Struggling to pick sides that actually get eaten? These 31 sides are the solution to stop food from getting the cold shoulder. From satisfying textures to bold flavors, these dishes are crowd-tested and plate-approved. No more politely shifting food around to look full; these sides bring more action to the table than a family reunion argument. Even the pickiest eaters won’t stand a chance—forks up, resistance down.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
When it comes to barbecue sides, Grilled Elote Corn Ribs are the conversation starter that no one ignores. These smoky, charred beauties bring boldness to the plate, ensuring they’re the first to disappear. Perfectly portable and easy to share, they make mains look lazy. Let’s face it—this dish turns a simple ear of corn into something irresistible, taking its rightful place in the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Ukrainian Potatoes
For those who appreciate simplicity done right, Ukrainian Potatoes are a side that’s hard to resist. These perfectly cooked potatoes are hearty, satisfying, and full of rich, comforting flavor. They hold their own against any main dish without overshadowing it. Bring some Eastern European tradition to your table with a recipe that’s timeless and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Turkey Fried Rice
A quick, satisfying option, Turkey Fried Rice combines heartiness with the convenience of a one-pan dish. It’s a side that feels like a meal in itself, but pairs effortlessly with other mains. Perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner, it’s packed with flavor and easy to enjoy. Bring variety to your plate with this unique twist on a classic side.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Grilled Asparagus
It’s the perfect way to add something green without sacrificing flavor or appeal. Grilled Asparagus proves that simplicity can steal the show. Smoky and tender, it’s the kind of side dish that feels upscale but works with any meal. Whether you’re serving a roast or something lighter, this vegetable never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Perfectly balanced and refreshing, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp brings bold flavor and lightness to the table. This versatile dish works beautifully as a side or a light main course. With its mix of textures and Mediterranean flair, it’s the crowd-pleaser everyone wants more of. Whether for lunch or dinner, this salad proves that sides can be anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Smoked Cauliflower
Smoky and tender, Smoked Cauliflower takes a simple vegetable and makes it unforgettable. This is the kind of side that earns compliments from even the pickiest eaters. Packed with robust flavor, it pairs well with hearty mains or lighter fare. If you’re looking for something unique and satisfying, this dish hits all the marks.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Classic Mac and Cheese
Nothing satisfies quite like Classic Mac and Cheese, the ultimate comfort side that everyone reaches for first. Creamy, rich, and always dependable, it’s the dish that can outshine any main course. Balancing indulgence and nostalgia, it’s a crowd-pleaser that leaves no leftovers. Whether it’s for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this side proves that simplicity often wins.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese
Fasolakia Lathera
The humble green bean gets a Mediterranean twist with Fasolakia Lathera, a dish that’s both hearty and vibrant. Perfectly cooked and steeped in flavor, it’s the kind of side that could double as the main if it tried. Light yet satisfying, it pairs beautifully with everything on the table. Give your meal a global touch with this Greek-inspired dish that never stays on the plate for long.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Meet the crispy perfection of Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes, the side that proves simplicity works wonders. Golden on the outside and tender on the inside, these potatoes are your go-to for any gathering. They’re versatile enough for any main and satisfying enough to stand on their own. Serve them hot, and watch them vanish before you even get seconds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Vibrant and light, Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a refreshing addition that fits right in with hearty meals. Its balance of textures and flavors makes it a standout side for any occasion. Easy to pair and even easier to enjoy, this dish works for every season. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch or a special dinner, this salad knows how to impress without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Forget plain corn—Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob is here to redefine what side dishes can be. Smoky, slightly charred, and bursting with flavor, it’s impossible to push this dish to the side. Whether it’s a barbecue or a dinner party, it’s guaranteed to draw attention. Let this be the side dish that earns all the compliments at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Crispy, indulgent, and loaded with flavor, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are the side that guarantees empty plates. Perfect for sharing, they bring comfort and boldness to any meal. This is not your average potato dish—it’s the upgrade everyone loves. Serve them hot and watch as they steal the spotlight from the main course.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
A reliable crowd-pleaser that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes is a vibrant, refreshing side that pairs beautifully with rich or light meals. It balances smoky and fresh flavors, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. This salad adds a Mediterranean touch that works for casual meals or elegant gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
If you’re looking for something unique yet approachable, this side checks all the boxes. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta is the unexpected side that packs a punch of flavor and texture. It’s a great way to add variety to your plate while keeping things balanced. This dish works beautifully with hearty mains or lighter options.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Smoky and satisfying, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks turn a simple vegetable into a meal-worthy side. Their hearty texture and bold flavor make them a perfect complement to any main. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these steaks deliver every time. Serve them up for a side that’s as memorable as the main event.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Quick Smoked Tomatoes are a simple yet impactful addition to any meal, bringing a burst of smoky richness to the plate. These little flavor bombs complement everything from salads to grilled mains. Their versatility makes them a go-to option for elevating casual meals or creating something special. Add them to your next menu for a side that stands out effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Few dishes bring comfort like Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole, a rich, indulgent addition to any meal. It’s the kind of side that has everyone going back for seconds before the mains are gone. Balancing creamy and hearty textures, it’s a timeless crowd favorite. Serve it at any gathering, and watch how quickly it disappears.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Bright and satisfying, Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill is a side that brings fresh, balanced flavor to any plate. It’s light enough to complement rich mains but flavorful enough to stand on its own. Perfect for any occasion, this dish ensures that vegetables are never an afterthought. Make room for this simple yet impactful addition at your table.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Sweet and savory come together in Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots, a dish that knows how to keep things simple yet satisfying. This side brings warmth and a touch of nostalgia to every meal. It’s an easy win for family dinners or potlucks, pleasing even the pickiest of eaters. Add a little comfort to your table with a recipe that feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
For a sweet yet smoky touch, Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze transforms a humble fruit into a star side dish. It’s the perfect complement to savory mains, adding a hint of tropical flair to your meal. This unique option works beautifully for cookouts, family dinners, or any occasion needing a fresh twist. Serve it up, and let the compliments roll in.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Celebrate spring with a dish that’s as vibrant as the season itself. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes is a seasonal side that brings freshness and variety to your plate. It’s a balanced blend of textures and flavors, making it a versatile option for any meal. Light yet satisfying, this salad is as perfect for weeknight dinners as it is for special gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Mexican Rice
Full of bold flavor and perfect balance, Mexican Rice is the side that can stand on its own or complement any main. It’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to pair with a variety of dishes. Whether it’s a casual meal or a festive gathering, this dish brings something extra to the table. Make it a staple for meals that need a little more flair.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
A fresh take on a classic, Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad combines smoky, hearty, and vibrant elements in one dish. It’s versatile enough to fit any menu, from barbecues to elegant dinners. Balancing bold and subtle flavors, it’s a side that doesn’t play second fiddle to the main. Add it to your repertoire for a guaranteed hit at any table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
A versatile option, they add comfort and charm to any meal. Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits are the perfect bite-sized side that everyone reaches for first. Light, buttery, and packed with flavor, they’re ideal for brunches, dinners, or casual get-togethers. These little treats disappear faster than they can be served, leaving no room for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Creamy, smoky, and unforgettable, Smoked Mac & Cheese is the ultimate side dish for anyone who loves bold flavors. It’s rich enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. This isn’t your ordinary comfort food; it’s a step up that leaves a lasting impression. Add it to your menu for a dish that satisfies every time.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Cucumber Salad with Feta
Light and refreshing, Cucumber Salad with Feta is the side dish that brings balance to any meal. Its crisp texture and creamy finish make it a versatile option for rich or simple mains. Whether for a summer gathering or a cozy dinner, this dish keeps things fresh without being forgettable. Serve it up for a side that’s both easygoing and impressive.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Add a little sophistication to your meal with this crowd-pleasing favorite. Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds offer a rich, nutty flavor that makes this side impossible to ignore. Perfectly cooked and slightly crispy, they add both texture and boldness to the table. They’re an excellent match for hearty mains or holiday spreads.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Grilled Ratatouille
Smoky, colorful, and bursting with flavor, Grilled Ratatouille takes a French classic to the grill for a side that’s both hearty and fresh. It’s a versatile addition to any table, pairing beautifully with everything from roasts to lighter mains. This dish is perfect for showcasing the best of seasonal produce. Bring some French flair to your next meal with this standout side.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Parisian Potatoes
Elegant yet simple, Parisian Potatoes are the side dish that elevates any meal with their perfectly cooked texture and flavor. They fit seamlessly into casual meals or formal occasions, stealing the show without overpowering the main. A classic side that never goes out of style, it’s a go-to option for any time of year. Serve these up for guaranteed smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Grilled Vegetables
Simple yet impactful, Grilled Vegetables bring smoky, caramelized flavor to your table with minimal fuss. They’re a versatile side that fits with any main dish and offer a lighter option without compromising on taste. Perfect for weeknight meals or outdoor gatherings, they’re a staple that everyone can enjoy. Serve them up for a healthy, flavorful addition to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
German Yellow Beans
Hearty and flavorful, German Yellow Beans are a side dish that combines tradition and taste in one comforting dish. Perfectly cooked and balanced, they complement everything from roasts to lighter mains. A nod to European cooking, they’re a side that stands out without trying too hard. Add this classic to your table for a timeless and satisfying option.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans