No Need for Fancy Cooking—These 31 Sides Keep It Simple and Satisfying

Not every side dish needs a story. These 31 recipes skip the extra steps, the unnecessary garnishes, and the idea that a vegetable needs a five-ingredient glaze to be good. Some meals just need a solid backup, and these dishes show up, do their job, and don’t make a fuss. They’re easy to throw together, taste great without the effort, and won’t have anyone wondering, “How long is this going to take?” That’s a win for everyone.

Smoked Cauliflower

Cauliflower doesn’t have to be boring, and Smoked Cauliflower proves that. With a little time the smoker takes this simple vegetable and turns it into something worth eating. No need for extra seasonings or complicated prep—it holds its own just fine. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as a stand-alone side, it’s a good reason to fire up the smoker. Simple, smoky, and actually worth making.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Some people throw out beet greens, but Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta proves they shouldn’t. Quick to cook, easy to flavor, and way better than expected, this side makes good use of something usually ignored. No fancy sauces or unnecessary steps—just a straightforward way to get more greens on the plate. Perfect for anyone who wants something different without extra effort. A side that’s practical and actually good.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower can do more than just sit on the side, and Grilled Cauliflower Steaks make that clear. No need for fancy seasoning or complicated prep—just a quick grill and they’re ready to go. They’re hearty enough to hold their own but still light enough to pair with anything. Perfect for those looking for a simple, satisfying side without extra work. A great reason to fire up the grill for something other than meat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Some salads try too hard, but this one keeps things simple. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes doesn’t need fancy toppings or complicated dressings to work. It’s fresh, light, and a great way to add something green to the table without overthinking it. Perfect for a quick side that actually feels like it belongs next to a meal. No extra steps, just a solid mix of ingredients that work well together.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Mexican Rice

Not all rice needs to be plain, and Mexican Rice proves it. It’s simple enough to throw together without a second thought but brings just enough flavor to make dinner feel complete. No need for extra ingredients or over-the-top seasoning—this dish gets the job done with minimal effort. It’s the kind of side that works with almost anything and doesn’t require a long list of steps. Perfect for those nights when “easy” is the main goal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Ukrainian Potatoes

Some potato dishes are overcomplicated, but Ukrainian Potatoes keep things straightforward. No excessive chopping, no hard-to-find ingredients, just a solid way to make potatoes that work with any meal. They come together quickly, require no special skills, and somehow taste better than they should for how simple they are. Whether paired with a hearty main or enjoyed on their own, they prove that sometimes the best sides don’t need much. Just potatoes done right.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Turkey Fried Rice

Leftover turkey gets a second life with Turkey Fried Rice, and it doesn’t take much effort to make it happen. This dish skips the fancy techniques and sticks to what works—simple flavors and a quick cooking time. It’s the kind of side that feels like a meal but doesn’t take over the plate. Perfect for using up what’s in the fridge without making it feel like a repeat dinner. Just quick, easy, and done in no time.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice

Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Some salads try too hard, but Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad keep things simple. No need for complex dressings or a long list of ingredients—this is just a straightforward mix that works. The asparagus adds some crunch, the potatoes keep it hearty, and the whole thing comes together without any fuss. Great for grilling season or anytime something fresh but filling is needed. It’s a salad that actually feels like a side dish, not an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Some sides are all about balance, and Mediterranean Couscous Salad nails it. Light but filling, simple but flavorful, it’s proof that a few ingredients can go a long way. No heavy sauces or unnecessary extras—just a clean, easy dish that fits in with whatever’s on the table. Great for when a salad needs to be more than just lettuce and dressing. It’s quick, effortless, and works every time.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Sometimes the easiest salads are the best, and Cucumber Salad with Feta is proof. No complicated dressing, no unnecessary toppings—just a simple mix that works. It’s cool, refreshing, and comes together in no time. Perfect for when a meal needs something light without adding extra effort. A go-to side that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels sprouts don’t need much, and Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds prove it. No complicated glaze, no unnecessary toppings—just a simple way to make them taste better. They’re crispy, nutty, and come together fast. Perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy Brussels sprouts without overthinking it. A solid side that actually gets eaten.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Grilled Ratatouille

Some sides take effort, but Grilled Ratatouille isn’t one of them. No need for layering or baking—this version keeps things simple by throwing everything on the grill. The result? A smoky, satisfying mix that works with anything. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for grilling season. An easy way to enjoy a classic dish without the usual work.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille

Grilled Vegetables

Sometimes the best sides are the simplest, and Grilled Vegetables prove that. No sauces, no complicated prep—just fresh veggies cooked the way they should be. They’re smoky, slightly charred, and go with absolutely everything. Perfect for adding something light to the plate without extra effort. A go-to side that’s always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

