21 Sides That Are My Reliable Life Savers Every Time

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21 Sides That Are My Reliable Life Savers Every Time

Some side dishes are more like superheroes in disguise, always coming through when needed. Whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion, these 21 trusty options never let anyone down. They complement just about anything without stealing the show, proving that sometimes the support act is just as important. Perfect for those moments when you need a reliable addition to the main dish without overthinking it.

A fresh apple cranberry salad with a bright red and green color.
Apple Cranberry Salad. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

A baking sheet with garnished parmesan crusted potatoes on it.
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Who doesn’t love a crispy potato dish? Add a sprinkle of cheese and you’ve got a side that’s hard to resist. Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are your go-to when you want something with a crunchy outside and a soft, warm inside. They’re perfect for those moments when you need a reliable side that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

Cheesecake Salad

A cheesecake salad with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in a large bowl.
Cheesecake Salad. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Ever thought salad could taste like dessert? Well, that’s exactly what you get with Cheesecake Salad. It’s a sweet treat that pairs well with any meal, offering a unique blend that surprises first-timers. For those days when a regular salad just won’t do, this dish brings joy and a dash of whimsy to the table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesecake Salad

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a savory start to your day or a protein-packed side, Egg Bites are the answer. They’re easy, customizable, and always a hit whether it’s breakfast or brunch. Loaded with flavor, they make a filling addition to any meal without weighing you down. Plus, they’re a fun way to get your protein in, with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Four twice baked potatoes in a small baking dish.
Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

When you’re craving comfort food, Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes come to the rescue. Think of them as the superhero of side dishes, complete with all the toppings that make your mouth water. They’re the epitome of cheesy goodness, making every bite better than the last. Perfect for those nights when only the most filling side will do, these potatoes deliver big on taste and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Greek Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad in a brown bowl, garnished with pita bread.
Greek Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Light, refreshing, but surprisingly filling, Greek Quinoa Salad hits all the right notes. It’s the ideal choice for hot days or when you’re aiming for a healthier meal option. This salad mixes crunch with the nutty flavor of quinoa, creating a side dish that stands out. Whether you’re having a casual lunch or a dinner party, it’s versatile enough to complement any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad

Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe

Stuffed mushrooms on a wooden cutting board.
Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Who said mushrooms had to be boring? Classic Mushroom Bourekas turn this humble ingredient into stars of the show. Wrapped in flaky pastry, these little parcels are a joy at any gathering. Ideal for when you want to offer something warm and inviting, they’re a testament to how simple ingredients can create magic.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Miss the flavors of your favorite takeout option? Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots brings that experience home. They’re a hit at parties or as a treat during game night, offering a twist on traditional tots. Loaded with flavor, they promise to be a memorable side that steals the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Best Easy and Creamy Squash Casserole

A glass baking dish filled with baked squash casserole.
Best Easy and Creamy Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

For those chilly nights when only the warmest, most comforting dishes will do, Best Easy and Creamy Squash Casserole serves up coziness in a dish. It’s like a warm hug for your stomach, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. With its creamy texture, it pairs beautifully with any meal, promising to warm you from the inside out. It’s the side that you’ll crave on those cold, sweater-weather days.
Get the Recipe: Best Easy and Creamy Squash Casserole

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Crispy Baked Zucchini served on a white plate.
Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven offers a healthier take on crispy sides without skimping on flavor. Perfect for when you’re looking to add more greens to your meal in a way that’s both flavorful and filling. These zucchini slices turn golden and crispy, proving that healthy can still be exciting. They’re the side that everyone will be reaching for, making you the hero of healthy eats.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe

Flatlay of stuffed tomatoes with 'lids' on.
Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Looking for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is colorful? Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes are the answer, bringing a burst of freshness to your plate. They’re perfect for those times when you want something light yet fulfilling. Packed with flavors, these tomatoes are a beautiful addition to any meal, proving that healthy options can be just as exciting.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe

Instant Pot Mexican Rice

Plate of Mexican rice.
Instant Pot Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Say goodbye to bland side dishes with Instant Pot Mexican Rice. It’s a flavorful companion to any Mexican inspired meal, bringing a bit of zing that’s hard to resist. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend. This rice proves that convenience doesn’t have to mean compromise on taste, making it a favorite for those hectic days.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mexican Rice

Popeyes Coleslaw

A picture of Popeyes coleslaw copycat recipe in glass bowl.
Popeyes Coleslaw. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Craving something cool and crisp? Popeyes Coleslaw brings a classic taste home, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s an excellent side for BBQs or anytime you want a bit of crunch to complement your meal. This coleslaw is the underrated hero that completes any dish, proving that sometimes, simple is best.
Get the Recipe: Popeyes Coleslaw

Ratatouille with an Italian Flair

Italian ratatouille in a glass casserole dish.
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Bring a touch of elegance to your table with Ratatouille with an Italian Flair. This dish upgrades vegetables to a whole new level, combining them in a way that’s both beautiful and delicious. It’s perfect for impressing guests or when you want to treat yourself to something special. Full of vibrant colors and flavors, it’s a showcase of how veggies can make a dish shine.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re in the mood for something cheesy and comforting, Au Gratin Potato Stacks are here to satisfy. These little towers of joy are a fantastic twist on a classic, delivering both taste and presentation. Ideal for special occasions or when you want to upgrade your dinner game. They’re proof that with just a bit of creativity, you can transform everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Marinated Tomatoes

Closeup of marinated heirloom tomatoes in a yellow and white pie dish.
Marinated Tomatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Marinated Tomatoes are a simple yet vibrant side that adds a splash of color and flavor to any meal. They’re the perfect choice when you want something light and refreshing, with a hint of something special. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just need a quick side for dinner, these tomatoes fit the bill. They remind us that sometimes, the best tastes come from the simplest of methods.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Tomatoes

Sesame Noodles

Sesame noodles on a black plate.
Sesame Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Sometimes, all you want is something quick and flavorful, and Sesame Noodles are exactly that. They’re a delicious twist on ordinary noodles, bringing together a blend of flavors that’s hard to beat. Ideal for those lazy days or when you need a side dish in a pinch. They’re the easy-going, delicious side that effortlessly complements any Asian-inspired meal.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Noodles

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Three pieces of grilled cauliflower steaks on a black plate.
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a side that’s both hearty and healthy, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks stand out. They offer a wonderful option for those looking for something different, yet filling. These “steaks” are a testament to how versatile cauliflower can be, turning a simple vegetable into the star of your meal. They’re a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to add more vegetables to their plate in an exciting way.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Chicken Miso Soup

Chicken Miso Soup with seaweed and green onion garnish in a white soup bowl.
Chicken Miso Soup. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of soup, and Chicken Miso Soup is like a gentle embrace for your soul. It’s the perfect remedy for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This soup combines flavors in a way that’s soothing and filling, making it a must-have side for any meal. It’s a comforting classic that never disappoints, promising a feeling of warmth and well-being with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Miso Soup

Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

For a colorful twist on a classic, Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes catch the eye and please the palate. They bring an unexpected splash of color to the table, alongside a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Perfect for making dining a bit more exciting, they’re a wonderful way to impress guests or treat yourself. They remind us that sometimes, going off the beaten path with your side dishes can lead to delicious surprises.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

Air Fryer Radishes

Air Fryer Radishes with parsley, salt, and pepper in a white bowl with a spoon.
Air Fryer Radishes. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

With Air Fryer Radishes, you discover a whole new way to enjoy this often-overlooked vegetable. They come out crispy and delicious, offering a lighter alternative to traditional fried sides. Perfect for when you’re craving something crispy without all the guilt. They’re the quick, easy, and healthy side that’s sure to turn heads and change minds about what an air fryer can do.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Radishes

Apple Cranberry Salad

A fresh apple cranberry salad with a bright red and green color.
Apple Cranberry Salad. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Brighten up your meal with the refreshing taste of Apple Cranberry Salad. This dish combines sweet and tart flavors in a way that’s crisp and invigorating. Ideal for those days when you need a quick, light side that still packs a flavor punch. It’s a great reminder that salads don’t have to be boring, proving that a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cranberry Salad

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