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4 Refreshing BBQ Pairings That Actually Make the Meal Better
A good BBQ plate tends to be quite heavy. Between the grilled meat, rich sides, and a full day in the sun, a few thoughtful pairings can make a big difference! Cold, acidic, and hydrating components help the main dish stand out, cleanse the palate, and give guests a reason to keep eating without needing a full reset.
These four BBQ pairings are low-effort, high-reward additions to any summer cookout. They hold up in the heat, complement bold flavors, and leave everyone feeling better at the end of the meal.
Tomato and Red Onion Salad
Made with juicy, thick-sliced tomatoes, paper-thin red onion, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and fresh basil, this salad is a masterclass in simplicity. Served cold, it delivers exactly what grilled food often lacks: water, acidity, and bite.
Tomatoes are more than 90% water, so the dish is naturally hydrating. The vinegar and onion keep the flavor sharp. It’s one of the simplest things to make ahead—and one of the first to disappear from the table.
Check out this delicious recipe.
Cucumber-Mint Infused Water
Regular hydration is key to regulating body temperature, especially during outdoor activities. When you want something a little extra, infused water is hydration that refreshes and impresses.
Start by pouring Absopure Purified Drinking Water in a pitcher. Add cucumber slices, mint sprigs, and a squeeze of lime. Let it sit for a couple of hours in the fridge before your guests arrive. What you get is a naturally cooling drink that complements bold BBQ flavors without competing with them.
Make your own with this simple recipe.
Grilled Pineapple Slices
This pairing is the surprise favorite of summer BBQs. Pineapple holds up surprisingly well on the grill. Cut into thick rounds or spears—it needs just a few minutes per side before it starts to caramelize. The result is a slightly smoky, tender fruit that pairs well with pulled pork, ribs, or anything spicy.
Some treat it like a side, others like a dessert. Either way, it works. Pineapple has a high water content, a firm texture, and enough acidity to refresh without overwhelming the rest of the plate.
Peach Basil Mocktail
A good BBQ drink doesn’t need to be sugary or spiked. Combine ripe peaches with lemon juice, fresh basil, and cold Absopure water. Blend and strain if needed, then serve over ice. The result is a drink with enough acidity and herbal structure to pair well with grilled food.
Peaches are about 89% water and offer a naturally smooth texture. Basil brings a savory note, and lemon keeps it from becoming too sweet. Guests who want a break from soda or alcohol usually find this option a hit.
Learn how to make this mocktail.
Why These Pairings Work
At most summer BBQs, the grill takes center stage. These four additions add temperature contrast, moisture, and acidity in ways that enhance the overall meal. Each of these BBQ pairings can be made in advance, scaled for a crowd, and served without fuss. Just remember to keep plenty of Absopure on hand to help everyone stay cool, refreshed, and hydrated!
