The Role of Sides in a Balanced BBQ Meal

Prepared BBQ side dishes including mac and cheese being assembled by staff at John Mull’s Road Kill Grill in Las Vegas

The Role of Sides in a Balanced BBQ Meal at John Mull’s Road Kill Grill

At John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill, we believe a great BBQ meal isn’t just about the meat—it’s about the whole plate. While our slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and BBQ chicken get much of the spotlight, it’s the side dishes that bring balance, flavor, and visual appeal to every meal we serve.

From crisp coleslaw to creamy mac and cheese, our sides are crafted to complement the bold, smoky flavors of our BBQ. Whether you’re sitting down for a picnic-style lunch on our outdoor patio located here in Las Vegas called Road Kill Grill. Or catering for a large event, our sides help round out the meal with rich textures, vibrant colors, and satisfying tastes.

Hot or cold, simple or indulgent—our side options are designed to satisfy every palate and complete the perfect BBQ experience.


How to Choose the Perfect Side Dishes for Your BBQ Plate

At John Mull’s, we’ve mastered the art of pairing sides with meats that have been smoked low and slow for up to 16 hours. If you’re building your own BBQ plate or planning an event with our catering team, here are some tips to help you select the ideal accompaniments:

  1. Match Flavors: Classic options like potato salad, baked beans, and cornbread are BBQ staples for a reason—they pair beautifully with smoked meats. Want to get creative? Add a fresh fruit salad or roasted veggie medley to elevate your plate.
  2. Consider Texture: Pair tender ribs or pulled pork with crunchy coleslaw or a crisp green salad to create a satisfying contrast.
  3. Play with Color: A colorful plate is an inviting plate. Add a pop of green with our garden salad, or brighten things up with vibrant red cabbage slaw or grilled sweet corn.

At John Mull’s Road Kill Grill, every side dish is prepared with the same care and quality as our meats—because the perfect BBQ isn’t just about what’s on the grill, it’s about everything on your plate.


The Benefits of Fresh, Local Vegetables in Every Bite

We’re proud to source fresh, local produce whenever possible. Why? Because we care about flavor, nutrition, and our Las Vegas community.

Fresh vegetables like grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and corn on the cob aren’t just healthy—they add depth to every BBQ plate. By using locally grown ingredients, we’re able to serve up sides that are more flavorful, more nutritious, and better for the environment. It’s all part of our commitment to sustainability and quality.

Next time you stop by John Mull’s, try pairing your brisket with our seasonal veggie sides—you’ll taste the difference.


Creative Ways to Include Grains and Legumes in Your BBQ Meal

We love a hearty BBQ plate, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be healthy too. Our sides include grains and legumes that pack protein, fiber, and delicious texture into every bite.

Here are a few examples of how we bring balance to our BBQ:

  • BBQ black bean salad – smoky, tangy, and full of flavor
  • Southwest quinoa salad – a colorful, protein-rich option
  • Grain-stuffed peppers – available for catering orders
  • Mac & cheese with a twist – hearty, cheesy, and filling

Whether you’re dining in or ordering for a large group, our diverse side options make it easy to customize your plate with both indulgent comfort food and lighter, nutrient-dense choices.


Q&A: BBQ Sides at John Mull’s

Q: What sides do you serve with BBQ meals at John Mull’s Road Kill Grill?
A: We offer a variety of sides including coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, mac & cheese, green salads, and seasonal vegetables—fresh, local, and made daily.

Q: Why are side dishes so important?
A: Sides add flavor, texture, and balance to every plate. They’re not just filler—they’re essential to creating the full BBQ experience.

Q: How do I create a balanced BBQ plate?
A: Pair rich, smoky meats with fresh or tangy sides for contrast. Try combining crunchy, creamy, and savory elements for the perfect bite.


Complete Your Plate with John Mull’s Signature Sides

At John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill, we take pride in every element of your meal—from pasture to plate. Our side dishes reflect the same dedication to tradition, freshness, and community as our meats. Whether you’re picking up takeout, enjoying a picnic under our shaded patio, or planning a catered event, you can count on us for balanced, flavorful, and satisfying BBQ meals—right down to the sides.

Ready to build your perfect plate?
Explore our BBQ menu
Order catering for your next event


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