Side dishes can make or break a meal, and these 17 options are so satisfying, you might not even miss the meat. Whether you’re looking for something hearty or light, these sides offer a variety of flavors and textures that stand on their own. Each one is easy to prepare and adds something special to your plate. Perfect for those times when you want a full, satisfying meal without the main course overshadowing the sides.
Shrimp Asparagus Risotto
Shrimp Asparagus Risotto combines tender shrimp, fresh asparagus, and creamy risotto for a delicious meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish is rich and satisfying, with a delicate balance of seafood and vegetable flavors. The shrimp adds a subtle sweetness, while the asparagus brings a slight crunch. Perfect for a hearty side that feels like a main course.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Asparagus Risotto
Screaming Skillet Green Beans
Screaming Skillet Green Beans are a quick, spicy side ready in 15 minutes. These green beans are sautéed with garlic and red pepper flakes for a bold, fiery kick. The heat is balanced by the freshness of the green beans, making this dish both vibrant and flavorful. Ideal for those who like their veggies with a punch.
Get the Recipe: Screaming Skillet Green Beans
Worcestershire Green Beans
Worcestershire Green Beans offer a savory twist on a classic vegetable side, ready in 20 minutes. The beans are cooked to tender perfection, then tossed in Worcestershire sauce for a deep, umami flavor. The sauce adds a slightly tangy, savory taste that elevates the simplicity of green beans. A quick and flavorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Worcestershire Green Beans
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta is a 30-minute side dish that blends crispy sprouts with crunchy almonds and creamy feta. The Brussels sprouts are roasted to bring out their natural sweetness, while the almonds add texture and the feta provides a tangy contrast. This dish is both hearty and light, perfect for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta
Loaded Cauliflower Mash
Loaded Cauliflower Mash is a rich, creamy side ready in 25 minutes, featuring cauliflower, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. The cauliflower is mashed until smooth and mixed with cheese and bacon, creating a dish that’s as indulgent as it is healthy. It tastes like comfort food with a fraction of the carbs. A satisfying alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cauliflower Mash
Basic Polenta
Basic Polenta is a simple and versatile side dish, taking about 30 minutes to prepare. Made from cornmeal, it has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. This dish pairs well with a variety of toppings or sauces, making it a great base for other flavors. Ideal for adding warmth and comfort to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Basic Polenta
Citrus Asparagus Couscous
Citrus Asparagus Couscous is a light, refreshing side dish ready in 20 minutes. The couscous is fluffy and infused with citrus, while the asparagus adds a crisp, green bite. This dish has a bright, tangy flavor that complements the tender asparagus perfectly. It’s a fresh and easy way to add some zing to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables is a hearty, rustic side dish that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are roasted until caramelized and tender. The vegetables develop a deep, earthy sweetness as they cook. Perfect for a warming and nutritious addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts is a 35-minute dish that combines the earthiness of Brussels sprouts with the sweet and tangy flavor of balsamic glaze. The sprouts are roasted until tender and then drizzled with the glaze for a rich, balanced taste. This side is both savory and slightly sweet, making it a flavorful complement to any main.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes are a classic, comforting side dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. Made with russet potatoes and butter, they have a smooth, fluffy texture and a rich, buttery taste. These potatoes are the perfect side for any meal, offering a warm and satisfying bite with every forkful. An essential part of any comfort food lineup.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions
Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions is a flavorful side ready in 25 minutes. Fresh green beans are sautéed with garlic and topped with crispy fried onions, creating a dish that’s both crunchy and aromatic. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the onions provide a satisfying crunch. A tasty and easy side that pairs well with many main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions
Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Roasted Cabbage Steaks are a simple yet hearty side dish that takes about 40 minutes to make. Thick slices of cabbage are roasted until caramelized, with crispy edges and a tender center. The natural sweetness of the cabbage shines through, making this dish both flavorful and satisfying. Great for adding some hearty greens to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli
Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli is a savory and sweet pasta dish that takes about 1 hour to prepare. The ravioli is filled with a smooth butternut squash puree, offering a rich, slightly sweet flavor. Paired with a simple sauce, this dish is both comforting and indulgent. A perfect choice when you want a homemade, meatless main course.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli
Brioche Rolls
Brioche Rolls are soft, buttery bread rolls that take about 3 hours to make, including rising time. These rolls are light and fluffy with a slightly sweet taste, making them perfect for any meal. The rich flavor comes from the butter and eggs in the dough, creating a tender crumb. Ideal for serving alongside your favorite dishes or on their own.
Get the Recipe: Brioche Rolls
Honey Garlic Carrots
Honey Garlic Carrots is a sweet and savory side dish ready in 25 minutes. Carrots are glazed with a mix of honey and garlic, creating a balance of sweetness and depth of flavor. The carrots are cooked until tender but still retain a slight crunch. A simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with a variety of mains.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Carrots
Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots
Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots is a 30-minute dish where carrots are roasted and glazed with honey for a sweet and caramelized flavor. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the honey adds a rich, glossy finish. These carrots are tender with a slight crunch, making them a delightful side dish. Perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots
Easy Oven Asparagus
Easy Oven Asparagus is a quick, 15-minute side dish that highlights the natural flavor of fresh asparagus. The asparagus is roasted until tender with crispy tips, creating a dish that’s both simple and delicious. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt are all it needs. Perfect for when you need a healthy and tasty side in no time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Oven Asparagus