Summer’s on the horizon, and to me that means one thing: Rib season is near! I’m a big fan of prepping ribs — baby back or otherwise — in an oven or electric pressure cooker and finishing them on the grill. Since the prep is hands-off, it leaves me with plenty of time to make tasty side dishes that get me almost as excited for rib season as the ribs themselves. Here are some of my favorite side dishes for barbecue ribs, from baked beans to corn on the cob.
Baked Beans and Bean Salads
Baked beans are a classic rib side because their tangy tomato base complements most rib rubs. Don’t skip on cold bean and vegetables salads either, as they can be prepped and chilled ahead, much like the ribs themselves.
Pasta Salads and Macaroni
When we lived in the South, we often chose our favorite BBQ places based on their macaroni and cheese alone. Pasta is an easy and excellent side choice for ribs.
Potato Salads
Potato salad is the ultimate summer side, and a favorite paired with meaty, sticky ribs. The new potato salad below is one of our family favorites.
Greens, Corn, and Other Vegetable Sides
Summer vegetables are a great go-to if you need a fast-cooking side to go with your ribs. We rely heavily on cooked corn and collard greens, but thick sliced summer tomatoes also fit the bill.
