Tired of the same old side dishes at every family meal? It’s time to shake things up and add some excitement to the dinner table. Side dishes should be more than just something to fill up the plate; they can be fun and flavorful, sparking joy for everyone. From the youngest eaters to the grown-ups, there’s something special about discovering a new favorite that complements the main dish. So, get ready to impress your family with 15 exciting accompaniments that prove sides are anything but boring.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Say hello to your new favorite way to eat sweet potatoes. These cubes come out perfectly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and are a cinch to prepare. They’re a colorful, nutritious side that complements a wide range of dishes. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes prove that sometimes, the best flavors come in small, bite-sized packages. Plus, they’re a great excuse to break out the air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Corn Fritters
Here’s a side that’s always a hit at gatherings, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re fun to make, more fun to eat, and go well with just about anything. Each bite offers a crunchy outside with a soft, warm inside. Corn Fritters are the ultimate comfort food, promising smiles all around the table. They’re also perfect for dipping, making them a versatile choice.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters
Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Want to make dinner feel a bit more special without spending the whole day in the kitchen? These little towers of creamy, cheesy goodness are an instant upgrade. Not only do they look fancy, but the taste is out of this world – a dream come true for potato lovers. And there’s something about having their “own” stack that just make kids happy. Au Gratin Potato Stacks are here to make every plate a little bit more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Smoked Asparagus
If you’re looking to switch up how you serve veggies, this might be the trick. The smoking process gives the asparagus an irresistible new flavor that’s hard to get enough of. It’s an awesome side for meat or fish, giving your meal a bit of an unexpected twist. Easy to prep and even easier to devour, Smoked Asparagus is a brilliant way to shake up your vegetable routine. Who knew a simple smoke could do so much?
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus
Smoked Brussels Sprouts
Got someone in the house not too keen on their veggies? This method might just win them over. The smoke adds a whole new layer of flavor that’s hard to resist, turning these greens into something even skeptics will enjoy. Serve Smoked Brussels Sprouts next to your favorite main dish and watch them disappear. It’s a simple trick for a standout side.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts
Texas Corn Succotash
Bringing a touch of Southern charm to the table has never been easier. This dish is all about bright colors and fresh flavors, making it the perfect sidekick for BBQ or seafood. It’s not just about the looks; the mix of corn, bell peppers, and onions is seriously tasty. Plus, Texas Corn Succotash is super simple to whip up, whether you’re having a big family dinner or a quiet meal at home. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser without any of the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Never thought Brussels sprouts could be the star of the show? Think again. With a special twist that includes brown butter and almonds, even the pickiest eater might be tempted. They come out so beautifully that they could easily fit at a fancy dinner or a casual weeknight meal. Trust us, these Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds might just change your mind about this often-misunderstood veggie.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
When you mix tangy with sweet and throw in a bit of savory, you get something pretty special. It’s a side dish with a flavor profile that makes it a star, especially alongside pork dishes. Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon brings a zing that livens up any meal, offering a perfect balance of tastes. The combination might sound unusual at first, but one bite and you’ll be hooked. It’s all about surprising your senses in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
Air Fryer Corn on The Cob
No mess, no fuss, and ready in minutes. That’s the beauty of using an air fryer for this classic side. It locks in the sweetness, making every bite juicier and more flavorful. Perfect for when you want to keep things simple but utterly delicious. With Air Fryer Corn on The Cob, you get to enjoy the essence of summer any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on The Cob
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Ditch the ordinary salad for a version that packs a little extra kick. It’s fresh, it’s crunchy, and it has that hint of Tex-Mex flair that makes it anything but boring. Tex-Mex Caesar Salad is ideal for anyone looking to spice up their meal without going overboard. It pairs excellently with both grilled goodies and lighter fares. Bringing this salad to the table means you’re in for a vibrant treat.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Smoked Spaghetti Squash
On the lookout for something a bit lighter but still satisfying? Give this a whirl. The smoky flavor gives it an unexpected twist, making it a refreshing change from your usual sides. Smoked Spaghetti Squash works wonders with a variety of sauces and toppings, letting you customize to your heart’s content. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more veggies onto the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash
Creamed Corn
If you’re aiming for comfort in a bowl, this is where you’ll find it. It’s creamy, it’s rich, and it pairs wonderfully with both meaty and vegetarian mains. On days when you crave something hearty but easy, Creamed Corn is the go-to. It’s a side that brings back memories of family dinners and happy times. And really, who can say no to a dish that feels like a hug?
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Ukrainian Potatoes
If you’re after something cozy and comforting, but also easy enough for a weeknight, then you’ve got to try these little guys. They’re a hit with folks of all ages, turning a familiar favorite into something special with just the right touch. Perfect alongside almost anything, they’re especially good when you want a bit of crispy on the outsides and soft on the inside. And the best part? Getting them table-ready is a breeze, making Ukrainian Potatoes a stress-free choice.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Fried Tomatillos
Craving something crispy and tangy? Then you’ve got to try your hand at these. They’re a crispy, golden treat that stands out, especially when paired with a creamy dip. Fried Tomatillos are a playful addition to any meal, promising a bit of novelty on your plate. Who knew something so simple could pack so much punch?
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos
Bacon Fried Corn
Imagine the sweet taste of corn getting a smoky, crunchy upgrade. That’s exactly what you get with this dish, where each bite is a perfect mix of flavors. It’s simple, satisfying, and utterly irresistible. Bacon Fried Corn is the kind of side that turns a regular meal into something memorable. It’s proof that sometimes, the best tastes come from combining the simplest things.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn