Side dishes often get the short end of the stick, quietly sitting off to the side while the main course takes all the credit. But these 29 side dishes flip the script by bringing serious flavor and personality to your plate. They’re the kind of dishes that make you forget the “main” meal, without ever demanding the spotlight. These sides will quietly steal the show, and probably your leftovers.
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
When it comes to side dishes, Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill brings brightness without being pushy. It fits in quietly alongside bigger flavors and doesn’t compete, yet it won’t get lost. Clean, fresh profile makes it versatile enough to work with a wide variety of mains. If you want something simple that still adds a spark, this one’s worth a spot on your list.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Sautéed greens often don’t get credit they deserve, but these beet greens hold their own. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta bring a bit of earthiness that contrasts nicely with richer plates. They add texture and depth without trying to steal show. It’s a side that quietly makes everything on your plate better.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
The Backyard Table
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Buy Now!Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
It’s easy to overlook side when main dish is loud, but Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds quietly make their case. These sprouts bring a mix of textures that add interest to any meal without demanding attention. They hold their own and offer enough flavor to make you wonder why you ever wrote off sprouts. Perfect for those moments when you want something different but not complicated.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Mac and cheese usually grabs spotlight, but this version is designed as a side that holds its ground. Smoked Mac & Cheese offers a smoky twist that pairs well with nearly anything on your plate. It’s creamy and comforting but never feels like it’s trying too hard. This one will likely cause some table debates over which side to go back for first.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Grilled Ratatouille
Ratatouille often plays second fiddle, but this grilled version changes game. It balances smoky and fresh notes that complement almost any meal without stealing spotlight. Mix of textures keeps things interesting without overwhelming plate. It’s a reliable choice when you want a side that adds some personality without drama.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Ukrainian Potatoes
Simple but far from boring, Ukrainian Potatoes are the kind of side that proves straightforward can be satisfying. They fit in seamlessly with classic meals while adding a subtle punch that you won’t forget. These potatoes are filling and flavorful without calling attention away from main course. They’re a solid choice when you want comfort with a little edge.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Cheese biscuits often get treated as just a bread option, but these minis bring more to plate. Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits offer a comforting, flaky texture that invites second helpings. They hold up well with hearty mains or lighter dishes alike, making them a flexible side. It’s a simple way to add something satisfying without extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
This salad fits in nicely with seasonal menus and offers something different from usual. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes brings freshness and subtle complexity to your plate without trying to take over. It’s light but satisfying, which makes it a great partner for a variety of mains. This one’s a reminder that sides can be both simple and interesting.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Smoked Cauliflower
Cauliflower often flies under radar, but smoked version brings unexpected depth. Smoked Cauliflower balances smoky flavor with a texture that fits well next to any main. It adds a hint of richness without overshadowing the rest of the plate. A reliable way to change up your usual side routine.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Mexican Rice
Rice is usually just a background player, but this version makes a statement without shouting. Mexican Rice has enough flavor to keep things interesting but stays in support of main dish. It’s reliable and filling, the kind of side that everyone appreciates. This recipe makes rice feel like a choice, not an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Smashed potatoes usually feel like a comforting classic, but this version adds a bit of texture without fuss. Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes bring a balance of crispy edges and tender centers that pair well with any protein. They’re a no-nonsense side that’s hard not to like. Expect these to get plenty of attention at table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Cucumber Salad with Feta
Not all sides need to be warm to win your approval. Cucumber Salad with Feta brings a crisp and cool contrast that works surprisingly well alongside hot dishes. It’s refreshing without being plain, making it a great pick for balancing heavier mains. This salad might just make you rethink what a side can bring to table.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob usually feels like a classic side, but when it’s grilled and smoked, it steps up. This version brings an added layer of flavor that pairs well with all kinds of meals. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and never outshines main but always enhances experience. If you want a side that hits all the right notes, this one’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Grain salads can be tricky, but this version keeps things interesting without overcomplicating. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes balances freshness with a subtle smoky note that complements more robust dishes. It’s light enough to avoid heaviness but still satisfying in its own right. This salad makes a good case for sides that aren’t just filler.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Pineapple on its own can be sweet and one-dimensional, but grilling adds another layer that fits nicely as side. Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze brings just enough contrast to cut through heavier dishes without stealing show. It’s a refreshing, unexpected choice that still feels like a side. Great for when you want to mix things up without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
If you think tots are just for snacking, think again. Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots prove they can hang with dinner. They bring a satisfying crunch and a flavor combo that’s hard to beat as a side dish. Expect these to disappear fast, no matter what else is on the table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Potato salad and grilled asparagus join forces to make a side that’s more than sum of its parts. Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad offers a blend of textures and flavors that support main without clashing. It’s fresh enough to avoid heaviness but filling enough to satisfy. This one proves sides don’t have to compete to impress.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Baby carrots can feel like filler, but this copycat version brings a fresh take that fits on any plate. Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots add a sweet and simple balance to heavier mains. They’re straightforward and approachable without unnecessary fuss. A solid side for when you want familiar without boring.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Cauliflower gets a serious upgrade when grilled into steaks, becoming a side that stands on its own. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks balance smoky and hearty without overwhelming plate. They add interest and a little heft to meals that need a reliable partner. Great for when you want a side that feels substantial but not fussy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Turkey Fried Rice
Fried rice is usually a main or side that plays it safe, but this version balances both worlds. Turkey Fried Rice offers enough substance to feel substantial but still works well as a supporting dish. It’s a good option for adding flavor without overwhelming rest of meal. This one proves that rice can be both reliable and worth repeating.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Grilled Vegetables
Sometimes simplest things make biggest difference. Grilled Vegetables bring a straightforward approach that complements wide range of meals. They add a smoky note and a bit of texture without fuss or drama. When you want something easy that plays well with others, this is a solid pick.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Parisian Potatoes
These potatoes might sound fancy, but they’re all about straightforward satisfaction. Parisian Potatoes have a texture that fits well alongside mains without taking over plate. They offer a little something extra without requiring extra effort. Perfect when you want a reliable side that still feels like a choice.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn walks a fine line between side and comfort food, and this version does it well. It adds richness and smoothness without overshadowing main dish. Creamed Corn holds its place as a classic that brings balance to meal. It’s a good reminder that sometimes simple is enough.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Tomatoes might seem simple, but smoking them adds a layer that makes difference. Quick Smoked Tomatoes offer a balance of smoky and fresh notes that complement almost any dish. They bring a little unexpected twist without stealing spotlight. It’s a smart side when you want something different without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a classic side for a reason—it’s easy and reliable. This version keeps things simple but adds a smoky note that pairs well with wide range of mains. Grilled Asparagus brings a fresh texture without overwhelming plate. Perfect when you want a no-nonsense side that fits most menus.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Orzo salad often feels like a side that’s trying too hard, but this Mediterranean take balances flavor and simplicity. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp brings enough substance to stand alongside heartier mains without stealing show. It’s a refreshing, satisfying option for when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Mashed potatoes often come with side of nostalgia, and this casserole keeps that feeling alive. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole adds a bit more substance without complicating classic comfort. It fits in with hearty meals while offering enough to go around. It’s a side that feels familiar but earned a permanent place on table.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Grain salads don’t have to be boring, and this Mediterranean take proves it. Mediterranean Couscous Salad offers enough flavor complexity to hold its own without overshadowing mains. It’s versatile, filling, and fits a variety of menus. This side makes grain salad feel like a thoughtful choice rather than an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
German Yellow Beans
Beans often get overlooked, but these bring a fresh and simple touch to any meal. German Yellow Beans have a clean profile that pairs well with richer mains without getting lost. They’re a practical choice that adds variety without fuss. If you want a side that’s straightforward and dependable, this fits bill.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans