Forget the main course for a second—these 17 sides are what the family will be whispering about when they think no one’s listening. From crispy to creamy, there’s a bit of everything to make sure nobody’s lingering too far from the table. Cooking them may take a little effort, but convincing everyone to sit down? That part takes care of itself.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
There’s something about the crisp edges and soft center of these Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes that gets everyone hovering near the kitchen. Their balanced texture makes them an irresistible side. Tossed on the table, they add a bit of warm comfort to any meal. By the time the first batch hits the plate, second helpings are already being claimed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Pesto Orzo Salad
One bite, and it’s clear why this dish disappears fast. Pesto Orzo Salad brings a fresh twist to the table, delivering big flavor in small bites. This side is perfect for those who like a mix of light and filling. Its combination of textures keeps the plate interesting without overpowering the meal.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Yellow Beans
Be ready for everyone to scoop seconds before the main course even arrives. Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Yellow Beans bring just the right amount of crunch and zing. These beans are proof that simple sides can steal the show. Perfectly cooked and full of flavor, they’re as fun to eat as they are to serve.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Yellow Beans
Polenta with Mascarpone
Creamy and smooth, Polenta with Mascarpone is the side dish that sneaks onto every plate, no questions asked. It adds a rich, satisfying element to any meal, and its texture is simply unforgettable. This dish doesn’t just sit quietly on the side—it demands attention in the best way. Guests might start asking if it’s the main event.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad
This Yellow Bean & Potato Salad is more than just a side; it’s a conversation starter at the table. With its hearty yet fresh vibe, it hits that perfect middle ground between light and filling. The balance of textures keeps each bite interesting, leaving everyone wanting more. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad
Smoked Cauliflower
Don’t be surprised when it’s gone before the main dish is. Smoked Cauliflower is the unexpected star of any meal, bringing a bold, smoky flavor that commands attention. It’s perfect for those looking for a unique, savory addition to their plate. The smoky notes keep it from blending into the background, making every bite memorable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon
Expect the serving bowl to be empty in record time. Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending rich, creamy goodness with a hint of smoky flavor. It’s the dish that everyone’s secretly hoping for when dinner is served. The combination of textures is just right, making each bite better than the last.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon
Mexican Black Beans
It’s the side you didn’t know you needed, but now can’t live without. Mexican Black Beans are that perfect mix of hearty and flavorful, adding a pop of color and taste to the table. They complement just about any main dish and bring a satisfying depth to the meal. Whether served warm or at room temp, they’re a reliable crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans
Steak & Pasta Salad
Combining the heartiness of steak with the bite of pasta, Steak & Pasta Salad earns its place as a must-have side. It balances the meal by offering a little bit of everything. This dish works equally well for casual dinners or fancier gatherings. Expect everyone to ask for the recipe after their second helping.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad
Greek Lemon Potatoes
Greek Lemon Potatoes bring a burst of citrusy goodness that pairs beautifully with just about anything. Their crispy edges and soft centers make them the perfect addition to any plate. They’re as satisfying to look at as they are to eat, with golden edges that practically beg to be devoured. Make extra—you’ll need them.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes
German Kohlrabi
Light yet satisfying, German Kohlrabi adds a fresh crunch that keeps plates lively. This side brings a unique texture to the table, offering something different from the usual greens. It’s simple yet memorable, making it a favorite for those who enjoy something a little off the beaten path. A few bites, and it’s the new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: German Kohlrabi
Salmon Pasta Salad
Guests will be reaching for seconds before they realize it’s gone. Salmon Pasta Salad combines rich flavors with light pasta for a dish that’s both filling and refreshing. It’s the side that balances out heavier mains while still standing out on its own. Perfect for any season, it’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Be ready for everyone to dive in as soon as they can. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans offer the perfect blend of savory flavor and tender texture. This slow-cooked side feels like a warm hug on the plate, making it a family favorite. It’s the kind of dish that fills the room with an irresistible aroma before it even reaches the table.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
It’s one to keep in regular rotation. Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone takes simplicity to the next level, offering a side that’s both creamy and crisp. The contrast between the soft mascarpone and the roasted asparagus makes each bite worth savoring. This dish is elegant enough for special occasions but easy enough for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes
Once they hit the table, they’re gone in minutes. Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes deliver bold flavor in every bite, thanks to their perfectly infused seasoning. These potatoes are rich without being heavy, making them a perfect companion to any main dish. Their aroma alone will have everyone wandering into the kitchen for a sneak peek.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Silky and indulgent, Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone is the perfect complement to both light and hearty meals. Its rich texture makes it a standout, turning a simple vegetable into something extraordinary. This dish always gets a spot on the table, no matter the occasion. Get ready for it to vanish the moment it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Bacon Fried Corn
Sweet corn meets savory bacon in Bacon Fried Corn, creating a side dish that’s impossible to resist. It strikes a perfect balance between sweet and salty, making it a favorite at any meal. The mix of flavors ensures that each bite feels like a little celebration. Serve it up, and watch as it quickly becomes the most talked-about dish at the table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn