Side dishes can be more than just a supporting act—they can take center stage. These 17 recipes are so satisfying and flavorful that you might not even miss the main course. They’re all about big flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation. Perfect for when you want a meal that’s lighter on meat but still packed with taste.

Roasted Beet, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad

This salad combines the earthy flavor of roasted beets with the sweetness of apples and the creamy tang of goat cheese. Ready in 40 minutes, the dish is light but satisfying, making it a great option on its own or alongside a meal. The walnuts add a crunch that complements the creamy goat cheese. It’s a fresh and vibrant salad with a balance of sweet, savory, and earthy notes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beet, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad

Middle Eastern Roasted Carrots

These roasted carrots, seasoned with Middle Eastern spices, bring a sweet and savory flavor with a slightly smoky undertone. Ready in 35 minutes, the carrots are tender on the inside with a crisp exterior. They pair well with a variety of main dishes or can be enjoyed on their own. The blend of spices adds a rich depth that makes this dish stand out.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Roasted Carrots

Fried Halloumi Salad

This salad features crispy fried halloumi, which brings a salty, savory bite, paired with fresh greens and veggies. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and flavorful option that can easily stand alone as a meal. The halloumi’s golden crust adds texture, while the fresh salad elements keep it light. It’s a satisfying dish with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Fried Halloumi Salad

Crispy Plantain Chips

These crispy plantain chips are a simple yet delicious snack, made with just plantains and a bit of oil. Ready in 25 minutes, they offer a crunchy, slightly sweet flavor that’s a great alternative to traditional chips. Perfect on their own or paired with dips, they’re versatile and easy to make. The air-frying method makes them a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Plantain Chips

Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

This white bean salad is packed with Mediterranean flavors, featuring creamy feta, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s a quick and filling side dish that can also serve as a light meal. The beans provide a hearty base, while the feta and herbs add brightness. It’s a refreshing, protein-rich dish with a satisfying texture.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta

Goat Cheese Salad

A simple and refreshing salad, this dish features creamy goat cheese crumbled over fresh greens and veggies. Ready in 10 minutes, it’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to complement a larger meal. The tangy goat cheese pairs perfectly with the crisp, fresh salad ingredients. It’s a straightforward dish that’s flavorful and quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Salad

Marinated Tomatoes

These marinated tomatoes are bursting with flavor, thanks to a blend of herbs, garlic, and olive oil. Ready in 20 minutes, they’re juicy, tangy, and full of summer freshness, perfect as a side dish or topping for bread. The marinade enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding a savory depth. They’re an easy, flavorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Tomatoes

Colombian Baked Plantains with Guava and Cheese

This dish features ripe plantains baked to caramelized perfection and topped with sweet guava and melted cheese. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a dessert-like side dish with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of guava and cheese adds a unique twist that makes it stand out. It’s a comforting and indulgent treat that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Baked Plantains with Guava and Cheese

Colombian Cheese Arepas

These Colombian cheese arepas are a comforting side dish made with cornmeal and melted cheese. Ready in 30 minutes, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a cheesy center that’s hard to resist. Perfect on their own or served with other dishes, they’re versatile and satisfying. The cornmeal gives them a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that complements the cheese.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Cheese Arepas

German Roasted Cauliflower with Curry Cashew Crust

This dish features cauliflower roasted with a curry-spiced cashew crust, offering a unique blend of flavors. Ready in 35 minutes, the cauliflower is tender with a crunchy, flavorful topping that adds a nice contrast in texture. The curry and cashews bring a warm, nutty flavor that pairs well with the mild cauliflower. It’s a hearty and flavorful side that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: German Roasted Cauliflower with Curry Cashew Crust

Lime, Chili, and Ginger-Dressed Broccoli

This broccoli dish is dressed with a zesty lime, chili, and ginger dressing, giving it a bright and slightly spicy kick. Ready in 20 minutes, the broccoli retains its crunch, making it a fresh and vibrant side dish. The dressing adds a bold flavor that’s both refreshing and invigorating. It’s a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy broccoli.
Get the Recipe: Lime, Chili, and Ginger-Dressed Broccoli

Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa

These black bean tacos are a hearty and flavorful option, featuring a savory filling and sweet pepper salsa. Ready in 25 minutes, they’re a quick and satisfying meal that’s also meat-free. The black beans provide a rich, earthy base, while the salsa adds a fresh and slightly sweet contrast. It’s a balanced and delicious dish that’s perfect for taco night.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa

Argentinian Empanadas

These Argentinian empanadas are filled with a variety of savory ingredients, wrapped in a flaky, golden pastry. Ready in about 1 hour, they’re a bit more time-consuming but well worth the effort for their rich, satisfying flavor. The filling options range from cheese to veggies, offering versatility to suit different tastes. They make a perfect appetizer or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas

Marinated Tofu Spring Rolls

These tofu spring rolls are fresh and light, with a marinated tofu filling wrapped in crisp veggies and rice paper. Ready in 30 minutes, they’re a healthy, refreshing option that’s perfect as a light meal or snack. The tofu adds a savory element, while the veggies provide crunch and freshness. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Tofu Spring Rolls

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

These grilled chicken kofta kebabs are flavorful and juicy, seasoned with a mix of spices that give them a rich taste. Ready in 40 minutes, they’re a hearty option that’s perfect for grilling season. The chicken is tender and pairs well with a variety of sides or can be enjoyed on its own. It’s a flavorful dish that’s great for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Colombian Fruit Salad

This Colombian fruit salad is a colorful and refreshing mix of tropical fruits, perfect for a light and healthy dessert. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s quick to prepare and full of natural sweetness from the fresh fruit. The variety of fruits offers a range of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice. It’s a simple way to enjoy the best of summer fruits.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Fruit Salad

Easy Gluten Free Samosas

These gluten-free samosas are crispy on the outside with a flavorful filling of spiced potatoes and peas. Ready in about 50 minutes, they’re a great option for a savory snack or appetizer that’s also gluten-free. The spiced filling offers a warm, comforting taste that contrasts nicely with the crispy pastry. They’re a tasty and satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Gluten Free Samosas