Side dishes don’t have to cost a lot or feel like an afterthought. These recipes keep it simple, use everyday ingredients, and still bring flavor. Whether you’re feeding one or feeding a crowd, they fit both your mood and your budget. They’re the kind of sides you’ll actually make again.
Roast Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe
Roast air fryer asparagus takes 10 minutes and uses fresh asparagus, oil, and seasoning. The texture is crisp on the outside with tender centers. The flavor is clean and slightly nutty. It’s fast, cheap, and works with just about anything on the plate.
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Almond, Cranberry And Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole
Almond, cranberry and sweet potato stuffing casserole takes about 40 minutes and includes sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, and almonds. It’s sweet, savory, and has a soft texture with a little crunch on top. The flavor feels like the holidays but works year-round. It’s a solid side that doesn’t cost much to make.
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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts With Feta, Pomegranate And Balsamic
Crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts take 20 minutes and use sprouts, feta, pomegranate seeds, and balsamic glaze. The sprouts are crisp, the cheese is salty, and the fruit adds just enough pop. It’s sharp, fresh, and a little tangy. It feels like a splurge but keeps the grocery bill in check.
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Jerusalem Kugel
Jerusalem kugel takes about 90 minutes and includes noodles, black pepper, and caramelized sugar. The flavor is peppery and sweet with a chewy texture. It’s not your typical side but works with both meat and veggie mains. It’s budget-friendly and feeds a crowd.
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Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Roasted cauliflower steaks take 45 minutes and feature cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and spices. The flavor is bold, slightly spicy, and smooth underneath. The contrast between the crisp edges and creamy base works well. It looks like it costs more than it does.
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Russian Piroshki
Russian piroshki takes about 60 minutes and is made with dough, cabbage, and egg filling. The outside is golden and soft, while the inside is savory and warm. They’re filling, portable, and good hot or cold. You can stretch a batch without stretching your wallet.
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Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Sauteed cabbage with peppers takes 20 minutes and uses green cabbage, bell peppers, and onion. The flavor is simple and just a little sweet from the sauté. It’s soft but has a slight bite. It’s a cheap go-to side that works with any protein.
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Spinach Colcannon Recipe
Spinach colcannon takes 30 minutes and includes mashed potatoes, spinach, butter, and onion. The taste is rich, creamy, and a little earthy. It’s a comfort food dish with a twist. It costs little and stretches far.
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My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
Carrot tzimmes takes 45 minutes and uses carrots, sweet potatoes, prunes, and honey. The flavor is sweet and slightly earthy, with a soft, tender texture. It’s one of those recipes that feels familiar after one bite. It’s affordable and built to fill you up.
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Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant tomato stacks take 40 minutes and layer roasted eggplant, tomato, and herbs. The flavor is savory, with a soft texture and a little char. They’re simple but feel put together. They’re a solid low-cost side dish that looks like more work than it is.
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Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Okra curry takes 40 minutes and includes okra, tomatoes, onion, and spices. The sauce is thick and spicy, with tender okra in every bite. It’s bold, budget-friendly, and works with rice or flatbread. It’s a strong side that can double as a meal.
Get the Recipe: Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole
Cheesy cauliflower casserole takes 30 minutes and uses cauliflower, cheese, and a basic sauce. It’s creamy, cheesy, and soft with a little baked crust. The flavor hits like mac and cheese but with veggies. It’s easy on the wallet and good for leftovers.
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Sauteed Swiss Rainbow Chard
Sauteed rainbow chard takes 15 minutes and features rainbow chard, garlic, and olive oil. The leaves are tender with crispy stems and a light bitter edge. It’s bright, quick, and pairs well with everything. It’s one of the cheaper greens that still feels fresh.
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Quinoa Cucumber Salad
Quinoa cucumber salad takes 20 minutes and includes quinoa, cucumber, lemon, and herbs. The flavor is light, citrusy, and refreshing. It’s soft with a little crunch and keeps well. It’s a chill side that works all week and costs less than you think.
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Sweet And Spicy Glazed Carrots Recipe With Red Wine
Sweet and spicy glazed carrots take 25 minutes and use carrots, red wine, and a pinch of chili. The glaze is rich and tangy with a warm finish. The carrots stay tender with just enough bite. It’s a side that looks fancy but uses what’s already in the pantry.
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Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Tahini
Spicy cabbage steaks take 20 minutes and include cabbage, tahini, and chili spices. The flavor is sharp, nutty, and just a little smoky. The outside crisps while the inside softens up. It’s low-cost but makes a bold impression.
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Sweet Noodle Kugel with Cognac-Soaked Raisins
Sweet noodle kugel takes an hour and includes egg noodles, raisins, cinnamon, and a creamy custard. The flavor is sweet and rich with soft noodles and chewy raisins. The top bakes golden while the inside stays soft. It feeds many without needing fancy ingredients.
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