Not all side dishes get equal attention, but they should. A good one makes the meal feel complete, and this list of 31 options ensures there’s something for every craving. From light and crisp to rich and filling, these sides know how to play their part. Whether they’re balancing out bold flavors or just making sure no one leaves hungry, they prove that what’s on the side matters just as much as what’s in the center of the plate.
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Cauliflower proves once again that it doesn’t need much to be a standout. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks bring a smoky, hearty element to any plate, making them a great choice for meat-lovers and veggie fans alike. With a charred exterior and a tender center, they hold up well next to bold flavors. Whether topped with sauces, served with grains, or just enjoyed on their own, they never feel like an afterthought. If you’re looking for a vegetable that can hold its own on the grill, this is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
A good side dish should bring balance to the meal, and Mediterranean Couscous Salad does just that. With a light yet satisfying texture, it’s the kind of dish that works with just about anything. Whether served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even on its own, it’s packed with enough flavor to stand out. The mix of textures keeps things interesting without feeling heavy. This is one of those sides that always disappears first at the table.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with flavor, Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are hard to resist. These little bites bring a satisfying crunch while still keeping that classic fluffy potato texture. They fit in with just about any meal, whether it’s something grilled, roasted, or even just a quick snack. Easy to grab, easy to love, and definitely easy to finish, they’ll have everyone reaching for more. If you were looking for an excuse to eat more potatoes, here it is.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Mexican Rice
A good side dish can turn a simple meal into something special, and Mexican Rice does exactly that. With bold flavors and just the right texture, it works as the perfect companion to grilled meats, tacos, or even a spoon on its own. It’s light enough to let the main dish shine but flavorful enough to stand out. Whether on a weeknight table or part of a big feast, it always brings something extra to the plate. This is the kind of rice that doesn’t get left behind.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Ukrainian Potatoes
There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy potatoes, but this version knows how to stand out. Ukrainian Potatoes bring comfort and heartiness, making them a solid choice for any meal. With a perfect mix of crispy edges and soft centers, they strike the right balance of texture in every bite. Whether paired with roasted meats or served alongside something lighter, they hold their own on the plate. Just be ready for everyone to ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Smoked Cauliflower
Cauliflower doesn’t have to be boring, and this version proves it. Smoked Cauliflower takes a simple vegetable and turns it into something bold, rich, and completely satisfying. The smoky flavor adds depth, making it a great match for grilled meats, hearty mains, or even as a standalone dish. It’s got just enough bite to keep things interesting while staying light enough to complement any meal. You might not have thought cauliflower could be this good, but here we are.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Greens don’t always get the spotlight, but Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta makes a strong case for why they should. The balance of rich, savory flavors and tender greens makes this side both satisfying and surprisingly hearty. It’s a great way to add something vibrant and flavorful to any plate without taking over the meal. Perfect with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as a topping for grains, it fits just about anywhere. Don’t be surprised if these greens get more attention than the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Cucumber Salad with Feta
A crisp, refreshing side can do wonders for any meal, and Cucumber Salad with Feta knows exactly how to bring that balance. With a combination of cool, crunchy textures and just the right amount of richness, it’s a great contrast to heartier dishes. Whether served with grilled meats, seafood, or even a simple sandwich, it always fits right in. Light yet satisfying, it adds a fresh element to the table without feeling like an afterthought. If you’re looking for a side that keeps things bright and easy, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Some salads are all about freshness, and Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes makes that its mission. With a combination of crisp, tender, and hearty textures, it brings a little bit of everything to the plate. It’s a great way to add a burst of color and flavor to any meal, whether served on the side or as a light main course. It pairs well with grilled proteins, roasted dishes, or even on its own for a simple lunch. This is one of those salads that actually makes you want to eat your greens.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Grilled Vegetables
A simple side done right, Grilled Vegetables prove that sometimes less is more. With the perfect balance of smoky char and natural sweetness, they complement just about anything. Whether served next to a juicy steak, mixed with grains, or piled onto a sandwich, they bring color and variety to any plate. They’re easy, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you ever need a reason to eat more veggies, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are not here to play. These little bites bring the perfect mix of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, making them impossible to ignore. Whether as a side, a snack, or something to share, they disappear fast. They pair well with just about anything, but let’s be honest—they don’t really need anything else to shine. If you’re looking for a side dish that feels like a guilty pleasure, this one checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Sometimes, the simplest sides are the most satisfying, and Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits are proof. With layers of buttery goodness and just the right amount of richness, they’re the perfect addition to any meal. Whether served alongside soups, grilled meats, or just enjoyed with a bit of butter, they fit in anywhere. They’re small enough to keep things light but packed with enough flavor to stand out. Don’t be surprised if they disappear before anything else on the table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Carrots don’t always get the attention they deserve, but Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are here to change that. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tenderness, they’re the kind of side dish that works with just about anything. They add a touch of comfort to any meal without being too heavy. Whether served with roasted meats, grilled dishes, or even a holiday spread, they always feel right at home. If you think carrots are boring, these might change your mind.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Grilled Ratatouille
If you think grilled vegetables are just a side note, Grilled Ratatouille will prove otherwise. With a mix of flavors that work together seamlessly, it’s a dish that feels both rustic and refined. It’s a great way to add some color and variety to the plate while keeping things light. Whether paired with grilled meats, seafood, or just served over grains, it holds its own. This is one of those dishes that looks as good as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Some salads are filling enough to be the main event, and Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp makes a strong case. With a mix of fresh ingredients and satisfying textures, it’s a side that feels hearty yet balanced. Whether served alongside grilled fish, roasted meats, or enjoyed on its own, it brings something extra to the table. The orzo keeps things light while still being substantial. If you’re looking for a side that won’t be ignored, this one’s got it covered.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Potato salad gets a fresh twist with Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad. The mix of hearty and crisp textures makes it stand out from the usual versions. It’s a great side for summer barbecues, casual dinners, or even as part of a holiday spread. The balance of flavors keeps it interesting without being too heavy. If you’re looking for a potato salad that brings something new to the table, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
