Who said a meal has to revolve around a main dish? These 31 side dish recipes are here to prove that the sides can have all the fun. Packed with flavor, texture, and variety, these dishes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re skipping the main course or just need something extra. With these sides, the main course might start feeling a little unnecessary—because why settle for one dish when you can have a whole table full of awesome?
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
You can skip the main and let Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits shine. These golden, flaky biscuits are a side that’s so satisfying, it might just be the highlight of your meal. They’re perfect for snacking or serving alongside any meal. With each bite, you’ll appreciate how simple yet delicious these biscuits are, and they’re easy to make too.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
If you think sides are just filler, Mediterranean Couscous Salad will make you think again. This salad brings fresh flavors and satisfying textures that make it a solid choice for any meal. A perfect standalone side that can stand up to anything a main course could offer. It’s simple, refreshing, and filling enough to make you question the need for a main course.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Perfect for a light meal or as an easy, yet flavorful, side to any other dish. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob is a side that can hold its own. Smoky, tender, and sweet, it’s the perfect dish when you don’t want to worry about making a heavy main course. It’s simple to prepare but will leave a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Looking for a dish that’s satisfying but won’t leave you feeling stuffed? Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is your go-to. With its fresh ingredients and balance of flavors, it’s perfect for a meal on its own or as a complement to any dish. It’s a light, healthy option that’s filling but not overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Smoked Cauliflower
A great side that proves you don’t always need protein. Smoked Cauliflower is a side dish that could easily become the main event. The smoky flavor gives this cauliflower a rich depth that’ll leave you questioning if it needs anything else. Perfectly charred and tender, this dish is a great way to add excitement to any meal, and it’s satisfying on its own too.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
You don’t need a main course when Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are on the table. These crispy, golden potatoes are all you need to make a meal feel complete. They’re flavorful enough to stand alone but can easily complement other dishes. Forget the hassle of a complicated main course—these potatoes are easy to prepare and packed with flavor that’s sure to please any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Turkey Fried Rice
Who says you need a heavy main course to fill you up? Turkey Fried Rice takes the spotlight as a meal on its own. It’s a great option for using up leftovers while still enjoying a dish that’s hearty and satisfying. This rice dish is a perfect example of how side dishes can be more than just a filler—they can steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Skip the complicated mains and let this casserole take center stage. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole brings comfort in every bite. It’s one of those sides that could take the place of a main course, thanks to its rich, creamy texture and satisfying flavors. A hearty, no-fuss dish that’s perfect for when you want something that feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Grilled Asparagus
Skip the traditional main and go for Grilled Asparagus instead. This simple side packs a punch with its smoky, charred edges and tender stalks. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a light, fresh meal when you don’t feel like making a big deal of things. Just grill, season, and enjoy—no need for anything else.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Mexican Rice
It brings a punch of flavor to any table and will quickly become a favorite. Mexican Rice is a side that can carry the whole meal. Whether you serve it on its own or with a light accompaniment, this rice dish is full of flavor. It’s hearty enough to skip a heavy main course and just enjoy as is.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
They’re hearty, flavorful, and could easily be the star of the show. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks offer a meaty texture without the need for actual meat. Thick, smoky, and full of flavor, these steaks are a satisfying main-side hybrid. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to shake up the usual side options.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Looking for something light but satisfying? Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes is an ideal side that can easily be a meal in itself. With the fresh spring vegetables and hearty potatoes, it’s filling but not overwhelming. A perfect option when you don’t want a heavy main but still crave something substantial. It’s fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Classic Mac and Cheese
Why bother with a complicated main when this dish is all you need? Classic Mac and Cheese is the side that’s basically a meal by itself. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, it’s all you need to satisfy hunger without worrying about a big main course. It’s a timeless dish that will never go out of style, whether you’re serving it alone or with something else.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
If you’re looking for a side that can double as a meal, Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad is a solid choice. This salad is hearty enough to satisfy without the need for a main course. The combination of grilled vegetables and potatoes offers a filling dish that’s simple but flavorful. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and freshness, all in one.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
A great side that’s hearty enough to stand alone. Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds could easily take the place of a main. With their nutty crunch and rich, buttery flavor, they offer a satisfying bite every time. These Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and just the right balance of crispy and tender.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
