The Best Sides for Burgers

There’s nothing more classic than a big, juicy burger with a side of fries. But let’s shake things up a little, shall we? Presenting 15 unexpected sides that pair perfectly with that burger you’re craving.

PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

GRILLED CORN WITH SPICY AIOLI

Forget butter. You’ll be sold on corn with spicy mayo for life. It’s an easy—and absolutely delicious—upgrade.

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PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

CHILLED CUCUMBER SALAD

Add something light and fresh to your plate (you know, to balance out that double cheeseburger with fries).

PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

LIGHT AND TANGY COLESLAW

Never fear: This isn’t the gloppy, flavorless mush you grew up with. Crunchy with a vinegary kick, it’s the perfect summer side.

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PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

CAULIFLOWER ‘TATER’ TOTS

Say goodbye to regular (ahem, boring) tater tots. These guys are made with our favorite vegetable and ideal for dipping. What more could you ask for?

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WHAT’S GABY COOKING

MEXICAN CORN AND QUINOA SALAD

If you’re lighting the grill for your burgers, throw some corn on the fire, too. (Thanks for the inspo, Coterie member Gaby Dalkin.)

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PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

BLT PASTA SALAD

It combines all the crunchy, savory, creamy ingredients of the classic sandwich—minus, well, the bread.

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PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

BAKED SWEET POTATO FRIES

Because sometimes you do need a side of fries (without the guilt). And did we mention there’s actually no frying involved?

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GIMME SOME OVEN

AVOCADO POTATO SALAD

Everything we love about traditional potato salad but without the greasy mayo. Instead, this flavorful side uses Greek yogurt to lighten things up. 

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PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

JALAPEÑO AVOCADO MAC AND CHEESE

Having mac and cheese and a burger may be an aggressive move but we love it. This is next-level comfort food. 

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ERIN MCDOWELL

HOMEMADE POTATO CHIPS

Fun fact: You can make chips at home without a deep fryer (or a culinary degree). Just cook them in the broiler until they’re crispy and golden. 

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DAMN DELICIOUS

CREAMY BROCCOLI SALAD

With hunks of cheese, cashews, onion, dried cranberries and the most addictive creamy dressing. 

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PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

WATERMELON FETA SKEWERS

Sweet watermelon and tangy feta cheese is the new tomato and mozzarella. Just think of it as a deconstructed salad.

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TWO PEAS AND THEIR POD

BLACK BEAN SALAD

This dreamy salad by Coterie member Maria Lichty works great as a dip, so feel free to break out a bag of tortilla chips on the side.

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HEALTHFULLY EVER AFTER

SWEET CORN, TOMATO AND ZUCCHINI GRAIN SALAD WITH PEACH-DIJON VINAIGRETTE

Coterie member Carlene Thomas made sure it takes only a few minutes to whip this beauty up and uses plenty of fresh, ripe produce. 

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PHOTO: LIZ ANDREW/STYLING: ERIN MCDOWELL

SLOW-COOKER BAKED BEANS

A classic cookout side, without any of the fuss. Throw it in the Crock-Pot, then get back to the pool.

All credit for this delicious list goes to Pure Wow. https://www.purewow.com/food/what-to-eat-with-burgers