A classic dish with a smoky twist, Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings a fresh and bold combination of flavors. The balance of textures keeps things light, while the smoky tomatoes add an unexpected depth. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a topping for sandwiches and wraps. Whether served as a side or a standalone dish, it always brings something interesting to the table. If you’re looking for a salad with a little something extra, this is the one.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Parisian Potatoes
Simple, elegant, and full of flavor, Parisian Potatoes prove that a good potato dish doesn’t need much to shine. With a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy inside, they strike the perfect balance of texture. They’re a great side for roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a simple vegetarian meal. Their golden-brown finish makes them just as good to look at as they are to eat. If you need a reliable potato dish that fits any occasion, this one works every time.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Turkey Fried Rice
A good fried rice doesn’t need to be complicated, and Turkey Fried Rice keeps things simple and satisfying. With a perfect mix of textures and bold flavors, it’s the kind of side that feels just as good as the main course. It works well with grilled meats, roasted dishes, or even on its own as a quick meal. The turkey adds a little something extra without overpowering the dish. If you need a way to make rice more interesting, this is a solid option.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Mac and cheese is already a classic, but Smoked Mac & Cheese takes it to another level. The smoky flavor adds depth, giving this comfort food a little something extra. It’s creamy, rich, and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, barbecue, or just about anything that needs a little indulgence. This is the kind of side that turns heads at the dinner table. If you thought regular mac and cheese was hard to resist, wait until you try this version.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is always a good idea, but Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob makes it even better. The smoky char brings out its natural sweetness, making every bite worth it. It’s the perfect side for summer barbecues, backyard cookouts, or any meal that could use a little something extra. Whether slathered with butter or enjoyed as-is, it never disappoints. If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful addition to the table, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Cauliflower doesn’t have to be plain, and Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill proves it. The bright flavors balance the natural richness of the vegetable, making it a fresh yet satisfying side. It works well with grilled meats, seafood, or even as part of a grain bowl. Light but still full of flavor, it’s the kind of dish that surprises people. If you’re used to boring cauliflower, this version might change your mind.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Comfort food at its best, Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that keeps people coming back for more. Creamy, rich, and perfectly baked, it turns a simple potato dish into something unforgettable. It’s a perfect fit for holiday feasts, family dinners, or any meal that needs a little extra warmth. Whether served with roasted meats or as part of a larger spread, it always hits the spot. If you need a side that feels like home, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Creamed Corn
A side dish that’s smooth, rich, and packed with flavor, Creamed Corn brings a little extra comfort to the table. It’s creamy without being too heavy, making it a great complement to everything from barbecue to roasted poultry. The natural sweetness of the corn shines through, keeping things simple but satisfying. Whether served at a casual cookout or a fancy dinner, it always feels like the right choice. If you’re looking for a side that’s both nostalgic and delicious, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
German Yellow Beans
A side dish with a little history and a lot of flavor, German Yellow Beans bring a unique twist to the table. The tender texture and bold seasoning make them a great alternative to traditional green beans. Whether served with roasted meats, sausages, or even just a simple grain dish, they always stand out. They’re a little different, but that’s exactly why they work. If you’re ready to switch up your usual bean dish, this one is worth a try.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans
Classic Mac and Cheese
Some side dishes don’t need an introduction, and Classic Mac and Cheese is one of them. Creamy, rich, and perfectly comforting, this dish pairs well with everything from barbecue to roasted vegetables. It’s the kind of side that disappears fast, no matter how much is made. Whether served at a casual dinner or a big holiday feast, it always feels like the right choice. If you’re looking for a side that pleases everyone, this one never fails.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of tangy, Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze adds something unexpected to the table. The caramelized edges bring out the natural sweetness, making it a great contrast to rich, savory dishes. It works as a side, a topping, or even a light dessert after a big meal. Whether paired with grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it always delivers a fresh and bold bite. If you haven’t tried grilled pineapple yet, this is the way to do it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Brussels sprouts have come a long way, and Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds make a strong case for why they should be on every plate. The balance of nutty, rich flavors and tender sprouts creates a side dish that feels both hearty and refined. It works well with roasted meats, holiday spreads, or even as a simple weeknight dish. Every bite brings a mix of crunch and richness that keeps things interesting. If you’re still on the fence about Brussels sprouts, this version might change your mind.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
A small addition that makes a big impact, Quick Smoked Tomatoes bring bold, deep flavors to any meal. Whether added to salads, served alongside grilled dishes, or spooned over grains, they always bring something extra. The smoky depth enhances their natural sweetness, making them a great contrast to fresh and hearty dishes alike. They’re quick, easy, and endlessly versatile. If you need a side that punches above its weight, this one does the job.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Grilled Asparagus
A simple classic that never gets old, Grilled Asparagus is a go-to side for just about any meal. The slight char adds depth, bringing out the natural richness of each spear. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or even as part of a hearty salad. Light yet flavorful, it adds a fresh element to any plate without being overpowering. If you need an easy, reliable vegetable side, this one never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Greek Green Beans
Green beans don’t always get a lot of attention, but Greek Green Beans bring enough flavor to change that. With a perfect mix of tender texture and bold seasoning, this dish stands out in the best way. It’s a great addition to grilled meats, roasted mains, or even as part of a vegetarian spread. The flavors develop in a way that makes every bite better than the last. If you think green beans are just an afterthought, this dish proves otherwise.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans