These 17 appetizers and sides are so tasty, they’ll keep guests happy even if the main dish isn’t perfect. Each one is designed to bring big flavor and can easily stand out on its own. From crowd-pleasing bites to hearty sides, these recipes make any meal feel complete. With options like these, you might even start to think the main dish is just a bonus.
Air Fryer Cheese Bites
Air Fryer Cheese Bites are a quick snack, ready in about 15 minutes, that packs a melty, cheesy flavor with a crispy crust. They’re made with simple cheese chunks coated in a light batter, perfect for anyone craving a savory, gooey bite. These are great for sharing but disappear quickly. Serve them up, and you might find your guests focused solely on these little bites.
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Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole
This Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole combines tender cauliflower with a creamy, cheesy sauce that bakes up in about 40 minutes. The melted cheese covers every bite, giving a rich flavor without being too heavy. It’s the kind of side dish that feels comforting and satisfying, with a hint of indulgence. Even if the main dish is off, this will definitely keep guests happy.
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Baked Brie With Peaches, Pecans, Herbs And Honey
Baked Brie with Peaches, Pecans, Herbs, and Honey combines creamy brie with juicy peaches, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of honey. This 20-minute appetizer is elegant yet simple, with flavors that balance sweet and savory. The brie melts into a creamy delight that pairs well with the toppings. It’s a showstopper that will have guests reaching for seconds.
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Colombian Baked Plantains Recipe With Guava And Cheese
Colombian Baked Plantains with Guava and Cheese bring together sweet, ripe plantains with tangy cheese and fruity guava paste. This 30-minute side dish is both unique and crowd-pleasing, offering a mix of sweet and savory flavors. The cheese melts slightly over the plantains, creating a rich, comforting bite. It’s a dish that could easily steal the spotlight.
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Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant Tomato Stacks are a layered appetizer with slices of eggplant, fresh tomato, and a sprinkle of herbs, all ready in about 30 minutes. The tender eggplant pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes, creating a light yet flavorful bite. It’s a simple side that feels fresh and slightly Mediterranean. Guests will love the flavors and might not even miss the main dish.
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Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
This Indian-Style Okra Curry (Bhindi Masala Gravy) brings tender okra in a spiced tomato gravy that cooks up in 40 minutes. The spices give it a warming, aromatic flavor, making it a standout side dish. It’s rich and satisfying, with flavors that go well with almost any main. Your guests might forget the rest of the meal with this on their plates.
Get the Recipe: Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Sauteed Cabbage with Peppers combines shredded cabbage and sweet bell peppers for a simple, colorful side ready in 15 minutes. The cabbage has a light crunch, and the peppers add a slight sweetness, making it a balanced and refreshing dish. This is a perfect side for those looking for a lighter option that still has plenty of flavor. It’s a reliable hit, even if the main dish falters.
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Sweet And Spicy Glazed Carrots Recipe With Red Wine
Sweet and Spicy Glazed Carrots with Red Wine bring together tender carrots with a red wine glaze that’s both tangy and a little spicy. Made in 25 minutes, these carrots are full of flavor and look great on the table. The glaze adds a hint of sophistication, elevating the humble carrot. They’ll be the side everyone remembers, even if the entrée doesn’t impress.
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Sweet Potato Hummus
Sweet Potato Hummus combines roasted sweet potatoes with chickpeas and a hint of garlic, creating a creamy and slightly sweet dip. Ready in about 20 minutes, this appetizer is as versatile as it is tasty. The natural sweetness from the potatoes balances the earthy hummus flavors perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can stand on its own if needed.
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Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip
Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip is a Moroccan-inspired dip made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and spices, ready in about 35 minutes. It’s smoky, savory, and just a bit tangy, ideal for dipping or spreading. This dish brings a unique flavor that’s both hearty and satisfying. Serve it up, and no one will mind if the main dish is running late.
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Zucchini Roll With Crab Salad
Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad is a light, refreshing appetizer featuring thin zucchini slices rolled around a creamy crab salad. This 20-minute dish is both visually appealing and full of fresh flavor, making it a great starter. The crab salad adds richness, while the zucchini keeps it light. It’s a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better.
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Tofu And Sundried Tomato Stuffed Mushrooms
Tofu and Sundried Tomato Stuffed Mushrooms combine hearty mushrooms with a filling of tofu and tangy sundried tomatoes. Ready in 30 minutes, these stuffed mushrooms are savory, rich, and perfect for sharing. The tofu adds a creamy texture that complements the mushrooms. Guests will love this satisfying bite, even if the main dish isn’t perfect.
Get the Recipe: Tofu And Sundried Tomato Stuffed Mushrooms
Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli And Peppers
Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli, and Peppers is a simple, flavorful side that brings together roasted veggies with a hint of lemon. Made in 35 minutes, this dish is fresh, light, and colorful on the table. The lemon adds brightness, and the vegetables get a perfect roast. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that works with any main.
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Spinach Colcannon Recipe
Spinach Colcannon mixes creamy mashed potatoes with tender spinach, creating a comforting and filling side dish in about 25 minutes. This dish is rich, smooth, and a bit earthy from the spinach, making it more than just a regular side. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own if needed. Guests will love the taste, even if the main dish goes unnoticed.
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Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks on Spicy Sweet Potato Puree combines roasted cauliflower with a creamy, slightly spicy sweet potato base. Ready in 40 minutes, this dish is filling, with a balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors. The cauliflower’s crisp edges pair well with the smooth puree. This side will be the one everyone remembers long after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Roasted Carrot And Feta Dip
Roasted Carrot and Feta Dip blends roasted carrots with whipped feta, honey, and a sprinkle of dukkah for a flavorful, creamy dip. This 30-minute recipe is both unique and approachable, perfect as an appetizer or side. The carrots bring natural sweetness, while the feta adds a rich creaminess. It’s a dip that could easily steal the spotlight.
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Sauteed Swiss Rainbow Chard
Sauteed Swiss Rainbow Chard combines fresh chard with a hint of garlic, making for a quick, vibrant side dish ready in 15 minutes. The chard has a slight crunch, and the garlic adds a simple but tasty layer of flavor. This side is fresh, light, and full of color. Guests might focus on this more than anything else on the table.
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