If you want a side that stands out, Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill is your answer. This dish brings fresh, bright flavors that pair well with any meal or can shine all on its own. The crispy edges and tender interior make it satisfying enough to skip the heavy main course. A side that adds flavor without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Grilled Vegetables
They’re easy to make and full of flavor without all the fuss of a main course. Grilled Vegetables bring a smoky, satisfying flavor that can make any meal feel complete. Simple yet packed with flavor, they’re a great choice when you’re in the mood for something light but filling. These veggies stand strong on their own and pair well with any dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Parisian Potatoes
A little French flair makes all the difference! Parisian Potatoes are a side that could easily steal the spotlight. With their smooth texture and rich, buttery flavor, they’re perfect for those moments when you want something satisfying without the heaviness of a main course. These potatoes are simple yet indulgent, making them perfect on their own or alongside other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Cucumber Salad with Feta
It’s a cool, crisp side that adds freshness without the heaviness of traditional main courses. Cucumber Salad with Feta is a refreshing side that could easily take over as the main. The crunchy cucumbers and creamy feta make for a light yet satisfying dish that pairs well with almost anything. A great choice when you want something light but filling.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
The smoky flavor adds a unique twist that makes them stand out. Quick Smoked Tomatoes are a great side that brings a smoky depth without needing a main course. These tomatoes are rich in flavor and make a satisfying snack or accompaniment to any meal. They’re perfect for those days when you want something simple yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
This side is a meal-maker on its own, no need for a heavy main. Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots bring a touch of sweetness and warmth that can easily be the centerpiece of your meal. These tender, flavorful carrots are perfect when you want something hearty yet not too heavy. Their subtle sweetness and simple preparation make them a favorite at any table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Once you try it, you won’t need anything else. Smoked Mac & Cheese combines comfort and flavor in a way that could easily replace a main dish. The creamy cheese and smoky aroma are all you need to fill up without the heaviness of a traditional main course. It’s satisfying, hearty, and simple, making it the perfect side to bring to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
This dish is perfect when you need something simple but still crave a bit of indulgence. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta is a side that brings unexpected flavors and textures to the table. The earthy beet greens and savory pancetta make for a hearty combination that can easily be a meal in itself. It’s a side that proves greens can be more than just a filler—they’re a flavorful, satisfying option.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Grilled Ratatouille
Whether served with other dishes or alone, it’s sure to make your meal memorable. Grilled Ratatouille is a vibrant, hearty side that could easily take the place of a main course. The rich flavors and tender vegetables make it filling enough on its own. It’s smoky, savory, and perfectly charred, giving each bite a satisfying depth.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
These tots are filling enough to stand on their own, and they’re sure to become a favorite. Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are a side that feels like a full meal. These loaded tots are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for when you want something indulgent but don’t feel like preparing a heavy main.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
German Yellow Beans
Skip the heavy main course and enjoy these beans on their own for a light, fulfilling meal. German Yellow Beans are a side that’s simple yet satisfying. Their tender texture and mild flavor make them a perfect complement to any meal. They’re a hearty side that doesn’t need much to shine.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans) is a light yet hearty side that can easily fill the void of a missing main course. These tender beans are cooked to perfection with simple, fresh flavors that don’t need anything else. Perfect for a lighter meal, they’re satisfying without the heaviness. This side is a great way to enjoy a fulfilling meal without the fuss of a main course.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)
Ukrainian Potatoes
A perfect side when you’re craving something simple but satisfying. Ukrainian Potatoes are a classic side that’s hearty enough to make a meal on its own. With their rich texture and satisfying flavor, these potatoes will leave you full and content. They’re the kind of dish that doesn’t need any frills to make an impact.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
If you’re looking for a side with a little sweetness, Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze is a perfect choice. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the tangy lime and buttery glaze, making it a refreshing option. It’s light, flavorful, and satisfying enough to skip the main course. Whether served alone or alongside other dishes, it’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
The perfect side when you want something fresh, satisfying, and simple to prepare. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings the freshness of a salad with the smoky richness of tomatoes. This dish has enough flavor to stand alone as a meal. It’s light but filling, and the smoky touch adds a unique flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Creamed Corn
When you’re looking for a hearty side without the need for a main, Creamed Corn does the job. Its creamy texture and natural sweetness make it a perfect complement to any meal. This side can stand alone and fill you up, making it a great alternative to a heavy main course. It’s easy to prepare and brings comfort to the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn