A good side dish can turn an ordinary dinner into something special. These recipes bring big flavors, simple ingredients, and just the right balance to any meal. Some are rich and comforting, while others are fresh and light, but they all have one thing in common—they never last long on the table.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
Zucchini, squash, and tomatoes simmer together, soaking up herbs and seasonings for a dish that’s rich and full of bold flavor. Each bite brings a balance of fresh and hearty, making it a great match for pasta, roasted meats, or even on its own. It’s a delicious side dish that turns simple ingredients into something worth savoring.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce until soft, rich, and bubbling with flavor. A crispy, golden top adds just the right crunch, making every bite even more satisfying. It’s a delicious side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Harvest Quinoa Salad
Roasted squash, tangy feta, and dried cranberries come together with hearty quinoa for a salad packed with flavor and texture. The mix of sweet and savory keeps every bite interesting, while the quinoa makes it filling and satisfying. It’s a delicious side dish that works with any meal and comes together without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Quinoa Salad
Cinnamon Apples
Soft, tender apples cook down with warm cinnamon, creating a rich, caramel-like flavor that feels both simple and special. Their natural sweetness makes them a perfect side for breakfast, dinner, or even dessert. It’s a delicious side dish that’s easy to make and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apples
Baked Kale Chips
Light, crispy, and full of flavor, these baked kale chips bring the perfect crunch to any plate. Roasted just right, they offer a fun way to enjoy greens without feeling like eating a salad. It’s a delicious side dish that’s simple to make and even easier to snack on.
Get the Recipe: Baked Kale Chips
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Fresh and crunchy shaved Brussels sprouts are tossed in a bold, flavorful dressing that brings out their nutty taste. Their crisp texture pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains without feeling heavy. It’s a delicious side dish that switches up the usual greens and keeps things light and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Buttery Dinner Rolls
Warm, soft, and buttery, these dinner rolls make every meal feel a little more special. Their golden crust and pillowy inside are perfect for soaking up sauces, spreading with butter, or enjoying on their own. It’s a delicious side dish that never lasts long on the table.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Dinner Rolls
Tomato Quinoa Salad
Juicy tomatoes, fluffy quinoa, and crisp cucumbers come together in a fresh, flavorful salad that works with any meal. A light dressing ties everything together, giving each bite a bright and refreshing taste. It’s a delicious side dish that’s simple to make but always feels like something special.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Quinoa Salad
Corn Casserole
Sweet corn, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy sauce make this rich and comforting casserole a standout. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, making it a side dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s a delicious side dish that has everyone reaching for seconds before they’re done with the first.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
Mashed Potatoes
Smooth, creamy, and packed with buttery goodness, these mashed potatoes are the perfect companion for just about any meal. Whether served plain or smothered in gravy, they make every bite more satisfying. It’s a delicious side dish that always belongs on the table.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Risotto with Peas and Lemon
Creamy risotto gets a bright boost from sweet peas and a touch of fresh lemon. The velvety texture and light, fresh flavors make it a great match for just about any main dish. It’s a delicious side dish that brings comfort and freshness together in one bite.
Get the Recipe: Risotto with Peas and Lemon
Buttery Crescent Rolls
Soft, flaky, and rich with buttery goodness, these crescent rolls melt in your mouth. Their light, golden crust makes them perfect for dipping, spreading, or enjoying on their own. It’s a delicious side dish that pairs well with just about anything.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Crescent Rolls
Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
A rich, creamy sauce coats every bite of this mac and cheese, while crispy bacon and juicy tomatoes add bold flavor and texture. A golden, crunchy topping makes it even more satisfying, giving every bite a little extra bite. It’s a delicious side dish that turns classic comfort food into something even better.
Get the Recipe: Grown-Up Mac and Cheese