Top 3 Halal Side Dishes for Your Next BBQ
When it comes to hosting a cookout, the main dishes like burgers and steaks often steal the spotlight. But the sides are just as important, adding flavor, texture, and variety to your meal. Whether you’re grilling up a feast for family or friends, these 3 amazing halal cookout sides will perfectly complement your main courses. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these dishes will have everyone coming back for seconds!
1. Grilled Corn with Spicy Garlic Butter
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Grill the corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and has a nice char, about 10-12 minutes.
- Apply the garlic butter: Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and immediately brush it with the spicy garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve: Plate the corn with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. This smoky, spicy corn is sure to be a hit at your next halal cookout!
2. Crispy Potato Wedges with Za’atar
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, cut into wedges
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp za’atar seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
- Tahini sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, za’atar, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
- Bake the wedges: Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the wedges from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve with a side of tahini sauce for a Middle Eastern twist. These crispy, flavorful wedges are the perfect side to any halal barbecue.
3. Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or mint)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the cucumbers: Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. If you prefer a less watery salad, sprinkle a little salt on the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain the excess water.
- Mix the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh dill (or mint), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and chill: Pour the yogurt dressing over the cucumbers and gently toss to coat. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve: This cool, creamy cucumber and yogurt salad is a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats. It’s light, tangy, and perfect for a summer halal cookout.
