A festive braai is as much about what surrounds the fire as what lands on it. While the meat often takes centre stage, it is the side dishes that bring balance, colour and that unmistakable South African flair. The best braai sides are relaxed, unfussy and full of flavour, designed to handle the heat of summer without wilting or weighing anyone down. With fresh ingredients and minimal prep, these crowd-pleasing dishes keep the focus on good company and easy entertaining.
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Zesty lemon and herb potato salad
Potato salad is a braai classic, but this lighter version feels tailor-made for warm weather. Baby potatoes are boiled until just tender, then tossed with olive oil, fresh lemon zest and plenty of chopped herbs. A small spoon of mayonnaise or yoghurt adds creaminess without heaviness, while the citrus keeps everything bright and fresh. Served slightly warm or at room temperature, it pairs effortlessly with grilled meat and fish.
Corn straight from the fire
Few things say summer like mielies on the braai. Brushed with butter, seasoned with salt and paprika, and grilled until lightly charred, they deliver smoky sweetness with very little effort. A squeeze of lime or a crumble of feta over the top adds a final flourish, making this a side that disappears as quickly as it arrives.
Tomato and onion, the braai staple
No South African braai feels complete without a bowl of tomato and onion salad on the table. Ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion and crisp cucumber are dressed simply with vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper and a small pinch of sugar. The result is crisp, refreshing and endlessly adaptable, cutting through rich meat dishes with ease.
Watermelon, feta and mint for instant refreshment
When the temperature climbs, this sweet-and-salty combination is hard to beat. Juicy watermelon chunks are tossed with feta and fresh mint, then chilled until serving. It is light, cooling and visually striking, offering a welcome contrast to smoky flavours and heavier sides.
Garlic bread done the braai way
Garlic bread is often the first thing to vanish at a braai, and for good reason. A loaf filled generously with garlic butter, wrapped in foil and toasted over medium heat becomes golden, crisp on the outside and soft in the middle. Served hot and torn apart by hand, it brings comfort and indulgence to the table.
Rainbow coleslaw with crunch
Coleslaw adds colour and texture without demanding much time. Finely shredded cabbage, carrots and peppers are combined with a tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, Dijon mustard and a touch of honey. The result is crunchy, vibrant and sturdy enough to stand up to the heat, making it ideal for outdoor feasting.
Quick couscous salad for hot days
Couscous earns its place as a summer favourite thanks to its speed and versatility. Prepared in minutes, it becomes the base for a light salad filled with olives, cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs and feta, finished with lemon juice and olive oil. It is festive without being fussy, and travels well if you are braaing away from home.
Grilled halloumi with minimal effort
Halloumi brings instant applause with almost no prep required. Thick slices brushed with olive oil are grilled until golden and slightly crisp, then finished with a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lemon. Served warm, it offers a savoury alternative that even meat lovers reach for.
A simple green salad that balances it all
Sometimes the simplest option is the most effective. A bowl of lettuce, cucumber, avocado and spring onion dressed with lemon and olive oil provides a cool, clean counterpoint to richer dishes. It is refreshing, familiar and endlessly welcome.
Festive rice salad for feeding a crowd
Rice salad is a reliable braai side that holds up well in the heat. Cooked rice is mixed with peppers, sweetcorn, raisins and parsley, then finished with either a creamy or tangy dressing. It is filling without being heavy and stretches easily to feed a table full of guests.
A successful festive braai does not rely on complicated recipes or hours in the kitchen. With fresh ingredients, bold flavours and sides that come together quickly, it is easy to keep things relaxed, delicious and celebration-ready from the first drink to the last bite.
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