Some sides steal the show, and Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits might be one of them. No need for complicated techniques or long ingredient lists—these come together quickly and do exactly what they should. They’re buttery, cheesy, and just the right size for grabbing more than one. Perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or just eating on their own. A simple, no-fuss side that works every time.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Sometimes crispy potatoes take too much work, but Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes make it easy. No deep frying, no messy oil, just a straightforward way to get golden, crunchy potatoes without the hassle. They cook fast, require minimal effort, and go with just about anything. Perfect for when a meal needs something satisfying but not complicated. Crispy, simple, and done in no time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Some vegetables need a little help, and Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill gets just enough without overdoing it. There’s no heavy sauce or unnecessary steps—just a clean, fresh side that actually works. It’s light enough to fit with any meal but flavorful enough to not be forgettable. Great for when cauliflower needs to be something other than plain. A simple way to keep things interesting without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

These aren’t just any tots—Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots take things up a notch without extra work. No need for fancy techniques or a long prep time—just a few simple steps and they’re good to go. They’re crispy, cheesy, and have just enough bacon to keep things interesting. Great as a side, a snack, or something to share. No one’s stopping at just one.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Some salads can be a little dull, but Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes keeps things interesting. It’s fresh, simple, and gets a little extra depth from the smoked tomatoes. No fancy dressings or extra steps—just a straightforward mix that works. Great for pairing with grilled meats or as a light side on its own. A salad that actually brings something to the table.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Parisian Potatoes

Potatoes don’t need much to be good, and Parisian Potatoes prove that. No heavy sauces, no unnecessary toppings—just a simple way to make them crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re great next to a main dish or on their own when something comforting is needed. Perfect for busy nights or when a meal needs a solid side. Just good potatoes, done right.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes

Classic Mac and Cheese

Some dishes don’t need a twist, and Classic Mac and Cheese is one of them. No extra ingredients, no complicated techniques—just a creamy, cheesy dish that always delivers. It’s rich without being overdone and comes together without a headache. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or any time mac and cheese is the right answer. A side that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese

Smoked Mac & Cheese

Mac and cheese doesn’t need much improvement, but Smoked Mac & Cheese makes a good case for it. No extra steps, no complicated ingredients—just a classic dish with a smoky twist. It’s creamy, comforting, and somehow even better with a little time on the smoker. Great for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or anytime mac and cheese needs an upgrade. Simple, satisfying, and worth the minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is already good, but Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob makes it even better. No need for heavy seasonings or extra toppings—just the right amount of smoke to bring out its natural sweetness. It’s easy to throw on the grill and pairs with anything. Perfect for cookouts, quick dinners, or just because. A side that’s as simple as it gets but never boring.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Tomatoes don’t usually get this treatment, but Quick Smoked Tomatoes proves they should. No long roasting, no complicated seasoning—just a little time on the smoker to bring out their best. They’re juicy, and slightly smoky, and go with everything from grilled meats to pasta. Perfect for when a dish needs a little something extra without extra work. A small step that makes a big difference.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Creamed Corn

Some sides are all about comfort, and Creamed Corn fits the bill. No unnecessary ingredients, no complicated prep—just a creamy, slightly sweet dish that works with almost anything. It’s smooth, satisfying, and easy to make without a second thought. Perfect for barbecue nights, family dinners, or any time a simple side is needed. A classic that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Carrots don’t have to be boring, and Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots prove that. No complicated prep, no extra steps—just a straightforward way to make them soft, a little sweet, and worth eating. They work with almost any meal and don’t require much effort. Perfect for when a vegetable side is needed without extra work. A classic that always works.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Some pasta salads are heavy, but Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp keeps it light. No creamy dressing, no unnecessary add-ins—just a fresh, easy mix that works. It’s quick to throw together and holds up well for meals that need a side with a little substance. Great for summer dinners or as a make-ahead option. A simple salad that makes sense.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

German Yellow Beans

Beans don’t always get much attention, but German Yellow Beans make a case for them. No heavy sauces, no over-the-top seasonings—just a clean, simple dish that works. They’re tender, easy to make, and go with just about anything. Perfect for when a meal needs a vegetable without extra effort. A side that does its job without fuss.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Grilled Asparagus

Asparagus doesn’t need much, and Grilled Asparagus proves it. No sauces, no complicated prep—just a quick grill and it’s ready to go. It’s crisp, slightly smoky, and fits with just about any meal. Perfect for when a simple side is all that’s needed. A no-fuss way to enjoy a classic vegetable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Mashed potatoes are already great, but Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole takes it up a notch. No extra effort, no unnecessary steps—just a creamy, comforting dish that holds its own. It’s smooth, a little rich, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Great for holidays, busy weeknights, or any time mashed potatoes need a little upgrade. A side that always gets finished.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze

Some sides lean sweet, and Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze does it right. No heavy toppings, no complicated flavors—just a little glaze to bring out what’s already good. It’s caramelized, a little tangy, and pairs surprisingly well with grilled meats. Perfect for barbecue nights or when something fresh is needed. A simple side that feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze

Greek Green Beans

Green beans can be forgettable, but Greek Green Beans make them worth serving. No plain steaming, no bland seasoning—just a straightforward way to give them a little something extra. They’re soft, flavorful, and pair well with any meal. Great for when a vegetable side needs to be more than an afterthought. A simple way to make green beans actually enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans