Looking for that perfect meal to complement your barbecue in Athens, Alabama? While the main attraction might be the smoky ribs or pulled pork, let’s not forget about the sides. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, crunchy, or fresh, Athens barbecue restaurants offer a variety of delicious options to round out your meal. Let’s dive into the top picks for BBQ sides that’ll make your plate a masterpiece.
BBQ Beans Bringing That Rich, Smoky Goodness
BBQ beans are a must-have when you’re sitting down for a barbecue feast. These beans come with a depth of flavor that’s both hearty and satisfying, mixing sweet, smoky, and savory all in one bite. Slow-cooked with bits of bacon or pork, they’re an essential side to enjoy with your BBQ near me. Athens barbecue restaurants often add their twist with unique spices, making BBQ beans the perfect pairing to any smoky meat.
Whether you’re going for ribs, brisket, or pulled pork, BBQ beans bring that richness that elevates the entire plate. Their smoky flavor blends effortlessly with the juicy, tender meat, creating a balanced meal that’s hard to beat. You’ll find yourself reaching for the spoon long after the main course is finished.
Creamy Potato Salad Adding the Perfect Bite
Potato salad is a crowd favorite for a reason. The creamy texture and soft potatoes make this side a perfect contrast to the bold flavors of barbecue. Often tossed in a mayo-based dressing with mustard, pickles, or even hard-boiled eggs, this side dish offers a refreshing break from the heavy, smoky meats.
Many BBQ near me feature their unique take on this classic side, adding a twist to keep things interesting. Some might go for a tangy finish with extra mustard, while others keep it extra creamy with a little sour cream. Whichever style you prefer, a solid potato salad is the glue that holds your BBQ plate together, making it one of the best sides to grab at a barbecue restaurant.
Cole Slaw for a Crunchy, Tangy Kick
Cole slaw is the crunchy, tangy companion you didn’t know your barbecue needed. The contrast between the smoky, savory BBQ and the fresh, crisp cabbage is unbeatable. With its mix of vinegar or creamy dressings, cole slaw brings a kick that cuts through the richness of the BBQ, giving your taste buds a refreshing reset between bites.
In Athens, Alabama, barbecue restaurants often serve both vinegar-based and creamy slaw, giving diners plenty of options. The vinegar version brings more of that sharp tang, while the creamy slaw adds a bit of richness, similar to a potato salad. Either way, cole slaw is a side that brightens up any BBQ plate with its crunchy texture and zesty flavor.
Green Beans That Keep It Fresh and Flavorful
If you’re looking to keep things light, green beans are the side that brings freshness to your barbecue near me. These are no ordinary green beans—BBQ joints often cook them with a bit of bacon or seasoning, giving them a smoky, savory flavor that pairs well with barbecued meats. They’re tender yet firm, adding a wholesome balance to your meal.
When you’re working through a heavy BBQ plate, having something green and flavorful helps cut through the richness. Green beans offer that refreshing change of pace while still delivering great flavor. It’s a side dish that proves you don’t have to sacrifice freshness when you’re indulging in barbecue in Athens, Alabama.
Tasty Mac n Cheese with a Cheesy Twist
When it comes to comfort food, mac n cheese is the undisputed champion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Many barbecue restaurants take their mac n cheese to the next level by baking it with extra cheese on top, giving it that perfect, golden crust. The combination of melted cheese and soft pasta is a match made in heaven for any BBQ meal.
This indulgent side dish is a favorite at BBQ joints near me, and for a good reason. The creamy, cheesy goodness complements the smoky meat, providing a rich contrast that balances the entire meal. Whether you’re having ribs, chicken, or brisket, mac n cheese is always a great addition to your BBQ plate.
Classic Chips or BBQ Chips to Keep It Crispy
For those who like to keep things simple, chips are a fantastic option. Classic potato chips bring a satisfying crunch, while BBQ-flavored chips add an extra layer of smoky goodness to your meal. Both options are easy, crispy sides that you can enjoy alongside any BBQ dish without feeling too heavy.
In Athens, Alabama, many barbecue restaurants offer chips as a side, and it’s a convenient choice if you’re looking for something quick and tasty. Classic or BBQ-flavored chips keep things crispy and light, making them the perfect side to round out your plate without overpowering the main event.