A good side dish can turn any meal into something more satisfying. These 17 recipes add flavor, texture, and balance to whatever is on the table. Whether you need something light and fresh or rich and hearty, there’s an option that fits. Pair your main course with a side that makes every bite better.
Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Okra is cooked in a spiced tomato-based sauce, creating a rich and flavorful side dish. Made with okra, tomatoes, onions, and garam masala, it takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The okra softens while absorbing the bold spices. A great companion to rice or flatbread for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Shredded cabbage is cooked with colorful bell peppers for a light and savory side. Made with cabbage, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, it takes about 25 minutes to prepare. The vegetables stay slightly crisp while soaking up the simple seasoning. A quick and easy dish that pairs well with any main course.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Slices of eggplant and tomatoes are layered and baked for a simple but flavorful dish. Made with eggplant, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, it takes about 35 minutes to prepare. The eggplant softens while the cheese melts between the layers. A great option for serving alongside grilled meats or pasta.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are roasted until soft and slightly caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness. Made with cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and salt, they take about 25 minutes to prepare. The skins blister, adding a rich depth of flavor. A simple addition to salads, pasta, or grilled meats.
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Roasted Broccolini
Tender broccolini is roasted until slightly crispy with a light garlic seasoning. Made with broccolini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon, it takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The stalks stay tender while the tops develop a bit of crunch. A fresh and easy vegetable side that goes well with any meal.
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Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole
Cauliflower is baked in a creamy cheese sauce until bubbly and golden on top. Made with cauliflower, cheddar cheese, cream, and garlic, it takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The cheese sauce keeps it rich and smooth while the top gets slightly crisp. A warm and hearty dish that works well with roasted meats.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Easy Cauliflower Casserole
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Thick cauliflower slices are roasted and served over a smooth sweet potato puree with a hint of spice. Made with cauliflower, sweet potatoes, chili flakes, and olive oil, it takes about 50 minutes to prepare. The puree is slightly sweet with a bit of heat from the seasoning. A well-balanced dish that can be a side or a light main course.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Jerusalem Kugel
Egg noodles are baked with caramelized sugar and black pepper for a sweet and savory side. Made with egg noodles, sugar, black pepper, and eggs, it takes about an hour to prepare. The top gets slightly crisp while the inside stays soft and rich. A traditional dish that pairs well with roasted meats or holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Jerusalem Kugel
My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
Slow-cooked carrots are combined with dried fruit and honey for a naturally sweet and rich dish. Made with carrots, prunes, honey, and cinnamon, it takes about an hour to prepare. The carrots become soft, while the dried fruit adds a chewy texture. A classic side that works well with savory meals.
Get the Recipe: My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
Almond, Cranberry And Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole
Sweet potatoes are baked with almonds and cranberries for a side dish that balances savory and sweet. Made with sweet potatoes, almonds, cranberries, and spices, it takes about 45 minutes to prepare. The potatoes soften while the nuts add a slight crunch. A great option for holiday meals or hearty dinners.
Get the Recipe: Almond, Cranberry And Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole
Sauteed Swiss Rainbow Chard
Swiss chard is cooked until tender with garlic and a hint of lemon for a simple vegetable side. Made with rainbow chard, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, it takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The greens stay slightly crisp while absorbing the light seasoning. A colorful dish that pairs well with grilled meats or fish.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Swiss Rainbow Chard
Russian Piroshki
Soft pastry is filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and potatoes before being baked or fried. Made with dough, potatoes, onions, and herbs, they take about an hour to prepare. The filling is warm and slightly creamy, contrasting with the crisp exterior. A satisfying side or snack that pairs well with soups and stews.
Get the Recipe: Russian Piroshki
Sweet And Spicy Glazed Carrots Recipe With Red Wine
Carrots are cooked with a red wine glaze that balances sweetness with a touch of spice. Made with carrots, red wine, honey, and chili flakes, they take about 35 minutes to prepare. The glaze thickens as it cooks, coating the carrots in a rich sauce. A flavorful side dish that works with roasted meats.
Get the Recipe: Sweet And Spicy Glazed Carrots Recipe With Red Wine
Spinach Colcannon Recipe
Mashed potatoes are blended with sautéed spinach and butter for a creamy, comforting dish. Made with potatoes, spinach, butter, and milk, it takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The spinach adds freshness while the potatoes stay smooth and rich. A great side for hearty meat dishes or holiday meals.
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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts With Feta, Pomegranate And Balsamic
Brussels sprouts are air-fried until crispy, then tossed with feta, pomegranate seeds, and balsamic glaze. Made with Brussels sprouts, feta cheese, pomegranate, and balsamic, they take about 25 minutes to prepare. The sprouts develop a crisp outer layer, while the toppings add a mix of tangy and sweet flavors. A modern twist on a classic side.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts With Feta, Pomegranate And Balsamic
Roast Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe
Asparagus spears are air-fried until tender, with a slight char on the tips. Made with asparagus, olive oil, salt, and lemon, they take about 15 minutes to prepare. The high heat keeps them crisp while bringing out their natural flavor. A simple, fresh side that works with any main dish.
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Boursin Hasselback Potatoes
Thinly sliced potatoes are baked with a creamy Boursin cheese filling for a rich and flavorful side. Made with potatoes, Boursin cheese, butter, and garlic, they take about an hour to prepare. The edges get crisp while the inside stays soft and cheesy. A great dish for pairing with roasted meats or hearty mains.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Hasselback Potatoes
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