Side dishes can make or break a meal, and these 17 options are the MVPs of the dining table. From simple classics to bold creations, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Think of them as the backup singers who steal the show—or in this case, the last bite. With these dishes, you might find yourself accidentally overshadowing the main course. Warning: Family members may develop a newfound obsession with “just the sides.”
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Expect plenty of requests for the recipe. Grilled Elote Corn Ribs bring a fun twist to traditional corn on the cob, offering a mess-free, flavorful experience. These corn ribs pack all the flavor of elote but are easier to eat and share. They’re smoky, spicy, and perfect for snacking or adding to a larger spread. Whether you’re serving them at a BBQ or family gathering, they’ll be the first to go.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
If you’ve never tried Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta, you’re missing out on a side that’s both earthy and rich. It’s a great way to use beet greens in a way that highlights their natural flavor. The pancetta adds just the right amount of salt and depth, creating a perfect balance. This dish is an easy way to sneak some extra greens onto the plate without anyone complaining. The flavor combination is one people keep coming back for.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Grilled Ratatouille
This ratatouille is great for filling up the plate with vibrant colors and tastes, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Grilled Ratatouille transforms the usual veggie mix into a smoky, flavor-packed side that stands out. Grilling brings out the best in vegetables, adding a depth of flavor that can’t be replicated. It’s a perfect side for those who want something hearty but not too heavy. It’s also an easy way to sneak more vegetables onto the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
There’s something magical about Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits—their soft, buttery layers make them irresistible. They’re the kind of side dish that everyone loves to grab and enjoy with a meal or on their own. These biscuits have the perfect balance of crunch on the outside and fluffiness inside. Whether served alongside a hearty main or as an appetizer, they’re always a hit. Be warned: they disappear fast, so make plenty.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Prepare for compliments from every corner of the table. Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze is the perfect sweet-and-savory side that adds a tropical flair to any meal. The caramelized pineapple becomes irresistibly juicy and flavorful, especially with the glaze that ties it all together. This dish serves as a delicious bridge between main courses and desserts. You might even find yourself serving it on its own, as it’s the kind of side that’s just too good to share.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Greek Green Beans
This dish complements almost any main course, balancing out heavier dishes with its fresh, savory profile. Greek Green Beans turns your regular vegetable side into something a little more exciting. It’s packed with flavor and adds a healthy touch to the meal without skimping on taste. You’ll find your family asking for this one again and again, making it a regular at the table. It’s simple yet always hits the mark.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Everyone will want the recipe, guaranteed. Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad give the classic potato salad a smoky twist. The grilling adds depth to the flavors, turning the veggies into a savory, satisfying side. It’s hearty enough to be filling but light enough to complement any main dish. This salad can stand alone or act as the perfect side for BBQs or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Easy Mexican Rice
This rice might just become your go-to side for every occasion, especially since it’s simple to make and even easier to eat. Easy Mexican Rice is the ideal side to complement any main dish, soaking up sauces without losing its texture. It adds just the right amount of flavor to keep things exciting without overwhelming the plate. Whether it’s part of a taco night or served with grilled meats, it’s always a hit. No wonder it’s a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice
Grilled Asparagus
A simple yet satisfying way to enjoy this vegetable in a new light. Grilled Asparagus is the perfect side to add a bit of sophistication to any meal without much effort. The grilling process enhances its natural flavor, creating a smoky, crispy exterior that pairs well with anything. This side dish is versatile and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. People will be asking for more, without a doubt.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Mexican Rice
A staple for a reason, it’s the side that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Mexican Rice is the type of side dish that goes with almost everything, enhancing any meal with its rich, flavorful base. It’s simple to make but packs in the flavor, making it a standout at the table. Whether served with a protein or on its own, this rice can hold its own. You’ll definitely want to double the recipe—people can’t get enough.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
It’s hard to imagine any meal without this as a staple. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob brings out the natural sweetness of corn with a smoky, savory twist. It’s the kind of side dish that’s perfect for a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner. The grill gives it a unique flavor that plain corn just can’t compete with. Expect messy hands, empty cobs, and a few smiles of satisfaction from your guests.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans
Expect to see clean plates and requests for more. Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that turns green beans into something truly special. The slow-cooked flavors make this side dish hearty and satisfying, perfect alongside any protein. It’s simple yet flavorful, providing the ideal balance for a meal. This dish proves that even basic vegetables can become a star, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Be ready for them to become a crowd favorite. Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes take potatoes to the next level with a crispy, smoky exterior and a soft, fluffy inside. They’re perfect for anyone who loves a little crunch with their potatoes. The air fryer makes them easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor or texture. These potatoes can be served with almost anything, whether it’s a grilled steak or a veggie dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic that never goes out of style, adding a crisp and tangy bite to your meal. It’s the ideal side for balancing out richer dishes with its refreshing crunch. This dish pairs well with everything, from grilled meats to sandwiches, and adds a satisfying texture to the plate. It’s easy to prepare in advance, making it a hassle-free addition to any dinner. You’ll likely find everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Great for anyone looking for a salad that’s hearty but not overwhelming. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes brings together fresh, crisp vegetables for a light yet satisfying side. It’s perfect for a refreshing addition to any meal, especially when the weather starts to warm up. The balance of textures keeps every bite interesting. It’s easy to prepare, and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Grilled Vegetables
Expect to hear “more, please” with every serving. Grilled Vegetables are a go-to side dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The grill enhances the natural sweetness of the veggies while adding a smoky depth that makes them irresistible. They complement almost any main course and are great for outdoor gatherings. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—it’s just vegetables, but they taste so much better when grilled.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
People will scrape the sides clean, hoping for just one more bite. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole turns a simple dish into something everyone fights over. It’s packed with flavor, providing a creamy, comforting side that’s hard to resist. The casserole dish keeps everything warm, making it perfect for family gatherings. This is the kind of side that becomes the favorite, leaving little room for anything else on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole