Father's Day is coming up fast, and what better way to show your pops that you appreciate him than serving up some delicious side dishes on the big day?
Luckily, Father's Day falls in the middle of June every year — June 16 this year, to be exact— which means it's the perfect time to fire up the grill and spend some quality time outdoors in the beautiful almost-summer weather! And while it's a known fact that most dads love to throw down a hearty steak or burger on the grill, no Father's Day celebration would be complete without a plethora of side dishes to enjoy!
From lighter options like a tomato and burrata salad and grilled artichokes to heartier sides like dill potato salad and spicy teriyaki meatballs, check out these 20 mouthwatering side dishes to serve at any Father's Day gathering or celebration.
1. Homemade Soft Pretzels
Trade in a traditional side of biscuits or plain rolls with homemade soft pretzels!
Check out this recipe from Alton Brown.
2. Caprese Salad With Avocado
Nothing screams "summer" like a light and fresh caprese salad! Put a warm-weather twist on this classic Italian dish by adding avocado and topping with coarse sea salt. Yum!
Find a great recipe over at CafeDelites.
3. Crab Cakes With Microgreens
Crab cakes are not only rich and decadent, but they're tasty as all heck, too! Adding some microgreens on top will add an element of freshness (and flair!) to your normal, run-of-the-mill crab cakes.
Find a delicious recipe over at Spoon Fork Bacon.
4. Elote
Up your boring corn on the cob game with some Mexican street corn! Who knew adding cheese, mayo, and other goodies to grilled corn could be so delicious?
Find a tasty recipe over at The Inspired Home.
5. Fried Zucchini
Your fried zucchini consumption should not only be limited to Saturday afternoons at a sports bar. It's actually quite easy to make and enjoy at home!
Check out a tasty recipe over at Dinner, Then Dessert.
6. Grilled Sesame Chicken Wings
This spin on chicken wings will surely please any dad on Father's Day! Instead of using a traditional buffalo sauce, try tossing in a teriyaki glaze and adding sesame seeds for a little texture. Mmm!
Check out this recipe at Eat the Love.
7. Chicken and Veggie Skewers
These chicken and veggie skewers are great to throw on the grill (or when you want to eat a snack on a stick — I'm not judging).
Find an easy recipe over at Dinner at the Zoo.
8. Queso
Queso is a great appetizer to serve that appeals to literally everyone. Who doesn't love melty cheese smothered over… well, everything? Add beef and a little hot sauce for an extra kick and serve with tortilla chips!
Find a mouthwatering recipe over at Spicy Southern Kitchen.
9. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a great way to add veggies to any Father's Day menu. Sprinkle with rosemary and roast with whole garlic cloves for a side that's rich in flavor and good for you!
Check out this flavorful recipe at Carlsbad Cravings.
10. Simple Corn on the Cob With Sea Salt
You really can't go wrong with simple grilled corn on the cob with butter and coarse sea salt!
Check out this recipe for "perfect" grilled corn at Oh Sweet Basil.
11. Pea Pesto Salad
What better way to impress your dad with your culinary skills this Father's Day than with this delicious pea pesto pasta salad?
Find the recipe over at Minimalist Baker.
12. Dill Potato Salad
No backyard Father's Day BBQ would be complete without a side dish of potato salad. This recipe uses fresh dill and asparagus. Yum!
Check out the recipe over at A Salad for All Seasons.
13. Vegan Ginger and Lemon Coleslaw
Put a unique and refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw by adding lemon and ginger for an extra zing!
Check out the recipe from Tang Tongue Tales.
14. Spicy Teriyaki Meatballs
Meatballs are a great low-carb (but filling!) side dish option for any Father's Day cookout. Add peppers, scallions, and sesame seeds for an added crunch and kick.
Find out more by checking out Zena's Kitchen.
15. Olive and Artichoke Pasta Salad
Not only is this artichoke and olive pasta salad delicious, but it's also vegan!
Check out the recipe from Well Vegan.
16. Spinach Pastry Puffs
These spinach pastry puffs are the perfect substitute for any typical roll you'd serve at a big family gathering, and they add a touch finesse to any menu!
Check out the recipe over at Well Plated.
17. Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Is there anything more comforting than a big ol' bowl of creamy stovetop macaroni and cheese? Probably not.
Check out the recipe from Our Balanced Bowl.
18. Grilled Artichokes With Lemon
The best part about this summery veggie dish is that you can throw them right on the grill with burgers, steaks, chicken — literally anything!
Find out more over at Wandi's World.
19. Heirloom Tomatoe, Burrata, and Bacon Salad
Fact: Adding bacon to anything that's considered a "salad" makes that salad 10 times better.
Find out how to make it over at The Daley Plate.
20. Roasted Green Beans With Garlic and Cheese
Green beans by themselves? BORING! Green beans smothered in cheese and roasted garlic? Yes, please!
Find out more over at Keto Adapted.
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