A braai is a cherished South African tradition that offers a fast, pleasurable, and uncomplicated way of spending time with loved ones while cooking a variety of meats over hot flames. No braai is complete without a diverse assortment of salads, including bean, potato, coleslaw, and chakalaka varieties.
Despite some salads being beloved favourites, coming up with fresh and exciting ideas can be challenging. Serving a range of salads alongside meat not only adds freshness and inclusivity to the meal but also provides light, refreshing, and nutritious sides that complement braai meat perfectly.
My partner and I love to braai, and because we love food, it’s one of the things that we bond over when we are relaxed and looking forward to putting a great meal together.
This is the reason why we almost choose self catering accommodation when we are travelling, so that we are able to cook the meals we want – which 90% of the time involves braaivleis.
But what is a great braai without a delicious salad to compliment it?
Why Braai Salads are a must for any Braai?
Braai salads and meat are a match made in heaven, like being on a picnic with your lover on a Sunday afternoon (just kidding!). For me, a salad is a must for a braai, to balance all that meat and make the braai a bit healthy, and give it some colour.
Can you imagine attending a braai with only one type of meat and one salad or only salads and no meat at all? You would either regret not bringing your dish or wish you had offered to bring something. Salads, depending on their type, bring a fresh, crunchy, and textured element that complements braai meat perfectly.
Braai Salads That are Simple and Quick
Chakalaka
We love chakalaka, and my person makes the best one! The best thing about chakalaka is its bold and delicious flavors. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices creates a savory and spicy relish that is both satisfying and versatile.
Chakalaka can be served as a side dish or condiment, and its ability to complement a range of meats and starches makes it a popular addition to any meal. The dish’s origin in South Africa also adds to its allure, giving it a cultural significance that makes it a unique and special culinary experience.
Overall, chakalaka’s delectable taste and versatility are what make it a standout dish, loved by many.
Potato Salad
Potato salad, an iconic dish with worldwide appeal, is a medley of boiled potatoes mixed with a range of ingredients like mayonnaise, mustard, onions, celery, and pickles. You literally can create your version of potato salad, and i will still rock with your braai. You can never go wrong with this.
Three Bean Salad
If you love beans, you definitely should indulge in this salad. This protein-rich three-bean salad recipe is easy and straightforward, making it the perfect addition to your braai menu.
All you need is canned chickpeas, kidney beans, and fresh green beans, and you are good to go.
Coleslaw
Don’t just go for any coleslaw, try a seven-colour coleslaw recipe is a must-try for your braai, featuring bright, crunchy, and nutritious ingredients. If you relish a plate filled with vibrant veggies and colours, then this delectable salad will be the perfect complement to your braai.
Avo, Feta and Couscous Salad
Bid farewell to the usual green salads and welcome the fresh and summery grain salads. Prepare this simple and swift avocado, feta, and couscous braai salad recipe using ingredients that are probably already available in your pantry. This light and revitalizing salad is ideal to serve as a side dish at your braai.
