Grandma’s side dishes are the secret to making every meal unforgettable. These classics are designed to complement any main dish. No matter how good the main course is, Grandma’s sides will always steal the spotlight. You could serve a five-star entrée, but without the right side, you’re just serving food. Grandma knew this—and made sure her side dishes always brought the “wow.”
Ukrainian Potatoes
It’s the kind of dish that brings a sense of home to every meal. Ukrainian Potatoes are hearty, comforting, and always a hit at the dinner table. Their thick, rich texture makes them perfect for pairing with anything from roast meats to sausages. This side dish is a great way to fill the plate while complementing the rest of your meal. The subtle seasonings provide just the right amount of flavor without taking over.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Greek Green Beans
You can’t go wrong with Greek Green Beans, a side dish that brings a burst of flavor and a fresh touch to any dinner. These beans are perfectly cooked and seasoned, offering a satisfying contrast to heavier main courses. Whether paired with grilled meats or baked chicken, they balance out the meal with their bright taste. It’s a simple dish that always adds something extra without stealing the spotlight. It’s just the kind of side that makes everything else on the plate better.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans
Mexican Rice
One of those staples that always leaves everyone satisfied. Mexican Rice is one of those side dishes that just fits with anything. This flavorful, fluffy rice complements any type of main dish, whether it’s tacos, grilled chicken, or a hearty stew. Its subtle mix of spices adds depth to the plate without overwhelming the other flavors. It’s also versatile enough to work with a variety of cuisines, making it a great go-to side for weeknight meals or dinner parties.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
This dish always has a way of impressing without any fuss. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta is a dish that’s surprisingly easy to make but delivers big on flavor. The slightly earthy beet greens are paired with crispy pancetta, making it the perfect side for meats or as a standalone treat. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish, combining the right amount of saltiness and freshness. It’s an easy way to add some healthy greens to the table without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Parisian Potatoes
With Parisian Potatoes, you get a side that’s both simple and elegant. These potatoes are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect pairing for just about anything. Their delicate flavor works well with meats, fish, or even as part of a vegetable medley. No matter the main dish, these potatoes will bring a touch of sophistication to your plate. It’s one of those sides that adds a little extra to make everything feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
A crowd-pleaser that balances freshness with heartiness. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a fresh, light side that works for both warm-weather meals and cozy family dinners. The orzo and shrimp create a satisfying base, while the Mediterranean flavors add a wonderful punch. It’s the kind of dish that pairs easily with grilled meats or serves as the star of the table. This salad brings a little taste of the Mediterranean to the table without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
There’s something about Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill that makes it a standout side dish. The lemon adds a bright, fresh kick while the dill brings a herby punch to the mix. It’s a simple side that works with everything, from grilled fish to hearty meats. This dish is perfect for those who want to add some lightness and flavor to their meal without overloading the plate. It’s a light but satisfying choice that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Turkey Fried Rice
Whether it’s served with grilled chicken or stir-fried vegetables, this dish is always a hit, and people will be asking for the recipe. Turkey Fried Rice is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey and turn it into something exciting. This fried rice takes leftovers and turns them into a flavorful, satisfying side dish that’s more than just a filler. It’s an easy way to change up the routine and add some variety to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon
A classic side that never goes out of style. Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon is a dish that speaks for itself. The rich creaminess of the sour cream perfectly complements the crispy bacon, creating a flavor combination that’s irresistible. This dish takes ordinary potatoes to the next level, adding a comforting, satisfying side to your meal. Whether you’re serving it with a steak or a salad, these potatoes will make everything taste better.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
The unique shape and taste make this one a memorable addition to any meal. Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs take your typical corn on the cob and turn it into something unforgettable. The corn is cut into rib-like sections and coated in a parmesan garlic blend that enhances its natural sweetness. This side dish is perfect for summer barbecues or as a side to grilled meats and burgers. It’s easy to prepare and adds a flavorful twist to a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
These green beans are perfect for busy evenings, as they practically cook themselves while you take care of other things. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are a perfect side for those looking for something hearty and full of flavor. The slow-cooked beans are tender and flavorful, infused with all the right seasonings for a comforting side. They pair perfectly with anything from barbecue to roast chicken, making them a versatile choice for any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan
A simple, understated side that everyone will enjoy. Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan is a side dish that brings a unique flavor to the table. The roasted kohlrabi offers a slightly sweet and earthy taste that pairs well with the salty richness of parmesan. This dish is a great way to introduce new flavors to your dinner without being too adventurous. It works well alongside roast meats or as part of a veggie medley.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan
Greek Lemon Potatoes
Greek Lemon Potatoes bring the perfect balance of tang and flavor to any meal. The potatoes are tender and infused with a citrusy zing, making them a great side to heavier or grilled dishes. Their freshness adds a lightness to the plate, ensuring your meal feels well-rounded. Whether paired with lamb, chicken, or fish, these potatoes provide just the right touch of flavor to complete your dinner. It’s a side that always has a place at the table.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes
Mexican Black Beans
This side is both filling and versatile, making it a go-to for many dinner spreads. Mexican Black Beans are a flavorful, hearty side that can be served with just about anything. Their slightly smoky flavor and rich texture make them the perfect complement to grilled meats, tacos, or even as a standalone dish. The beans are simple but packed with flavor, offering a great balance to any meal. It’s a side that never gets old and always satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Everyone will be asking for seconds of this golden treat. Sweet Potato Cornbread is the perfect side for those who love a little sweetness with their bread. The texture is moist, and the sweet potato gives it a rich flavor that pairs well with savory dishes. This cornbread is ideal for barbecues, stews, or even a holiday dinner. It’s the kind of side dish that stands out without taking over the entire meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Great way to add some variety to your dinner table while still keeping things simple. Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce is a soft, pillowy side dish that takes pasta to a whole new level. The light lemon flavor balances perfectly with the richness of the parmesan sauce, creating a satisfying combination. This dish adds an elegant touch to any meal and works well with both meat and vegetarian options. People will keep coming back for more of this creamy, flavorful side.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is a dish that turns ordinary mashed potatoes into a hearty, filling meal. With a crispy, golden top and smooth, creamy layers inside, it’s the perfect side to any main dish. You can always count on it to be the crowd favorite—everyone will be reaching for seconds. It has a way of making even the simplest of meals feel special, adding a bit of comfort and warmth to the plate. It’s the kind of dish that brings the family together.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole