Labor Day meals never feel complete without the right mix of sides to balance the main dishes. These recipes range from fresh salads and roasted vegetables to traditional favorites passed down through generations. Each one highlights simple ingredients that bring bold, memorable flavors to the table. Whether you’re grilling or roasting, these sides will round out any holiday plate.
Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing is ready in about 20 minutes and brings a crisp, refreshing bite to any plate. The mix of fresh kale, crunchy apples, and a tangy, slightly sweet dressing keeps it light but satisfying. Walnuts add texture while dried cranberries balance it with a touch of tartness. It’s the kind of side that disappears quickly at cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta
Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta takes 15 minutes and delivers a hearty mix of beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, and briny feta. Olive oil and lemon juice tie everything together for a clean, zesty flavor. It’s filling enough to stand on its own but still pairs well with grilled meats or fish. This side keeps things light without leaving anyone hungry.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta
Quinoa Cucumber Salad
Quinoa Cucumber Salad comes together in 25 minutes and balances protein-packed quinoa with refreshing cucumbers and herbs. A squeeze of lemon and olive oil dressing brightens the flavors while keeping it simple. The nutty quinoa makes it more substantial than a regular salad. It’s a light but satisfying choice that holds up well on a summer table.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Cucumber Salad
Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)
Russian Vinaigrette Salad takes about 45 minutes and combines potatoes, beets, carrots, and pickles for a colorful side. The mix of earthy vegetables and tangy brine makes it stand out from typical salads. It’s served cold, making it a refreshing but hearty option. This traditional dish brings a nostalgic touch to a holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)
Gluten-Free Carrot Soufflé
Gluten-Free Carrot Soufflé bakes in under an hour and turns carrots into a soft, lightly sweet side. Eggs and a touch of sugar make it airy, almost dessert-like, but still savory enough to sit beside roasted meats. Its texture is fluffy yet rich, making it a crowd-pleaser. This is the side people will ask you to bring again next year.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Carrot Soufflé
Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Tahini
Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Tahini cook in 20 minutes and deliver a smoky, nutty bite. The cabbage gets crispy edges while tahini sauce adds a creamy, savory layer. A sprinkle of chili or paprika brings just enough heat. This simple dish makes cabbage feel special and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Tahini
My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes takes about an hour and combines carrots, dried fruit, and honey into a sweet, comforting side. The slow-cooked flavors give it a warm, homey feel. It leans sweet but pairs surprisingly well with savory roasts. This is a dish that carries history onto the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli And Peppers
Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli And Peppers take about 40 minutes and bring color and brightness to any spread. The lemon cuts through the richness while olive oil ties the vegetables together. Potatoes make it hearty while broccoli and peppers keep it balanced. It’s a reliable sheet-pan side that works with almost any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli And Peppers
Ukrainian Cucumber Salad
Ukrainian Cucumber Salad takes just 10 minutes and delivers crisp, cool refreshment. Thinly sliced cucumbers are paired with dill and sour cream or yogurt for a tangy bite. The flavors are light and simple but stand out when served alongside heavier mains. It’s a cooling side perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Cucumber Salad
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree take about 45 minutes and bring a restaurant-quality side to the table. The cauliflower turns golden with a nutty flavor while the sweet potato puree adds creamy heat. The contrast of textures makes it satisfying without being heavy. It’s a bold choice for anyone wanting something unique.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Indian-Style Okra Curry, or Bhindi Masala Gravy, takes about 40 minutes and serves as a richly spiced side. Fresh okra is simmered with onions, tomatoes, and warm spices for a savory, slightly tangy dish. The sauce makes it perfect for scooping with bread or rice. It adds depth and variety to a holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
The Perfect Rice Pilaf
The Perfect Rice Pilaf takes 30 minutes and delivers fluffy, flavorful grains. Cooked with carrots, onions, and gentle spices, the rice is savory but not overpowering. It’s a versatile side that complements almost any main dish. This simple dish proves that rice can be anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: The Perfect Rice Pilaf
Crispy Cucumber Rice Salad
Crispy Cucumber Rice Salad comes together in 25 minutes and balances crunchy cucumbers with soft rice and sesame flavors. The contrast of textures makes it refreshing yet filling. Soy sauce or rice vinegar adds a tangy, savory kick. It’s a lighter side that works well with grilled or fried mains.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Cucumber Rice Salad
My Grandma's Recipe for Russian Cured Salmon
My Grandma's Recipe for Russian Cured Salmon takes a few days to prepare but pays off with buttery, flavorful slices. Salt, sugar, and fresh herbs cure the fish until tender. It’s salty, slightly sweet, and deeply savory. Served cold, it adds a refined touch to any Labor Day plate.
Get the Recipe: My Grandma's Recipe for Russian Cured Salmon
Sweet Noodle Kugel with Cognac-Soaked Raisins
Sweet Noodle Kugel with Cognac-Soaked Raisins bakes in about an hour and offers a rich, comforting side. Egg noodles, dairy, and raisins come together for a slightly sweet, custard-like dish. The hint of cognac makes it stand out with depth and warmth. It’s both nostalgic and indulgent, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Noodle Kugel with Cognac-Soaked Raisins
Salmon Salad With Bagel
Salmon Salad With Bagel can be made in 15 minutes and combines smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh vegetables. The flavors are creamy, salty, and refreshing all at once. Served on bagels or as a dip, it’s versatile and filling. This side doubles as a snack and a centerpiece dish.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad With Bagel
Russian Piroshki
Russian Piroshki take about 2 hours but reward you with warm, golden pastries filled with potatoes, cabbage, or mushrooms. The dough is soft and slightly sweet while the filling is hearty. They can be eaten by hand, making them perfect for gatherings. This is a side that feels festive and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Russian Piroshki
Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe
Lebanese Baba Ganoush comes together in 30 minutes and highlights smoky roasted eggplant. Blended with tahini, lemon, and garlic, it’s creamy and tangy with a hint of earthiness. Served with bread or vegetables, it’s a crowd-pleasing dip. This side brings a Middle Eastern flavor to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe
Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers takes about 20 minutes and turns simple vegetables into a flavorful side. The cabbage softens while peppers add sweetness and color. A touch of seasoning keeps it savory and balanced. It’s quick, reliable, and fits with nearly any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad
Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad takes just 15 minutes and combines tangy pickles with earthy beets and crisp cucumbers. The result is refreshing but layered with flavor. It works well alongside grilled or roasted meats. This side adds brightness and color to a holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad
Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)
Russian Potato Salad, or Olivier Salad, takes about an hour and blends potatoes, peas, carrots, and mayo for a creamy side. The flavors are savory, mildly tangy, and comforting. Served cold, it balances heavier hot dishes on the plate. This classic salad is a holiday staple for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)
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