Bored with the same old side dishes every night? These recipes are here to change that. They’re easy to whip up and packed with flavors that will make your weeknight dinners a lot more interesting. From crispy treats cooked in the air fryer to creamy, comforting concoctions, there’s something in this list that will catch your eye and take your meal to the next level.
Air Fryer Crispy Cabbage
Transform simple cabbage into an irresistible dish with this recipe. Cut into steaks and seasoned with garlic, onion, and a pinch of salt, it cooks to tender perfection with delightfully crispy edges using an air fryer. This dish is a great way to introduce a new star to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crispy Cabbage
Utica Greens
A traditional favorite from upstate New York, these sautéed greens mixed with prosciutto and hot cherry peppers, topped with a cheesy breadcrumb crust, bring a spicy and crunchy flavor that complements any main dish beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens
Jicama Fries
For a lighter take on fries, try these baked jicama sticks. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they mimic classic potato fries but with a refreshing crunch. A great side dish that’s both nutritious and enjoyable.
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Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
Golden and crispy, these hasselback potatoes are a notch above the rest. Seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper, and chives, they’re a breeze to prepare in the air fryer and pair well with nearly any main dish. A foolproof way to bring a touch of gourmet to your regular meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
Broccoli Cauliflower Gratin
This gratin is a comforting side that combines broccoli and cauliflower in a creamy, cheesy embrace, topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a perfect side dish to convince anyone to eat their veggies and is sure to be a hit at any family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cauliflower Gratin
Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are a wonderful way to enjoy a simple, sweet and salty side dish. Fried until golden and crisp with a soft, sweet interior, they pair beautifully with any meal and are a hit in any setting.
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Air Fryer Crispy Asparagus Fries
Enjoy a burst of spring in every bite with these crispy asparagus fries, complete with a tangy lemon dijon sauce. Quick to prepare in the air fryer, they add a crispy, flavorful edge to any weeknight meal. Perfect for when you want something light yet rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crispy Asparagus Fries
Lentil Tabbouleh
This refreshing lentil tabbouleh is a hearty twist on the classic, featuring vibrant tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a zing from lemon and spices. It’s a great side dish that’s filling and flavorful, perfect for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Tabbouleh
Crispy Potato Strips
Think beyond regular fries with these crispy potato strips, seasoned with rosemary and parmesan. They’re a simple yet splendid addition to your meal, bringing a rustic touch to your plate with minimal effort.
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Pesto Couscous
Ready in just 10 minutes, this pesto couscous is a lifesaver on busy nights. It’s light, fluffy, and packed with flavor, perfect alongside meat or seafood, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Air Fryer Green Bean Fries
These green bean fries are a fantastic way to snack on veggies. Served with a spicy, creamy yogurt-based dip, they’re made quickly in the air fryer for a crispy, guilt-free side that perks up any plate. They’re perfect for a hassle-free addition that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Fries
Parsnip Puree
Enjoy the rich and creamy taste of this parsnip puree, enhanced with roasted garlic, butter, and a hint of rosemary. It’s a smooth, flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes and can elevate a casual meal to something special without much effort.
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Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
Add a pop of color to your dinner with these mashed purple sweet potatoes, enriched with savory herb butter. Easy to prepare, they’re not only nourishing but also a visually stunning addition to your meal lineup.
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Creamy Mashed Yuca
Give the usual mashed potatoes a rest and try this creamy mashed yuca recipe instead. Its smooth texture and rich flavor make it a perfect companion to any main dish, enhancing your dinner with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Yuca
Stuffed Round Zucchini
Stuffed with a flavorful mixture, these round zucchinis make dinner more interesting. They’re perfect for a light yet filling side dish that looks as great as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Round Zucchini
Cheesy Quinoa
Quinoa meets zucchini in this cheesy concoction that’s bound to become a new favorite at your table. It’s a great solution for a quick side dish that packs nutrition and flavor in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Quinoa
Zucchini Ricotta Bake
This zucchini ricotta bake is layered with flavors and reminiscent of lasagna, making it a comforting side without the heaviness of noodles. It’s an effortless way to spruce up your dinner and impress your family.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Ricotta Bake