossible to mess up and a juicy hamburger’s soulmate, it’s essential these make it to the table of sides. However, they are not doing anything outside the box, and for that reason, they’re middle of the list.
7. Corn on the Cob
Not the most exciting side dish, but one of the hardest to get wrong. Throw them on the barbie for a few minutes, and you have yourself a flavorful and reliable side that should be on every BBQ side table.
8. Pasta Salad
Cold pasta is a bold and often unappetizing choice. A pesto or Greek version? Potentially okay, but 9/10 times it’s disappointing.
9. Canned Baked Beans
They’re fine. They do the job. But they're not exactly a crowd favorite until you throw some brisket in them; even then, they’re questionable at best.
10. Classic Coleslaw
I get it, it’s tradition. But unless it’s homemade with apple cider vinegar and a lot of crunch, it’s just bland, creamy filler.
