A meal is only as strong as its weakest side dish, and these 31 recipes make sure that’s never a problem. They bring variety, personality, and just the right amount of “why haven’t I made this before?” to the table. Some are familiar favorites done right, and others mix things up in the best way, but every single one earns its spot. No more sides that get ignored while everyone goes straight for the main course.
Ukrainian Potatoes
These potatoes aren’t just a side—they’re a statement. Ukrainian Potatoes bring a satisfying texture with just the right balance of richness and warmth. They pair well with just about anything, making them a staple for meals that need something hearty. Whether served with simple flavors or something bold, they always deliver. A classic potato dish that refuses to be overlooked.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Smoked Cauliflower
Smoky, rich, and packed with flavor, this cauliflower side is anything but ordinary. Smoked Cauliflower takes on deep, bold flavors while keeping a soft, satisfying texture. It works as a perfect contrast to grilled or roasted mains, adding something extra without being overpowering. Whether served on its own or as part of a spread, it always finds a way to stand out. A great choice for those who want something different from the usual veggie sides.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
A side dish that proves greens can be both flavorful and satisfying, this dish brings a bold mix of texture and depth. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta offer a great balance of freshness with just the right amount of richness. They’re not just a way to use up extra greens—they’re a reason to buy beets in the first place. This is a side that fits in with anything, adding color and flavor to the table. A solid choice for those looking to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
A side that holds its own, these thick-cut cauliflower steaks bring the right balance of smoky flavor and satisfying texture. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks know how to handle high heat, creating a charred outside while staying tender inside. They pair well with almost anything, making them a strong addition to any plate. Whether served with bold flavors or simple seasonings, they never feel like an afterthought. If cauliflower had an attitude, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
This isn’t just a side—it’s a full-on experience of fresh and bold flavors that work together perfectly. Mediterranean Couscous Salad keeps things light yet filling, making it an ideal match for a wide range of meals. It has just the right amount of texture and a refreshing balance that never feels heavy. Whether served warm or cold, it knows how to fit in without fading into the background. A side that does its job and does it well.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Crispy on the edges, soft in the middle, and full of flavor—these potatoes are the definition of a crowd-pleaser. Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes take texture seriously, giving that perfect bite that keeps people coming back. They work as a side for just about anything, adding that extra something to any plate. Whether served with a dip or just as they are, they hold up. The kind of potatoes that disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Mexican Rice
A side that refuses to be ignored, this rice brings layers of flavor and just the right amount of kick. Mexican Rice is anything but plain, offering a depth that pairs well with everything from simple dishes to bold main courses. The texture is spot on, making it an easy favorite that never disappoints. It’s light enough to complement a meal yet packed with enough flavor to stand out. This is the rice that makes every plate better.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
These carrots prove that simple sides can still bring plenty of flavor. Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are soft, slightly sweet, and just the right kind of comforting. They go with just about anything, making them a reliable choice for any meal. Whether served with rich dishes or lighter options, they hold their own. A classic side that never feels out of place.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Grilled Ratatouille
A mix of fresh flavors with a deep, smoky finish, this side brings something special to the table. Grilled Ratatouille takes well-known ingredients and transforms them into something rich and satisfying. It works alongside a variety of mains, adding color and texture to the plate. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it always holds up. A side that’s as versatile as it is flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Light, fresh, and packed with bold flavors, this salad makes a strong case for being more than just a side. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp combines texture and balance in a way that keeps every bite interesting. It fits in just as easily at a summer cookout as it does at a casual dinner. Whether paired with grilled dishes or served on its own, it brings something extra to the table. A side that never feels like an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Grilled Vegetables
Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the ones that impress the most. Grilled Vegetables take on a whole new depth of flavor with just the right amount of char. The mix of textures keeps things interesting, making them a great addition to any meal. They’re the kind of side that fits in anywhere, from casual cookouts to more refined plates. A reminder that grilling makes everything better.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, these tots aren’t just a side—they’re a main attraction. Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots bring the perfect mix of crunch and richness, making them impossible to ignore. They work as a side, a snack, or something to steal off someone else’s plate. Whether served at a gathering or just for yourself, they disappear fast. A side that delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Light, flaky, and full of cheesy goodness, these biscuits don’t just sit on the plate—they demand attention. Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits bring the perfect balance of crisp edges and soft, buttery layers. They pair well with anything but are just as good on their own. Whether served as a side or a snack, they never last long. A bite-sized addition that makes any meal better.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Smoky, crisp, and perfectly balanced, this dish takes two simple ingredients and turns them into something special. Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad combines freshness with just the right amount of heartiness. It pairs well with just about anything, making it a go-to for all kinds of meals. Whether served warm or chilled, it never feels out of place. A side that proves simplicity can still be impressive.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Sweet, smoky, and full of flavor, this corn brings something extra to the table. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob takes the natural sweetness of corn and adds a deep, charred finish. It’s easy to pair with anything and always a hit at cookouts. Whether eaten straight off the cob or cut into pieces, it never disappoints. A simple side done right.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Cucumber Salad with Feta
Light, crisp, and full of flavor, this salad is the perfect refreshing side for any meal. Cucumber Salad with Feta brings together a great combination of textures, making it a go-to for balance on the plate. It’s simple but never boring, with just the right contrast to richer dishes. Whether served at a barbecue or alongside a casual meal, it works every time. A side that doesn’t try too hard but always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Bright, fresh, and packed with flavor, this cauliflower dish adds a pop of something extra to any meal. Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill keeps things light while still being satisfying. It works as a contrast to rich dishes or as a complement to lighter meals. Whether served warm or cold, it holds its own. A great choice for when you want a side with a little extra personality.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
This is a side that embraces fresh flavors while keeping things hearty enough to be satisfying. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes brings together a mix of textures that make every bite interesting. It works as a light yet filling addition to a meal, holding its own next to any main course. Whether served at a gathering or just for a weeknight dinner, it never feels out of place. A great mix of comfort and freshness in one dish.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
These Brussels sprouts bring the perfect mix of crisp texture and rich flavor. Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds take a simple vegetable and turn it into something special. They work as a side for everything from roasted meats to lighter dishes. Whether served fresh from the pan or slightly caramelized, they always hold up. A great choice for when you want vegetables that actually stand out.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Creamy, rich, and full of comfort, this casserole is a side dish that feels like home. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole takes everything great about mashed potatoes and adds a little extra heartiness. It’s the kind of dish that works for any occasion, whether casual or special. Whether served with roasted meats or on a holiday table, it always finds a way to be the favorite. A side that brings a little nostalgia with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Fresh herbs, bold flavors, and a smoky twist make this tabouli stand out. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings brightness and depth to any plate, making it a great match for grilled or roasted dishes. The mix of textures keeps things interesting while never feeling heavy. It’s light enough for warm days but flavorful enough to hold its own anytime. A fresh take on a classic side.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Parisian Potatoes
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor, these potatoes are as classic as it gets. Parisian Potatoes know how to bring just the right balance of texture and richness. They fit in with any meal, whether it’s casual or something more refined. Whether served with roasted meats or lighter fare, they always feel like the right choice. A potato side that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Turkey Fried Rice
A quick and satisfying side that brings together texture and bold flavors in every bite. Turkey Fried Rice makes great use of simple ingredients while keeping things balanced. It works alongside a variety of mains or even as a meal on its own. Whether served fresh or as leftovers, it always delivers. A solid choice when you want something hearty without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Smoked Mac & Cheese
This is mac and cheese with a serious upgrade. Smoked Mac & Cheese takes that creamy, comforting classic and adds a deep, smoky flavor that makes it unforgettable. It’s rich, packed with texture, and impossible to resist. Whether served at a cookout or a weeknight dinner, it fits right in. A mac and cheese that knows how to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Deep, smoky, and packed with flavor, these tomatoes make a strong case for being more than just a garnish. Quick Smoked Tomatoes add a layer of richness to any meal while still keeping things fresh. They’re easy to pair with just about anything, from grilled meats to lighter salads. Whether served warm or cold, they make an impact. A simple way to add something unexpected to the table.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Grilled Asparagus
Charred, crisp, and full of flavor, this asparagus proves that simple sides can still be impressive. Grilled Asparagus keeps things light while adding just the right amount of smokiness. It fits in with a variety of meals, making it an easy go-to. Whether served as part of a larger spread or on its own, it never feels out of place. A side that always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Creamed Corn
Smooth, slightly sweet, and just the right kind of comforting, this side dish never goes unnoticed. Creamed Corn brings a creamy texture that pairs well with everything from grilled dishes to hearty roasts. It’s simple but full of flavor, making it a staple on any table. Whether served at a summer barbecue or a holiday dinner, it fits right in. A classic side that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
German Yellow Beans
A side that brings a little something different to the table, these beans are full of flavor and texture. German Yellow Beans keep things simple while delivering just the right balance of richness and freshness. They go well with a variety of main dishes, making them an easy choice for any meal. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they hold up every time. A great way to mix up your usual side dish rotation.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans
Classic Mac and Cheese
This is the mac and cheese everyone expects—the kind that’s creamy, rich, and perfectly comforting. Classic Mac and Cheese doesn’t need anything fancy to be a favorite. It pairs well with anything, making it a go-to side for everything from casual dinners to special occasions. Whether served as part of a big meal or enjoyed on its own, it always delivers. A dish that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of tangy, this pineapple brings big flavor with minimal effort. Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze balances natural sweetness with a bright finish. It works as a side for grilled meats or even as a light dessert. Whether served warm or chilled, it always makes an impression. A simple way to add something unexpected to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Greek Green Beans
These green beans bring bold flavors while keeping things fresh and satisfying. Greek Green Beans work well with a range of dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal. They hold up well to strong flavors while still letting their natural texture shine. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they never feel like an afterthought. A solid choice for when you want a side that brings a little extra character.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans