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Didn’t Think Side Dishes Could Be This Amazing? These 31 Recipes Are Total Game-Changers

Think you’ve seen it all when it comes to side dishes? 31 side dishes will prove you wrong. From crispy to creamy, these recipes take your meal from “meh” to “wow” faster than you can say “seconds, please.” They’ll have you questioning if sides deserve their own spotlight. Who knew vegetables could be this exciting? Spoiler: They can!

Greek Green Beans served in a white bowl.
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans). Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Cauliflower with lemon and dill on a black board.
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A light yet flavorful side that pairs perfectly with a variety of mains. Cauliflower can be so much more than just a bland vegetable. Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill takes it to the next level, offering a fresh, zesty kick that enhances its natural flavor. The lemon adds brightness, while the dill gives it a herby depth. You’ll be reaching for this one again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Grilled Vegetables

A variety of grilled vegetables on a platter.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you want a side that’s both fresh and flavorful, Grilled Vegetables are the way to go. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness in each vegetable, while also adding a smoky depth. These vegetables are easy to prepare and pair well with almost anything you’re serving. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this side always hits the mark.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Parisian Potatoes

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

Looking for a side that feels a little fancy? Parisian Potatoes bring a touch of elegance to your meal without requiring any extra effort. These potatoes are cooked until perfectly tender, with a rich, buttery flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or just looking to upgrade your regular meal, these potatoes are sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

You’ll find yourself making this salad over and over. Cucumber Salad with Feta is the refreshing side you didn’t know you needed. The crisp cucumbers pair perfectly with the salty feta, making for a light and satisfying dish. It’s a great addition to any meal, offering balance to heavier dishes or a burst of freshness to lighter ones.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Smoked Cauliflower

Smoked cauliflower in a skillet on a wooden table.
Smoked Cauliflower. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cauliflower often gets overlooked, but this dish will make you rethink that. Smoked Cauliflower takes a simple veggie and turns it into a flavor-packed side. The smoky depth enhances the natural taste, giving you a satisfying alternative to traditional sides. Whether served as a main or a complement, this recipe is sure to impress with its unique flavor profile and texture.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes on a platter.
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sometimes the best things are simple, and these potatoes prove it. Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes brings together the perfect balance of crispy and creamy, with golden edges and a soft, fluffy interior. They’re the ideal side for just about any meal, providing a satisfying texture and rich flavor. These potatoes won’t just be an afterthought at your next meal—they’ll be the star.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Turkey Fried Rice

Top-down shot of Turkey Fried Rice on a black plate.
Turkey Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Leftover turkey? Turn it into something memorable. Turkey Fried Rice takes your everyday fried rice and gives it a whole new life with tender turkey, making it more than just a side. The flavors come together quickly and easily, creating a savory dish that’s perfect for any night. This recipe takes what would be a simple leftover and transforms it into a must-try meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

A plate of Mediterranean Couscous Salad With Smoked Tomatoes topped with parsley.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you need a refreshing, light side, this salad has you covered. Mediterranean Couscous Salad offers vibrant flavors that complement just about anything you’re serving. The couscous provides a hearty base, while the bright, fresh ingredients add a perfect balance. This dish is simple to make yet delivers big on flavor, making it a perfect choice for a healthy, satisfying side.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

A plate of mini flaky cheese biscuits and a cup of coffee.
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Biscuits are a comfort food, but these take it up a notch. Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits are a bite-sized wonder that combines soft, cheesy goodness with a crisp, flaky exterior. These little bites are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special gathering. With their irresistible flavor and texture, they’re bound to become a new favorite side.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Close-up shot of Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad on a white plate.
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This isn’t your average potato salad. Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad bring a smoky twist to the traditional side, with tender potatoes and charred asparagus coming together perfectly. The grilling adds a unique flavor to the vegetables, making this salad both hearty and refreshing. It’s a side that’s not only delicious but also looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for any dinner party or barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

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.

If you’ve never liked Brussels sprouts, Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds might change your mind. The brown butter adds richness, while the almonds give the dish a perfect crunch. This side is savory with just the right amount of nuttiness, transforming Brussels sprouts into a dish you’ll actually crave. It’s a simple yet elevated take on a veggie that’s often overlooked.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus on a white square plate.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

The smoky finish and tender texture make this asparagus the ideal side for just about any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Grilled Asparagus is all about simplicity and flavor. The grill brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus, while adding a subtle smoky flavor. This side is perfect for when you want something light yet satisfying to complement your main dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

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.

It’s simple to make, but the depth of flavor will have everyone asking for the recipe. Mexican Rice is anything but ordinary. This flavorful side is fluffy and packed with the perfect balance of spices, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving tacos, grilled meats, or just about anything else, this rice brings a touch of bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Three pieces of grilled cauliflower steaks on a black plate.
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you think cauliflower is boring, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks are here to prove you wrong. These hearty steaks are grilled to perfection, with a smoky flavor and satisfying texture. They’re the perfect side for a variety of mains and can even stand on their own as a vegetarian option. Once you try them, you’ll never think of cauliflower the same way again.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Spring salad with asparagus and potatoes on a white plate.
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This isn’t your usual salad. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes takes the season’s best vegetables and brings them together in one flavorful side. The addition of tender potatoes and fresh asparagus creates a satisfying dish that’s as hearty as it is light. It’s perfect for spring, offering a fresh, healthy option to balance out any heavier mains.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked tomatoes served on a white rectangular plate.
Quick Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Tomatoes are a versatile vegetable, but Quick Smoked Tomatoes add a whole new level of flavor. The smoky infusion gives them a rich depth that you won’t get from traditional preparations. They’re perfect for adding a unique twist to any dish, or just serving as a stand-alone side. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked on the smoky goodness that these tomatoes bring to the table.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Three ears of husked corn were arranged on a dark slate plate.
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Ordinary corn on the cob has nothing on this version. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob brings a smoky, charred flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. The grill not only adds a delightful texture but also infuses the corn with a savory depth you didn’t know you were missing. It’s a side that’s perfect for cookouts or any meal where you want a little extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a side that brings a little more to the table? Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp combines tender orzo and succulent shrimp, making it the perfect pairing for almost anything. The bright Mediterranean flavors are balanced with a satisfying texture, and it’s light yet filling. Whether you serve it with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own, this salad will soon become your go-to for fresh, flavorful meals.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This is mashed potatoes like you’ve never had before. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is creamy, rich, and topped with a crispy finish that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s a comforting dish that’s as familiar as it is delicious, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s been passed down through generations—it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Classic Mac and Cheese

A portion of Old Fashioned Mac & Cheese on a black plate.
Classic Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

There’s something special about a classic, and Classic Mac and Cheese is the perfect example. It’s creamy, cheesy, and rich, with a texture that can’t be beat. This side doesn’t just complement your meal, it enhances it, providing a comforting balance to any dish. Whether served at a casual gathering or a holiday feast, this mac and cheese will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

A bowl of Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you love the baby carrots at Cracker Barrel, Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots bring that exact flavor right to your kitchen. These carrots are cooked until perfectly tender, then glazed with a sweet, buttery sauce that makes them irresistible. This side is quick, easy, and the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. You won’t believe how simple it is to recreate this favorite dish at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A black bowl filled with tabbouleh salad with smoked tomatoes.
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe every time you need a flavorful, healthy side. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes gives the classic tabouli a delicious twist. The smoky tomatoes add a rich depth of flavor, making this salad even more exciting. It’s fresh, light, and the perfect side for a variety of meals, from Mediterranean dishes to grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Grilled Ratatouille

Close-up shot of Grilled Ratatouille on a black plate.
Grilled Ratatouille. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This grilled version of ratatouille will quickly become a go-to side for any meal. Grilled Ratatouille is a smoky take on the classic French dish, turning the vegetables into something truly special. Grilling brings out their natural sweetness, adding a new layer of flavor that makes this side stand out. It’s hearty, and flavorful, and pairs perfectly with a variety of mains.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re a fan of the loaded tots from Domino’s, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots will bring that same delicious flavor right to your home. Crispy tots are topped with cheddar cheese and bacon, making for an indulgent, irresistible side. These are perfect for snacking or serving alongside a main dish. Once you make them, you’ll never settle for regular tots again.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to the regular version. Smoked Mac & Cheese is a step up from your regular mac. The smoky flavor adds a new layer of richness to the creamy, cheesy sauce, making it a standout side dish. It’s not just mac and cheese—it’s a flavorful experience that pairs perfectly with almost any meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

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

If you’ve never tried beet greens, Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta will make you a believer. The savory pancetta complements the earthy flavor of the greens, giving this side a depth of flavor you won’t expect. It’s a unique dish that’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with other mains. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Ukrainian Potatoes

Ukrainian Potatoes on a white plate.
Ukrainian Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a comforting side that’s sure to please, Ukrainian Potatoes are the way to go. These potatoes are tender and flavorful, with a hearty texture that makes them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Simple yet satisfying, they’re a great choice for when you want something familiar but with a twist. This dish will quickly become a staple at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze

Four pieces of Grilled Pineapple With Buttery Lime Glaze on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re looking for a sweet side to finish your meal, Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze is a must-try. The pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, while the glaze adds a tangy sweetness that’s irresistible. This dish is a great way to round out a summer barbecue or any meal that could use a little extra sweetness. One bite, and you’ll be hooked on this tropical side.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze

German Yellow Beans

A bowl of German yellow beans on a wooden table.
German Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a hearty vegetable side, these beans will quickly become a favorite. German Yellow Beans are a simple yet flavorful side that’ll make any meal feel a bit more special. These tender beans have a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. They’re easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Bacon Fried Corn

Bacon Fried Corn in a serving bowl.
Bacon Fried Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Whether you’re grilling or making a simple weeknight dinner, this bacon-infused corn is the perfect addition. Bacon Fried Corn takes your regular corn to a whole new level. The bacon adds a savory richness, while the corn stays sweet and tender, creating the perfect balance of flavors. It’s an easy side to prepare, yet it delivers big on taste.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)

Greek Green Beans served in a white bowl.
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans). Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Once you try it, you’ll see just how delicious green beans can be. Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans) takes green beans to a whole new level with rich, savory flavors. This Greek dish adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to find in traditional green bean preparations. It’s a comforting side that goes great with meats or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)

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