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13 Side Dishes That Are Perfect for Weeknights, Dinner Parties, or Any Meal in Between

Weeknights and special dinners alike benefit from a great side dish, and this collection offers something for every need. They’re easy to prepare and versatile enough to fit into any menu. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a lively dinner party, these dishes are the perfect complement to your main course.

Smoked Creamed Corn in a black skillet.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Greek Green Beans

Greek Green Beans served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Green Beans. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

A classic dish, Greek Green Beans bring a touch of Mediterranean flair to your dinner table. Whether paired with a main dish or served as a standalone, these beans offer a comforting side that complements any meal. Easy to prepare on a busy weeknight, they promise to be a hit at your next dinner party. Enjoy the warmth and comfort they bring to your dining experience without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans

Mexican Rice

A plate of Mexican rice garnished with chopped green onions and herbs served with a spoon.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you’re aiming to add some excitement to your meal, Mexican Rice might just be the ticket. This side dish is versatile, pairing well with everything from tacos to grilled chicken. Its ease of preparation makes it a practical choice for any day of the week. Let your dinner guests or family members bask in the rich flavors it brings to your table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Parisian Potatoes

A spoon lifts several Parisian potatoes from a black skillet filled with more Parisian potatoes.
Parisian Potatoes. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a hint of French cuisine, Parisian Potatoes are an excellent choice. These potatoes offer a crispy outside and a tender inside, making them irresistible. They’re simple enough to whip up on a weeknight but sophisticated enough to impress any soiree. This dish is sure to become a staple in your meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta on a white plate.
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta offer a wonderful way to use the entirety of your beets. This dish combines the hearty texture of the greens with the savory flavor of pancetta. It’s a quick side dish option that packs a nutritional punch. Serve this to add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

A white bowl filled with seasoned roasted sweet potato cubes, garnished with chopped herbs, with a metal serving spoon on the side and a printed napkin partially visible.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The perfect addition for those seeking a healthier side dish option is Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Utilizing an air fryer, this recipe provides a crispy and delicious outcome with minimal oil. It’s a straightforward recipe that can easily be made during the busiest of weeknights. Share the warmth of these sweet potato cubes with your loved ones for a cozy meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nothing says comfort like a bowl of Chicken Fried Rice. This dish serves as a fulfilling side or a main course, depending on your appetite. It’s an excellent way to repurpose leftovers into something new and exciting. Gather around the table for a casual dinner that’s both fulfilling and heartwarming.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Au Gratin Potato Stacks take the decadence of traditional au gratin potatoes and deliver it in an individual serving size. This innovative approach to a classic dish not only looks impressive but tastes phenomenal. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, these potato stacks will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Sausage Stuffing

Sausage stuffing in a red pot.
Sausage Stuffing. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Inject a bit of holiday spirit into your dinners with Sausage Stuffing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy side for your family meal, this stuffing adds a hearty element. The blend of spices and textures makes it a memorable addition to any table. Enjoy the comforting embrace of this classic side dish.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing

Fried Tomatillos

Fried Tomatillos in a black cast iron pan.
Fried Tomatillos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fried Tomatillos can add an unexpected twist to your meal. This unique side dish introduces a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with richer main courses. Quick to fry up, they offer a delicious crunch that’s hard to resist. Introduce your guests to the charm of fried tomatillos at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enhance your meal with Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. This combination transforms the humble Brussels sprout to new heights, adding texture and a nutty flavor that complements many dishes. Not only is it a visually appealing side, but it also brings a comforting element to any meal. Perfect for those who appreciate the details in their dish.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

Three pieces of pulled pork stuffed cornbread on a white plate.
Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread is a heartwarming twist on traditional cornbread. This side dish is filling enough to be a meal on its own but also pairs beautifully with salads or soups. Offering a savory and sweet combination, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy sharing this innovative dish with friends and family alike.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Stuffed Cornbread

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

A plate of asparagus with mascarpone and lemon.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Stand out as a simple yet sophisticated side with Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. The creamy mascarpone enhances the natural flavors of the asparagus, creating a dish that’s both refined and comforting. Suitable for a quiet dinner at home or entertaining guests, it’s effortlessly elegant. This dish is sure to garner compliments from anyone who tries it.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Creamed Corn

Smoked Creamed Corn in a black skillet.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamed Corn is a classic comfort food that deserves a spot on your dinner table. Its creamy texture and sweet taste make it an ideal companion to more robust flavors. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, it serves as a comforting reminder of home-cooked meals. Let this dish warm your heart and your stomach during any meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

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