Flavorful Sides

Table of Contents

Delicious and Easy Side Dish Recipes for Every Occasion

A great meal isn’t just about the main course; it’s the harmony of flavors and textures that truly elevates the dining experience. Side dishes play a pivotal role in this culinary symphony, adding balance, nutrition, and exciting contrasts to your main entrées. Whether you’re looking to round out a simple weeknight dinner, impress guests at a holiday feast, or simply expand your repertoire of quick and satisfying accompaniments, this collection is designed to inspire. We’ve gathered an array of delightful recipes, ranging from our signature homemade creations to fantastic contributions from trusted culinary blogs, ensuring you have a diverse selection of easy and delicious options at your fingertips.

Homemade Side Dishes from Add Salt & Serve

Our kitchen is always bustling with new ideas, and these homemade side dishes are some of our personal favorites. Crafted with simplicity and flavor in mind, they are perfect for adding a touch of homemade goodness to any meal without demanding hours of prep. From comforting classics to fresh and vibrant salads, each recipe is designed to be straightforward and satisfying, ensuring delicious results every time.

Quick Rolls in a basket

Quick Rolls

These incredibly easy 3-ingredient quick rolls are a game-changer for any meal. They are not only simple to prepare but also wonderfully delicious, making them a perfect last-minute addition to your dinner table. Their soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor will have everyone asking for more, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes yield the best results.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
35 mins
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American, Vegetarian
Servings:
12 servings
Calories:
201 cal

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ cups biscuit mix, divided
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Combine all ingredients except ¼ cup biscuit mix in a large bowl and mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup biscuit mix onto a clean, flat surface, such as a cutting board. Divide the dough into 12 equal sections (a helpful tip: divide the dough into quarters first, then divide each quarter into thirds for even portions). Form each dough section into three equal balls and roll them in the scattered biscuit mix until lightly coated.
  4. Place three dough balls together into each muffin cup. Repeat this process until all 12 muffin cups are filled.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and the rolls are cooked through.

Notes

If you don’t have biscuit mix on hand, you can easily use a homemade biscuit mix substitute for similar delicious results.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 201 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Sodium: 370 mg
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 14 g
Chopped Apple and Pecan Salad

Chopped Apple and Pecan Salad

Brighten up your meal with this Chopped Apple and Pecan Salad. The crispness of fresh apples and the earthy crunch of pecans perfectly complement a bed of spring mix lettuce, all brought together with a sweet poppyseed dressing. This salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish, ideal for any time you want to add a vibrant and exciting element to your table.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
10 mins
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
8 servings
Calories:
153 cal

Ingredients

  • 12 oz spring mix lettuce, washed and patted dry
  • 2 Gala apples
  • ¼ cup pecan pieces
  • ⅓ cup blue cheese crumbles
  • 4 oz. poppy seed dressing

Instructions

  1. Wash, core, seed, and chop the Gala apples into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, gently toss the spring mix lettuce with the poppy seed dressing until evenly coated.
  3. Arrange the dressed lettuce on serving plates. Top with the chopped apples, blue cheese crumbles, and pecan pieces.
  4. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 153 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Sodium: 201 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 10 g
Pan Sautéed Squash and Onions

Pan Sautéed Squash and Onions

A quick and flavorful side, our Pan Sautéed Squash and Onions brings out the natural sweetness of these vegetables. Cooked to a tender-crisp perfection in butter, this dish is wonderfully simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s an ideal choice for a light and healthy accompaniment to almost any main course, and its minimal prep time means you can have it on the table in minutes.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
15 mins
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
4 servings
Calories:
53 cal

Ingredients

  • 2 yellow squash or zucchini, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced squash (or zucchini) and onion to the skillet. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, approximately 7-10 minutes. Avoid overcooking to maintain their fresh texture.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving warm.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 53 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Sodium: 34 mg
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 5 g
Mandarin Pineapple Salad

Mandarin Pineapple Salad

This Mandarin Pineapple Salad is the epitome of quick and refreshing. With just two simple ingredients, this fruit salad comes together in a flash, making it an excellent choice when you need a light and sweet side dish. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a palate cleanser after a rich meal, offering a burst of tropical flavor with minimal effort.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
5 mins
Chill Time:
4 hrs
Total Time:
4 hrs 5 mins
Course:
Salad
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
6 servings
Calories:
84 cal

Ingredients

  • 11 oz Mandarin orange slices, canned
  • 20 oz pineapple tidbits, canned

Instructions

  1. Store both cans of fruit in the refrigerator until thoroughly chilled and ready to use. This step ensures the salad is perfectly cool and refreshing upon serving.
  2. Once chilled, drain the liquid from both cans of fruit completely.
  3. Combine the drained mandarin orange slices and pineapple tidbits in a serving bowl. Toss gently to mix.
  4. Serve immediately as a delightful and easy fruit salad.

Notes

Keeping the cans of fruit in the refrigerator beforehand eliminates the need for chilling the salad after assembly, saving you time when preparing for a gathering.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 84 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Fat: 1 g
  • Sodium: 2 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 20 g
Apple, Grape, and Walnut Salad

Apple, Grape, and Walnut Salad

This Apple, Grape, and Walnut Salad is a delightful mix of crisp apples, juicy red grapes, and crunchy walnuts, all enrobed in a creamy vanilla yogurt dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying salad that works equally well as a vibrant side dish to complement savory meals or as a wholesome and delicious snack. Its balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
10 mins
Course:
Dessert, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
4 servings
Calories:
364 cal

Ingredients

  • 3 Granny Smith apples, washed, cored, and sliced
  • 2 cups red grapes, washed and pulled from the stems
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts
  • 8 oz. vanilla yogurt
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, blend together the vanilla yogurt and softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Set this dressing aside.
  2. In a separate large bowl, combine the sliced apples, red grapes, and chopped walnuts.
  3. Pour the prepared vanilla yogurt mixture over the fruit and nut blend. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, allowing the creamy dressing to enhance the fresh fruit and crunchy walnuts.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 364 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Sodium: 132 mg
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 39 g
Creamed Peas

Creamed Peas

Bring a touch of elegance to your table with our Creamed Peas. These delicious sweet peas, enveloped in a rich cream sauce, not only make a pretty side dish but are also incredibly quick to prepare, taking only about 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s an effortless yet flavorful addition to any meal, making it easy to incorporate more green vegetables into your weeknight rotation.

Author:
Mary Ann
Cook Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
10 mins
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American, Gluten-free, Vegetarian
Servings:
6 servings
Calories:
109 cal

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • 2 Tablespoons flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • dash pepper
  • 2 cups frozen peas

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and stir continuously with a whisk for 1 minute. Be careful not to brown the flour and butter mixture; it should remain light in color. Gradually add the milk, salt, pepper, and sugar, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then continue cooking and stirring constantly for another minute until the sauce thickens.
  3. Add the frozen peas to the sauce and bring back to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 3-5 minutes. The peas should be tender-crisp; take care not to overcook them to maintain their vibrant color and texture. Serve hot.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 109 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Sodium: 247 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 9 g
Fried Apples

Fried Apples

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Fried Apples, a classic side dish that’s both easy and incredibly satisfying. Sliced apples are simmered to perfection in a rich brown sugar and butter sauce, creating a tender, caramelized treat that pairs beautifully with savory dishes or even as a simple dessert. It’s a nostalgic favorite that comes together with minimal effort and brings a touch of warmth to any meal.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
4 servings
Calories:
124 cal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • ⅛ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 cups Granny Smith apples, cored, peeled, and sliced
  • ½ cup apple juice
  • dash of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Add this mixture to the heated butter in the skillet, mixing well until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the sliced Granny Smith apples and apple juice to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
  3. Continue simmering until the apples are tender to your liking. Serve immediately while warm, or keep them warm on low heat until ready to serve.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 124 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Sodium: 54 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 16 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 17 g
Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Discover the incredible flavor of fresh Brussels sprouts transformed by roasting! This quick and easy recipe brings out the best in these mini cabbages, making them perfectly browned and tender with minimal cleanup. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious vegetable side dish that even skeptics might fall in love with. Perfect for adding a gourmet touch to everyday meals or holiday feasts.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
4 servings
Calories:
197 cal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more as needed
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water and remove any discolored or loose outer leaves.
  2. Chop off and discard the hard stalk end from each sprout.
  3. Slice each Brussels sprout lengthwise into approximately ¼-inch thick slices.
  4. Lay a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet. Spread the sliced Brussels sprouts evenly over the parchment paper in a single layer.
  5. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the sprouts. Toss thoroughly with your hands to ensure all slices are lightly coated. Add a bit more oil if necessary to achieve even coverage.
  6. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200°C). Roast the Brussels sprouts for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender and beautifully browned with some crispy edges, but not burned. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the cooking time. Serve hot.

Equipment

  • Parchment Paper

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 197 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Sodium: 684 mg
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 7 g
Pasta Salad

Pasta Salad

Our classic Pasta Salad is a refreshing and satisfying side dish, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple lunch. Made with tender elbow macaroni, creamy sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and colorful peas and carrots, it’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors. This easy-to-make salad requires minimal effort and is best served chilled, making it an excellent make-ahead option for any gathering.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
15 mins
Chill Time:
2 hrs
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
8 servings
Calories:
361 cal

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups light sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas & carrots, thawed
  • salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente.
  2. Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled macaroni, light sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and thawed peas & carrots.
  4. Stir all ingredients together well until everything is evenly combined. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to become perfectly cool.

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories: 361 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Sodium: 433 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 47 g
Sautéed Cabbage and Onion

Sautéed Cabbage and Onion

Experience the perfect harmony of flavors with our Sautéed Cabbage and Onion. The natural sweetness of sautéed onion beautifully balances the earthy taste of cabbage in this incredibly easy-to-make side dish. It’s a quick, healthy, and flavorful accompaniment that pairs well with a variety of main courses, adding a delightful texture and depth to your meal without any fuss.

Author:
Mary Ann
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Course:
Side Dish
Servings:
6 servings
Calories:
81 cal

Ingredients

  • 1 head cabbage
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Chop the cabbage into desired bite-sized pieces, discarding the tough core.
  2. Chop the large onion into consistent, manageable pieces.
  3. Melt the butter in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
  4. Add the chopped cabbage and onion to the pan. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, typically about 10-15 minutes.
  5. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste before serving warm as a flavorful side.

Nutrition per serving

  • Serving: 1 serving
  • Calories: 81 cal
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 4 g
  • Sodium: 449 mg
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 7 g

Delightful Side Dishes Contributed by Other Sites

Beyond our own kitchen, we love to explore and share amazing recipes from talented food bloggers and culinary experts. This section features a selection of fantastic side dishes that have caught our eye for their unique flavors, ease of preparation, or sheer deliciousness. Each recipe is a testament to the creativity in the food world, and we’re thrilled to showcase these gems to help you diversify your meal plans. You’ll find direct links to the original sources for complete instructions and more details.

Meuller's Old Fashioned Mac & Cheese

Meuller’s Old Fashioned Mac & Cheese

A timeless classic, Meuller’s Old Fashioned Mac & Cheese is a comforting side dish that’s incredibly quick to assemble. This baked macaroni and cheese is known for its rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture, making it a guaranteed family favorite. It’s the perfect accompaniment for holiday meals, Sunday dinners, or any time you crave a taste of nostalgic goodness.

Get the full instructions on the Meuller website.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Mueller’s Elbows
  • ¼ cup butter or margarine
  • 3 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt, optional
  • ⅛ teaspoon dry mustard
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Grilled Corn With Garlic and Ginger Soy Butter

Grilled Corn With Garlic and Ginger Soy Butter

Elevate your grilled corn experience with this exceptional garlic and ginger soy butter. This savory and aromatic butter is the ultimate dressing for grilled corn, adding an incredible depth of flavor that complements the sweet char of the corn. It’s a sensational side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or any outdoor cooking event, offering a unique and irresistible twist on a classic.

See the full recipe at Serious Eats for instructions. Note that a charcoal grill adds flavor but is not entirely necessary (a gas grill works great too!).

Ingredients

  • 2 medium cloves garlic, minced on a Microplane grater (about 2 teaspoons)
  • 1-inch knob fresh ginger, minced on a Microplane grater (about 2 teaspoons)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 4 tablespoons softened butter
  • 1 teaspoon juice from 1 lemon
  • 8 ears corn, shucked
  • ¼ cup finely sliced scallions
Chick Pea Salad

Chick Pea Salad

This Chick Pea Salad is both delicious and remarkably easy to prepare, making it a fantastic healthy side dish option. Packed with plant-based protein and vibrant flavors, it’s a versatile salad that can complement a variety of meals or serve as a satisfying light lunch. The combination of ingredients creates a refreshing and hearty salad that’s good for you and tastes great.

Image credit: The Healthy Home Cook. Find the full recipe with instructions at The Healthy Home Cook.

Ingredients

  • 32 oz canned garbanzo beans
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 4 tablespoon olive oil
  • ⅓ cup lemon juice
  • 3 scallions
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • ⅓ cup parsley
Roasted Green Beans

Roasted Green Beans

These Roasted Green Beans are a testament to how simple ingredients can yield truly irresistible results. Incredibly easy to prepare, this baked green beans recipe quickly becomes a go-to side dish for weeknight dinners. They emerge from the oven perfectly crisp-tender and bursting with natural flavor, proving that healthy eating can be both convenient and delicious.

Find the full recipe with instructions at Kristine’s Kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh green beans
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt and pepper
Instant Pot Mushroom Rice Pilaf

Instant Pot Mushroom Rice Pilaf

Searching for a flavorful and convenient rice dish? Look no further than this Instant Pot Mushroom Rice Pilaf. This recipe is a fantastic one-pot wonder, delivering perfectly fluffy rice infused with rich mushroom flavors. It’s a quick, healthy meal that you can even make ahead, offering a cozy and delicious alternative to ordinary lunches. Enjoy this flavorful pilaf with your family, as it tastes just as wonderful, if not better, the next day.

Find the full recipe with instructions at The Belly Rules the Mind.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup onions, finely chopped
  • 10 oz Cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tsp Better Than Bouillon Mushroom Base or Vegetable Base
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped
  • salt to taste
  • 1 cup Basmati rice
  • 1 cup water
Oven Roasted Broccoli in Dijon Pesto Vinaigrette

Oven Roasted Broccoli in Dijon Pesto Vinaigrette

This Oven Roasted Broccoli in Dijon Pesto Vinaigrette is exceptionally flavorful and incredibly easy to prepare. We guarantee that anyone you serve this recipe to will fall in love with its vibrant taste and tender-crisp texture. The unique combination of Dijon mustard and pesto creates a rich vinaigrette that perfectly coats the roasted broccoli, making it an unforgettable side dish for any occasion.

For the full recipe and instructions, visit Erica’s Recipes.

Ingredients

  • 1 10 oz pkg fresh broccoli florets
  • 3 Tbs extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 Tbs Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbs prepared pesto sauce
  • 2 teaspoon white wine vinegar
  • good pinch kosher salt
  • pinch fresh cracked pepper
  • ¼ cup pine nuts
Garlic Parmesan Pan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Garlic Parmesan Pan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These oven-roasted Brussels sprouts are simply delightful, lightly seasoned with aromatic garlic and savory Parmesan cheese. The result is a winning flavor combination that the entire family will adore! Fresh, wonderfully crunchy, and incredibly easy to make, this Brussels sprouts side dish is an absolute winner that brings gourmet taste to your everyday meals.

Get the full recipe and instructions at The Love Nerds.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs. Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 2 tsp. garlic powder
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. black pepper
Orzo Pasta with Parmesan

Orzo Pasta with Parmesan

Orzo Pasta with butter and herbs creates a quick, elegant, and irresistibly delicious side dish. This simple recipe transforms tiny pasta into a flavorful accompaniment that’s versatile enough for any meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth that makes this dish a comforting and easy choice when you need a speedy yet satisfying side.

Get the full recipe with instructions at Beyond the Chicken Coop.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz orzo pasta, uncooked
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend dried herbs
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
Chinese Broccoli with Garlic Sauce

Chinese Broccoli with Garlic Sauce

Bring the authentic flavors of Asian cuisine to your table with this Chinese Broccoli with Garlic Sauce. This vibrant and healthy side dish features tender-crisp Chinese broccoli generously coated in a savory garlic sauce. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful accompaniment that adds a fresh, green element to any meal, perfect for those who appreciate quick and impactful vegetable preparations.

Visit The Gingered Whisk for the full recipe and instructions.

Ingredients

  • 1 Pound Broccoli
  • 2 Tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoons fresh minced ginger
  • 2 Tablespoons water
  • 1 ½ Tablespoons miso paste
  • 1 Tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Light & Fresh Cucumber-Cabbage Salad

Light & Fresh Cucumber-Cabbage Salad

Enjoy the perfect crunch and refreshing flavors of this Light & Fresh Cucumber-Cabbage Salad. Featuring crisp cucumbers and crunchy cabbage, this vibrant salad is drizzled with a zesty lemony-dill dressing that perfectly complements its fresh ingredients. It’s an ideal side dish to accompany any meal, especially during warmer months, offering a delightful and light contrast to richer main courses.

Get the instructions and full recipe at The Healthy Home Cook.

Ingredients

  • ½ head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 6-8 green onions, chopped
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 lemon
  • ⅛ cup fresh dill
  • 2 teaspoon white wine vinegar
  • dash of salt/pepper, more if desired
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

You’re going to absolutely love this easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole! This deliciously cheesy, low-carb, and keto-friendly zucchini bake makes a wonderful summer side dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. It’s a fantastic way to utilize that abundance of summer squash from your garden or farmer’s market, transforming it into a comforting and flavorful accompaniment to any meal.

Get the instructions and full recipe at All Day I Dream About Food.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini, quartered and chopped (about 4 cups)
  • 2 tablespoon butter cut into small pieces
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup chopped onion
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided (about 1 ½ cups)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Green Beans Almondine

Green Beans Almondine

Green Beans Almondine is a timeless and effortlessly elegant side dish. This classic recipe features crisp, tender green beans delicately sautéed in butter with bright lemon juice and savory shallots, then beautifully finished with toasted almonds. Don’t reserve this delightful dish just for special occasions; its simplicity and exquisite flavor make it perfect for any weeknight meal when you want to add a touch of sophistication.

Image credit: The Suburban Soapbox. Get the instructions and full recipe at The Suburban Soapbox.

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup butter, divided
  • ½ cup sliced almonds
  • ¼ cup shallots, minced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound green beans, trimmed and washed
  • kosher salt and pepper to taste
  • juice and zest of one lemon
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
roasted garlic zucchini

Garlic Roasted Zucchini

These Garlic Roasted Zucchini pieces are a revelation! They emerge from the oven perfectly tender without being mushy, and are beautifully topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy side dish is an ideal accompaniment for grilled burgers, roasted chicken, sandwiches, or flavorful kebabs, adding a healthy and delicious vegetable component to any meal.

Get the instructions and full recipe at The Gingered Whisk.

Ingredients

  • 2 zucchini, give or take depending on size and how many people you are feeding
  • 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 Tbsp. fresh minced rosemary
  • 1 garlic clove, sliced
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Parmesan Zucchini Rounds by Five Heart Home

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Rounds

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are hands down the BEST way to use up that abundant summer zucchini! This simple, incredibly addictive side dish comes together quickly and easily, requiring just two main ingredients. With their tender interior and crispy, cheesy exterior, these rounds are a fantastic and guilt-free way to enjoy a seasonal vegetable that everyone will adore.

Get the instructions and full recipe at Five Heart Home.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium-sized zucchini
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic salt & freshly ground black pepper, optional
roasted asparagus

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Garlic is a truly delicious side dish that perfectly complements any meal! This vibrant and flavorful recipe is ideal for spring celebrations, Easter dinners, or any holiday gathering. Quick, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser, these tender-crisp asparagus spears burst with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, making them an irresistible addition to your table.

Get the instructions and full recipe at Everyday Eileen.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ medium lemon, juiced
  • ½ medium lemon, sliced thin
  • zest of ½ lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Stovetop Creamed Corn

Stovetop Creamed Corn

Stovetop Creamed Corn is a comforting and classic side dish that’s incredibly easy to make. This recipe features a delicious blend of tender corn kernels simmered in rich milk, creating a creamy, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible accompaniment. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or simply adding a touch of homemade warmth to any meal, it’s a timeless favorite that comes together beautifully on your stovetop.

Get the instructions and full recipe at Home. Made. Interest.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Salted Butter
  • ¼ cup Yellow Onion, diced
  • ½ cup Milk
  • 1 tablespoon Flour
  • 5 cups Corn Kernels, frozen, canned, or fresh
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon Ground black pepper
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Crock Pot Corn Casserole

Crock Pot Corn Casserole

Simplify your meal preparation with this incredibly convenient Crock Pot Corn Casserole. Utilizing your slow cooker for this dish frees up valuable oven space, especially during busy holiday cooking. This holiday corn pudding not only tastes fabulous with its rich, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor but also requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal while it slowly cooks to perfection.

Get the instructions and full recipe at Mom Foodie.

Ingredients

  • 1 can yellow corn, drained
  • 1 can cream style corn
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, mild or medium sharpness
  • ¼ cup butter, melted
  • 1 package Jiffy cornbread mix, 6-7 ounce package

We hope this collection of delicious and easy side dish recipes inspires your next culinary adventure. From quick weeknight additions to impressive holiday accompaniments, these recipes are designed to bring joy and flavor to every plate. Don’t forget to explore the full details on the respective websites for these fantastic culinary creations!