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17 Side Dishes That Won’t Get Pushed Around The Plate

Side dishes often get overlooked, but these recipes are here to change that. Designed to stand out and bring balance to any meal, they offer options that are both practical and full of appeal. Perfect for winter dinners, these sides add a little something extra to the table, making sure they get the attention they deserve.

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

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green Beans served in a white bowl.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

No one’s leaving Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans untouched—this side means business. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth to the table without stealing the spotlight. Perfect for making ahead, it’ll free up your time while still delivering that homey vibe. When it’s on the plate, you know everyone’s coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

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

If you’re planning to impress your dinner guests, Au Gratin Potato Stacks could be your secret weapon. These individual portions are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. They are convenient to serve alongside any main dish and ensure everyone gets an equally cheesy, crunchy slice. Each bite brings a sense of comfort that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled corn on the cob pieces topped with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro, served on a black slate plate with lime wedges on the side.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Transform your corn experience with Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. This unique take on a classic side turns corn into something extraordinary, with a char that adds depth to the flavor. Easy to pick up and eat, they make for a fun, interactive side dish. Ideal for cozy evenings at home, they bring a joyful twist to your meal, leaving everyone craving for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

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

Don’t discard those beet greens; turn them into Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta for a highly nutritious and flavorful dish. This combo creates a side dish that stands out for its hearty flavors, complementing any main course. It’s a simple way to add a dash of sophistication to your dinner table. Your plate will feel incomplete without this vibrant, mouth-watering addition.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

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 touch of elegance on your dinner table, Parisian Potatoes will not disappoint. They have a crisp exterior that gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth interior, making them irresistible. These potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes, enhancing your meal without overpowering it. It’s an effortless way to bring a bit of French flair to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes

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.

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp brings a refreshing and light option to the side dish game. It combines the heartiness of pasta with the lightness of a salad for a balanced dish. Perfect for those who love a bit of seafood with their meal, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that makes every bite more enjoyable than the last.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Smoked Brussels Sprouts with bacon on a white plate.
Smoked Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You’re in for a treat that transforms the humble vegetable into a smoky, irresistible side with Smoked Brussels Sprouts. This dish will change the minds of even the staunchest sprout skeptics. Smoky and crunchy, they are a perfect match for heartier winter dishes, adding a burst of flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan

Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan on a white platter.
Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan is a refreshing side that effortlessly accompanies any main dish. Its simplicity highlights the natural flavors of the asparagus, while lemon and Parmesan add a refreshing twist. Ideal for those seeking something light yet flavorful, it’s a harmonious addition to any meal. This side dish is all about enhancing the meal without complicating flavors.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan

Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan

A plate of roasted kohlrabi with parmesan cheese on a wooden table.
Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re after something a bit different, Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan could be your go-to. This dish turns the kohlrabi into a tender, cheesy treat that’s hard to resist. It’s a great way to introduce new vegetables to your diet in a delicious way. With each bite, you get a comforting warmth that only oven-roasted sides can offer, making every meal feel more like home.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan

Ukrainian Potatoes

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

Warm up your meals with Ukrainian Potatoes. This side dish brings heartiness and warmth to the table, making every meal feel like a cozy gathering. It merges well with various main courses, offering a versatile option for any meal. Not only does it promise comfort with every spoonful, but it also adds a fulfilling depth to your dining experience, ensuring no leftovers will be seen.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

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.

Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes is a vibrant addition that brings a fresh perspective to what a side dish can be. Even in colder months, its flavors remain appealing, offering a balance to heavier meals. This salad combines different textures for a unique mouthfeel. It’s a straightforward dish that complements the main course, making the entire meal feel more rounded and complete.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Corn Fritters

Corn fritters in a black cast iron pan.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Corn Fritters offer a delicious crunch that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. They work as a wonderful side, adding a textural contrast to your meal. These fritters are not just about taste but also about bringing joy through food. With their golden exterior and soft interior, they promise to make your mealtime a bit more exciting and far from ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Smoked Mac & Cheese

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

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Smoked Mac & Cheese. This isn’t just another side dish; it’s a main event in its own right, bringing a deeply comforting and hearty element to the table. The smoky flavor adds an unexpected twist to a classic favorite. It’s perfect for those colder nights when you’re craving something that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Air Fryer Corn on The Cob

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob with slices of butter on top.
Air Fryer Corn on The Cob. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Corn on The Cob introduces a healthier way to enjoy this traditional side, without sacrificing taste or texture. It’s a quick method that delivers consistently delicious results. Perfect for when you want to keep things simple yet satisfying, this dish brings a smile to everyone’s face. It exemplifies how easy it can be to prepare a dish that’s appreciated by all.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on The Cob

Easy Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice with a slice of lime on a black bowl.
Easy Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

You can’t go wrong with Easy Mexican Rice when you’re looking for a side that’s both uncomplicated and full of flavor. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simple cooking, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Corn on the cob with garlic parmesan on a black plate.
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs take the beloved corn rib trend to new heights with a cheesy, garlicky twist. Each bite is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something incredibly fulfilling. They’re perfect for those who love to experiment with flavors and textures. Not only do they offer a new way to enjoy corn, but they also guarantee an explosion of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

German Yellow Beans

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

For a hearty and wholesome addition to your meal, German Yellow Beans are a must-try. This dish brings a traditional taste to your table, offering a comforting and satisfying side. It’s a wonderful companion to any main course, adding a touch of heartiness without overwhelming the palate. With each spoonful, you get a sense of home-style cooking that enriches your mealtime experience.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

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