20 Ridiculously Delicious Father’s Day BBQ Sides Kids Can Help Assemble

We all know Father’s Day is about celebrating Dad, and what better way to do that than with a delicious BBQ?

But let’s be honest, sometimes prepping all that food can be a bit overwhelming. That’s where the kids come in!

I’ve put together a list of 20 ridiculously delicious BBQ sides that are not only crowd-pleasers but also super easy for kids to help assemble.

Imagine Dad’s face when he sees the whole family pitching in to create a feast just for him. It’s about more than just the food; it’s about the memories you’re making together.

Here are three quick and easy BBQ side dishes that kids can help with:

• Watermelon Skewers: Fun to make and refreshing.
• Kid-Friendly Corn Salad: Sweet, tangy, and easy to mix.
• “Ants on a Log” with a Twist: A healthy and playful snack.

Now, let’s get into the full list of 20 BBQ side dishes that will make this Father’s Day a family affair!

1. Watermelon Skewers

These refreshing skewers are a guaranteed hit on a hot Father’s Day. I love how simple they are: just cube watermelon, and thread them onto skewers. For an extra touch, older kids can help add blueberries, chunks of feta cheese, or mint leaves between the watermelon pieces. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze (adults only!) adds a gourmet touch that Dad will love.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a light, refreshing, and fun side that’s perfect for a BBQ.
• Key flavors: Sweet and refreshing.
• Dad type: The dad who loves fresh and fruity flavors.
• Special equipment: Skewers.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who loves fruity flavors

2. Kid-Friendly Corn Salad

This corn salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that’s easy for kids to help create. I like to combine cooked corn kernels (fresh or canned), diced red bell pepper, chopped cucumber, and a simple dressing of mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder. Kids can help with measuring and mixing the ingredients.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a sweet and savory side that complements BBQ dishes perfectly.
• Key flavors: Sweet and tangy.
• Dad type: The dad who enjoys fresh and vibrant flavors.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who enjoys fresh flavors

3. “Ants on a Log” with a Twist

This classic snack gets a BBQ makeover! I swap out the traditional celery for sweet bell pepper strips and fill them with a mixture of cream cheese and chives. Then, I let the kids arrange “ants” (raisins or small pieces of black olive) on top. It’s a fun, healthy, and easy side that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a playful and healthy snack that adds a touch of fun to the BBQ spread.
• Key flavors: Creamy and slightly sweet.
• Dad type: The dad who appreciates a bit of fun and healthy options.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 4
• Best for: The Dad who likes healthy snacks

4. Rainbow Fruit Salad

This vibrant salad is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. I love having kids help me wash and cut up their favorite fruits – strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, melon, and grapes all work beautifully. Then, we toss it all together with a light dressing of honey and lime juice. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a healthy addition to any BBQ.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a refreshing, colorful, and healthy side dish that balances out the richness of BBQ.
• Key flavors: Sweet and tangy.
• Dad type: The health-conscious dad, the dad with a sweet tooth.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 8
• Best for: The Dad who is health-conscious

5. Confetti Coleslaw

This coleslaw is a fun twist on a classic, and kids can easily help with the “confetti” part! I combine shredded cabbage with finely chopped carrots, red onion, and bell peppers in various colors. The dressing is a simple mix of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. The kids love mixing all the colorful veggies together!

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a crunchy, creamy, and colorful side dish that’s a staple at any BBQ.
• Key flavors: Sweet and tangy.
• Dad type: The classic dad, the dad who loves traditional BBQ sides.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 8
• Best for: The Dad who loves classic BBQ

6. Kid-Friendly Potato Salad

Potato salad is a BBQ staple, and this recipe is simplified so kids can join in. I boil diced potatoes until tender, then let them cool. Meanwhile, kids can help mash hard-boiled eggs and mix them with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and a little mustard. We then gently fold the potatoes into the mixture.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a creamy, comforting, and classic BBQ side dish that everyone loves.
• Key flavors: Savory and creamy
• Dad type: The dad who loves classic comfort food.
• Special equipment: Large pot.
• Difficulty level: Beginner
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Serving Size: 8
• Best for: The Dad who loves comfort food

7. Cucumber and Tomato Salad

This refreshing salad is light, healthy, and easy for kids to assemble. I have them help me chop cucumbers and tomatoes, then we toss them with a simple dressing of olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs like dill or basil. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a salty tang that’s irresistible.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a light and refreshing counterpoint to heavier BBQ dishes.
• Key flavors: Fresh and tangy.
• Dad type: The health-conscious dad, the dad who loves fresh flavors.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who likes light flavors

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Flavored Butters

Grilled corn on the cob is a BBQ classic, and kids can get creative with the flavored butters! I grill the corn, and while it’s cooking, we mix softened butter with ingredients like honey and cinnamon, chili powder and lime, or garlic and herbs. Kids can help stir the butter mixtures and spread them on the corn before serving.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a fun and interactive side dish that adds flavor to a BBQ staple.
• Key flavors: Sweet or savory, depending on the butter.
• Dad type: The dad who loves grilled food, the dad who likes to experiment with flavors.
• Special equipment: Grill.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who loves corn

9. Caprese Skewers

These colorful skewers are simple, elegant, and fun to make. Kids can help thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and sophistication.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a light, fresh, and visually appealing side dish.
• Key flavors: Fresh and tangy.
• Dad type: The dad who appreciates simple elegance, the dad who loves Italian flavors.
• Special equipment: Skewers.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who loves Italian flavors

10. Easy Baked Beans

Baked beans are a BBQ essential, and this recipe is simplified for kid-friendly assembly. I start with canned baked beans and let the kids help me stir in ingredients like brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, and chopped bacon. Then, we bake it all together until bubbly and delicious.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a classic, hearty, and comforting BBQ side dish.
• Key flavors: Sweet and savory.
• Dad type: The dad who loves classic comfort food.
• Special equipment: Baking dish.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Serving Size: 8
• Best for: The Dad who loves baked beans

11. Garlic Bread Twists

Upgrade classic garlic bread with this fun twist! I use pre-made breadstick dough and let the kids help me twist it into fun shapes. Then, we brush them with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese before baking.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a warm, savory, and interactive side dish that’s always a hit.
• Key flavors: Garlicky and cheesy.
• Dad type: The dad who loves bread, the dad who loves Italian food.
• Special equipment: Baking sheet.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who loves garlic bread

12. Macaroni Salad

This creamy and classic macaroni salad is a BBQ staple, and kids can easily help with many of the steps. I cook the macaroni, and while it cools, kids can help chop celery, onions, and hard-boiled eggs. Then, we mix everything together with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of sweetness.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a cool, creamy, and comforting side dish that’s a BBQ classic.
• Key flavors: Creamy and tangy.
• Dad type: The dad who loves classic comfort food.
• Special equipment: Large pot.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Serving Size: 8
• Best for: The Dad who loves pasta salad

13. Broccoli Salad

This crunchy and refreshing salad is a healthy addition to any BBQ. I blanch broccoli florets, and then kids can help me toss them with red onion, bacon bits, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. The dressing is a simple mix of mayonnaise and vinegar.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet salad that adds a healthy touch to the BBQ spread.
• Key flavors: Savory and slightly sweet.
• Dad type: The health-conscious dad, the dad who loves crunchy textures.
• Special equipment: Large pot.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who likes veggies

14. Sweet Potato Fries

These baked sweet potato fries are a healthier and tastier alternative to traditional fries. I slice the sweet potatoes into fries, and then kids can help me toss them with olive oil and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cumin. We then bake them until crispy and delicious.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a slightly sweet and savory side dish that’s a crowd-pleaser and a healthier alternative to regular fries.
• Key flavors: Sweet and savory.
• Dad type: The dad who loves fries, the health-conscious dad.
• Special equipment: Baking sheet.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who loves fries

15. Pineapple Salsa

This sweet and savory salsa is a refreshing and flavorful addition to any BBQ. Kids can help me chop pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Then, we mix it all together with lime juice and a pinch of salt. It’s perfect as a side dish or a topping for grilled meats.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a vibrant, sweet, and spicy salsa that adds a tropical twist to the BBQ.
• Key flavors: Sweet and savory.
• Dad type: The dad who loves bold flavors, the dad who loves tropical fruit.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who loves salsa

16. Quinoa Salad

This healthy and protein-packed salad is a great option for a lighter BBQ side. I cook the quinoa, and while it cools, kids can help me chop vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. We then toss everything together with a lemon-herb dressing.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a light, healthy, and flavorful salad that’s a great alternative to heavier sides.
• Key flavors: Fresh and light.
• Dad type: The health-conscious dad.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who is health conscious

17. Jalapeno Popper Dip

This creamy and cheesy dip is a fun and indulgent side dish that’s perfect for a BBQ. I cook the jalapeños and cream cheese, and then kids can help me stir in shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits. We then bake it until bubbly and serve it with tortilla chips or crackers.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a spicy, cheesy, and flavorful dip that’s perfect for sharing.
• Key flavors: Spicy and cheesy.
• Dad type: The dad who loves spicy food.
• Special equipment: Baking dish.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Serving Size: 8
• Best for: The Dad who loves spicy food

18. Avocado Corn Salad

This creamy and flavorful salad is a great way to use fresh summer produce. Kids can help me cut corn off the cob and dice avocado. We then mix it with red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of mayonnaise or sour cream.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a creamy, fresh, and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.
• Key flavors: Creamy and fresh.
• Dad type: The dad who loves fresh flavors.
• Special equipment: None.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who loves avocados

19. Grilled Vegetable Skewers

These colorful skewers are a fun and healthy way to serve vegetables at a BBQ. Kids can help me wash and chop their favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. We then thread them onto skewers and grill them until tender-crisp.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a healthy, flavorful, and visually appealing side dish.
• Key flavors: Savory and smoky.
• Dad type: The health-conscious dad, the dad who loves grilled vegetables.
• Special equipment: Skewers, grill.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad who likes grilled veggies

20. Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

These sweet skewers are a fun and festive dessert that’s perfect for Father’s Day. Kids can help me cut strawberries and pound cake into bite-sized pieces. We then thread them onto skewers and serve them with a dollop of whipped cream.

• Why it’s perfect for Father’s Day: It’s a light, sweet, and fun dessert that’s perfect for a BBQ.
• Key flavors: Sweet and fruity.
• Dad type: The dad with a sweet tooth.
• Special equipment: Skewers.
• Difficulty level: Beginner.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving Size: 6
• Best for: The Dad with a sweet tooth

FAQ Section

Q: Can these sides be made ahead of time?

A: Yes, many of these sides can be partially or fully made ahead of time. Salads, dips, and skewers can often be prepped a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Q: How can I involve younger children in the preparation?

A: Even the youngest kids can help with tasks like washing fruits and vegetables, measuring ingredients, and stirring.

Q: What if Dad has dietary restrictions?

A: Many of these recipes can be adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions. For vegetarian options, omit the bacon or meat. For gluten-free options, ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free.

Menu Planning Tips

• Balance flavors and textures: Offer a variety of sides with different flavors and textures to complement the BBQ.
• Consider Dad’s favorites: Include Dad’s favorite side dishes.
• Make-ahead options: Choose sides that can be partially or fully prepared in advance to reduce stress on Father’s Day.

Last-Minute Options

Here are a few quick and easy BBQ side ideas for those planning late:

• Store-bought coleslaw or potato salad: Dress it up with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
• Sliced watermelon or fruit: A simple and refreshing side.
• Bagged salad with a simple dressing: Add some chopped vegetables or a sprinkle of cheese.

Conclusion

These 20 BBQ side dishes are designed to be easy and fun for kids to help assemble, making Father’s Day a true family affair. I hope this list inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and create a memorable meal for Dad.

Remember, the best meals are made with love, and involving the whole family in the cooking process is a wonderful way to show Dad how much you care.

Now it’s your turn! What are your favorite Father’s Day BBQ side dishes to make with your kids? Share your ideas in the comments below!