Well be honest: Barbecues aren't exactly great for your waistline. You might indulge a little more than you normally would, and thats okay. Thats typically what a holiday is all about. As long as youre filling your plate with protein and some vegetables (we have you covered with plenty of options listed down below), you dont have to feel entirely guilty about splurging on some dessert at the end of the night.
Thats where the grill comes in: there's nothing better than a juicy hamburger seared to perfection. Or a hot dog with the right amount of smoky char. Sparks will fly right off your taste buds after you taste these simple-to-make barbecue staples. Here, 12 recipes that are easy, delicious, and the best thing you can serve up when the day is long, the night is warm, and the weekend feels endless.
1. GRILLED STEAK KEBABS
Who doesnt love meat on a stick? These kebabs with sweet potato fries are the prefect mix of savory and sweet. Its a protein-packed meal thats super easy to make, too-just throw your ingredients into one pan and grill em up. If you want to kick the flavor up a notch with a smoky char, invest in a heavier-duty cast iron grill pan (like this one ) to sear your meats and vegetables at a higher temperature. Watch the video above to see how to make it.
Related: 7 Ways to Cook a Better Steak
11. CHEDDAR BACON POTATO WEDGES
Potatoes? Yes. Potatoes covered in cheese and bacon? Hell yes. These thick cut loaded potato wedges are the best addition to any piece of grilled meat and taste just as good as your favorite restaurant style wedges. The best part? Theyre less than 200 calories per serving. Give them just 20 minutes in the oven and youll have crispy, yet gooey, perfection. ( Find the full recipe here. )
Related: 25 Things You Must Wrap In Bacon
12. ANGRY SHRIMP COCKTAIL
Spending your weekend by the water? This appetizer is calling your name. Forget the watery store-bought shrimp cocktail ring that youre used to. In fact, your taste buds wont know what hit em after you serve up this garlicky angry shrimp cocktail. Instead of steaming the shrimp, youll sear it until its crispy. The dip is just the right combination of spicy and sweet, with a hint of lemon. ( Find the full recipe here. )
13. FRESH SUMMER SALAD
A pile of meat and potatoes is great-but if youre looking for some lighter fare, opt for a side of this bright summer salad. With its base of tomatoes, this salad packs a flavorful punch-no droopy iceberg lettuce necessary. Youll use extra virgin olive oil for some healthy fat, lemon juice and vinegar for tang, and basil for freshness and color. This salad pairs great with fish, but wed argue that it tastes great with just about anything youre going to eat outdoors. ( Find the full recipe here. )
14. INSTANT POT PULLED PORK
Who doesnt want to take a big bite into a juicy, tender pulled pork sandwich to go with a few beers at an outdoor barbecue? This easy recipe from is delicious with a BBQ sauce and essential sides-cornbread, corn on the cob, potato salad-they all complement the flavors.
15. CHEDDAR STUFFED SWEET POTATO BBQ TURKEY MEATLOAF
This cheesy, hearty meatloaf recipe from Ambitious Kitchen tastes like real comfort food but is actually pretty good for you and will be a healthy dish to serve over July 4th weekend or a barbecue in the summer. Its ready in about an hour and each serving is under 300 calories. (So you can totally go ahead and grab another drink!)
16. BARBECUE CAULIFLOWER TACOS
If youre veggie-eater at a summer barbecue, it might be tough, as theres bound to be burgers, hot dogs, and ribs everywhere. The solution? These cauliflower tacos from , which still give you that fun party food feel and tons of flavor, thanks to BBQ sauce, avocado, and herbs.
Related: Sear Cauliflower T-Bone Steaks
17. COCONUT AND LIME CHICKEN SKEWERS
Anything on a skewer is a crowd pleaser at a summer barbecue. And these chicken, coconut, and lime bites from do not disappoint. You can eat them as in on a skewer or you can toss them into a tortilla with a bed of coconut rice for a bit more substance. Add spices and salsa for fun toppings and a flavor boost.
Related: Skewer the Fat
18. FRIED MASHED POTATO BALLS WITH BBQ CHILI
Let the drooling begin-these fried potato balls with chili stuffing from are perfect for your next summer gathering or game night with the guys. They have lots of spice from cumin, cayenne, and chili powder, and you can either use your favorite BBQ sauce or whip up your own.
Related: Whip Up Saffron Mashed Potatoes
19. CILANTRO LIME POTATO SALAD
Theres no better side to go with your charred dog or juicy burger than potato salad, and this slimmed-down version of the classic from is packed with nutrition and flavor. Theres a nice zest from the lime and cilantro to make it feel light and refreshing, and it can even become whole30 approved by omitting the coconut sugar.
20. SOUTHWEST AVOCADO QUINOA CORN SALAD
Corn is right in season for summer and if youre not into taking a bite on the cob (it can get stuck in your teeth!) indulge in its freshness in this savory quinoa salad that comes with corn and avocado. A great recipe by , its easy to make a big batch at once and bring to your next potluck or outdoor barbecue.
Related: Chili-Lime Grilled Corn
21. GRILLED RED, WHITE, AND BLUE SKEWERS
The perfect patriotic side dish, these potatoes with ranch dressing from are full of fiber to keep you satiated and are easy to pop right into your mouth. Whats more, theyre whole30 approved, so even guests who are on a restrictive diet can partake in the fun. Pair with burgers or brauts and youre set.
Related : How to Make These Juicy Pork Skewers With Balsamic Herb Sauce
22. GRILLED FRUIT SALAD
You probably have a surplus of grilled veggies and meats at your potluck, but dont forget dessert! Grilled fruit kebobs are great for giving you that sweet end to the meal but not weighing you down, as lets say, a pie or ice cream sundae might do. These fruity kebobs from are yes, simple, and super delicious. Have fun with melon, pineapple, and stone fruit for a good variety.
Related: These Are the Healthiest Fruits You Should Be Eating