Sometimes the main event isn’t what steals the show, and that’s where a lineup of smart side dishes comes in to shake up your dinner routine. When the supporting acts are good, 17 side dishes can turn an average meal into something everyone’s talking about long after it’s over. These aren’t the background players that get pushed aside; they’re more like the surprise hit at a concert that makes you forget why you came in the first place.

Faux Potato Salad

If you’re looking to switch things up at your next meal, consider incorporating this unique twist on a classic side dish. Unlike traditional versions, Faux Potato Salad uses clever substitutions to create a similar texture and flavor profile. This dish is perfect for those aiming to reduce their carbohydrate intake without sacrificing the creamy comfort of a beloved salad. It’s a surefire hit for gatherings and can complement any main dish beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad

Pumpkin Fries

Break away from the typical side dishes with something unexpectedly delicious. Pumpkin Fries bring a sweet and savory element to your dinner that’s hard to match with conventional fries. This dish will catch your guests off guard in the best way, making your dinner memorable. Plus, they’re a fun way to introduce more vegetables into your diet.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Fries

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Looking for a way to add more vegetables to your dinner table? Baking zucchini till it’s crispy not only enhances its flavor but also gives it a wonderful crunch. Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven is an excellent choice for those who prefer lighter, healthier options without deep frying. Serve this next to your favorite main courses for a meal that balances indulgence with nutrition.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Crispy Low Carb French Fries

Enjoy the crispy texture of fries without all the carbs that usually come with them. Crispy Low Carb French Fries are designed to be a lighter alternative that doesn’t compromise on crunchiness. They pair wonderfully with any type of dipping sauce and are great for those keeping an eye on their carbohydrate intake. An appealing choice for a casual dinner or when you have a craving for something salty and crispy.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Low Carb French Fries

Homemade Curd Cheese

Upgrade your meals with a side dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Homemade Curd Cheese can be a versatile element on your dinner table, paired with various mains or even enjoyed alone. It’s particularly great for those who enjoy a touch of dairy richness with their meals. This side dish provides a comforting and creamy addition to any dinner spread.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Curd Cheese

Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish

Introduce a zing of flavor to your meal with a side that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful. Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish offers a crisp, tangy contrast to any rich, hearty main dishes. It’s perfect for cleansing the palate and adding a burst of freshness to every bite. A stellar choice for anyone looking to balance their meal with something light and invigorating.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish

Steamed Artichoke

There’s something about a beautifully steamed artichoke that makes any dinner feel a bit more special. Steamed Artichoke serves not only as a delicious side but also as an interactive experience for your guests. This dish invites diners to slow down and savor each leaf, making it both a nourishing and engaging addition to your table. It pairs effortlessly with a variety of dips.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke

Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Freshen up your meal with a side that offers a burst of vibrant flavors. Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad is a fantastic choice for those searching for a fulfilling side that’s both nutritious and full of taste. With its fresh, lively ingredients, it complements heavier dishes perfectly and is ideal for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

How to Rice Cauliflower

Transform cauliflower into a versatile side that’s both delicious and low in carbs. When you learn How to Rice Cauliflower, you open up a world of possibilities for using this healthy vegetable in various dishes. It serves as an excellent base for flavors and adds both texture and volume to your meal. Ideal for those looking for a rice substitute.
Get the Recipe: How to Rice Cauliflower

Lecso Vegetable Stew

Warm up your dinner time with a side that’s hearty and bursting with flavor. Lecso Vegetable Stew incorporates a variety of vegetables in a beautifully seasoned broth, making it a comforting and fulfilling addition to any meal. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you need something warm and filling that’s still healthy.
Get the Recipe: Lecso Vegetable Stew

Avocado Egg Salad

Give your dinner a creamy and fulfilling touch with a side that effortlessly combines simplicity and taste. Avocado Egg Salad is rich in nutrients and flavor, making it a smart choice for a quick side. It’s particularly great on a busy day when you need something that’s both easy to prepare and delicious. This salad pairs well with light main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Egg Salad

Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling

Change up your carbohydrate options with a side that’s both light and wonderful. Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling pairs well with hearty sauces and stews, providing the perfect vehicle to soak up delicious flavors without the heaviness of traditional breads. It’s ideal for those looking for lower-carb alternatives.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling

Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower

If you’re in need of a side that’s simple yet can stand up to any main dish, consider this wholesome alternative. Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower is not just easy to make but also wonderfully versatile, complementing a wide range of dishes from robust meat dishes to lighter vegan options. It’s an excellent base for any flavors you want to highlight.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower

Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread

Add a splash of color and a hint of sweetness to your dinner table with a side that’s as pretty as it is healthy. Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread is perfect for spreading on crackers or as an accompaniment to grilled meats. Its vibrant color and natural sweetness make any plate more appealing.
Get the Recipe: Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread

Rutabaga Fries

Swap traditional fries for this intriguing root vegetable that offers a new flavor profile along with its crunchy texture. Rutabaga Fries are a great addition to any meal, serving as a novel yet delicious side. They are fantastic for anyone looking to explore different vegetables in their diet.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries

Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes

Upgrade your comfort food game with a side that brings both texture and taste. Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes are the perfect choice for an indulgent yet familiar side dish. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a cozy family meal, these croquettes add a fulfilling crunch to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes

Coconut Cauliflower Rice

Introduce a hint of exotic flair to your meal with a side that infuses the mild flavors of cauliflower with the rich, tropical taste of coconut. Coconut Cauliflower Rice is a fabulous choice for enhancing any meal with its light texture and distinctive flavor. Ideal for those seeking to try something different in their meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cauliflower Rice