Best Burger Sides for a Complete Meal

Written by: FreshJax Team

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Time to read 5 min

There is NOTHING wrong with a burger just by itself, but burger sides are what really make it a meal. The FreshJax Grill Master is here with some unique ideas for your next cook-out

According to studies, Americans consume an average of 2.4 hamburgers per day!

Eating healthy can be difficult, especially when it comes to burgers.

Burgers are often loaded with unhealthy fats and calories, making them a less-than-ideal meal choice for those looking to stay fit and healthy.

But don’t worry! With the right sides, you can make your burger meals healthier without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Keep reading because we have compiled the best healthy burger sides that will help you create a complete meal that is both delicious and nutritious.

 
Seasoned Steak fries as a burger side

Garlic Parmesan Steak Fries

Garlic Parmesan Steak Fries are the perfect option if you're looking for a side that will add flavor to your burger. These fries are made with cut potatoes, garlic, and parmesan cheese. The result is a savory and crunchy side dish. As a bonus, these fries only require 10 minutes of active cooking time!


We totally recommend using FreshJax Salt-Free Garlic Herb for a clean alternative.

 
Sweet Potato fires with bananas and cream
FreshJax.com We know ​​it isn't a burger, but can you blame us?

Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Grilled sweet potato wedges are a great way to add extra vegetables to your healthy burger recipes without sacrificing flavor. To prepare them, slice raw sweet potatoes into wedges, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then grill until golden brown and crispy. Serve with your favorite burger for a delicious combination of flavors.


We made these ones above with FreshJax Rosy Cheeks Maple Bourbon BBQ Rub. Spoiler alert: we'd make them again.

 
Onion Rings on top of a grilled chicken sandwich
Who says burger sides can't be burger toppings? We never said ​​burger sides can't be burger toppings...

Baked Onion Rings

Onion rings are always a popular side dish with burgers, but they can be unhealthy if fried in oil. To make them healthier, try baking onion rings instead. Coat sliced onions in a mixture of egg whites and flour (or bread crumbs), then bake in the oven until golden brown and crispy.

 

Roasted Veggies

Roasted veggies are a delicious, easy way to get your daily dose of nutrition. The roasting process brings out the sweetness of the vegetables, leaving you with a side dish that adds both flavor and health benefits.

Carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, and other fresh veggies cook evenly and quickly, so in no time you can prepare an amazing vegan meal. This combination of roasted veggies and burgers makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

 
Garden salad with lettuce tomatoes and carrots

Garden Salad

Burgers and salads are matches made in heaven because it adds freshness and crunch. Try topping your salad with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, red onions, and any other vegetables you have on hand. Add some feta cheese or a vinaigrette dressing for added flavor.

 
FreshJax Rosy Cheeks Maple Bourbon BBQ Rub next to a bowl of baked beans
FreshJax​​.com

Baked Beans

Baked beans are an incredibly versatile and nourishing meal. They can be added to salads, and sandwiches or served as a side dish. For a healthier option, try baking them with olive oil instead of butter or lard for the perfect combination of comfort food and nutrition.

Not only do baked beans add extra protein and fiber to your meal, their classic flavor pairs especially well with hamburgers, making them a great choice when you want something light but still satisfying. Baked beans are easy to make and can quickly turn any meal into an exciting and delicious experience.

 
Fruit on a Kabob skewer

Grilled Fruit Kabobs

Grilled fruit kabobs are a great way to combine the flavors of the summer with a healthy side dish. They look beautiful when displayed on the table and only require a few simple ingredients. Whether you opt for seasonal favorites such as pineapple, mango, and peaches or mix it up with an assortment of other fresh fruits, grilling these fruits creates a unique contrast in textures and flavors.

The caramelized outside provides just the right amount of crunch, while the inside stays sweet and juicy. Serve them warm off the grill with some homemade ice cream or chilled whipped cream to make your burger meal extra special!


Little tip: FreshJax Maple Cinnamon topping is oh so tasty on fruit.

 
Pasta salad with bowtie pasta pesto and tomatoes

Pasta Salad

Making a pasta salad for dinner is the perfect way to combine healthy ingredients that the whole family will love. With the entire meal in one bowl, this hearty dish is sure to satisfy without too much effort. Aside from the pasta, try adding fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and bell peppers to give your salad some extra flavor and crunch.

Adding grilled chicken or shrimp provides a protein boost, while a light vinaigrette dressing is a tasty way to finish off your creation. You can make this dish your own by adding whichever vegetables and proteins you choose - go ahead and get creative with it!

 
Pickled cucumbers and tomatoes in glass jars

Pickled Veggies

Pickled vegetables can also be used in salads and sandwiches, making them a versatile way to add variety to your meal. Even those who don't tend to like the taste of plain veggies can be swayed by the sweet and tart combination of pickling ingredients.

Furthermore, the fermentation process helps preserve the vegetables, making the dish last a bit longer. Plus you have complete control over the ingredients and flavors, so you can make them as mild or as strong as you'd like. It's an ideal way to put some pizazz into any burger meal.


Curious about Pickled... anything? Check out our friends over at Olive My Pickle. They are a local Jacksonville company that knows a thing or two about it!

 
FreshJax Grill Master Seasoning next to grilled zuchinni
FreshJax.com​​

Zucchini Fries

Zucchini fries are a delicious, health-conscious alternative to traditional French fry recipes. These veggie fries offer the same satisfying crunch with a fraction of the fat and calories!

Plus, they are easy to make and can be adapted to whatever spices and burger seasonings you'd like. All you need is some zucchini sliced into strips, breadcrumbs, and an oven. Toss in your favorite flavors and bake until crispy for a perfect side dish that will leave you feeling healthy and satisfied.

Serve them up with ketchup or a special sauce for an added bit of flavor that's sure to kick your meal up a notch!

 

Pick the Perfect Burger Sides for Your Delicious Meal

In conclusion, a healthy burger meal should include burger sides like fresh vegetables, a source of whole grains, and some kind of sauce or organic spices for added flavor. For an extra indulgent treat, top the burger with cheese and serve with fries or onion rings on the side. With these sides to accompany your burgers, you can create a complete meal that is both delicious and nutritious! Bon appetite!

If you're interested in experimenting with the flavor of your burger, check out our organic seasoning blends to become the ultimate grill master!

DID WE "INSPIRE" YOU?

Are you getting hungry just thinking about these tasty burger sides?

Were there any burger sides we missed?

Were there any that were just too weird?

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