When it comes to meal planning, the main dish often steals the spotlight, but the right side dish can turn an ordinary meal into something memorable. These 19 side dishes are surprisingly simple to make and are perfect for those looking to add variety to their meals without a lot of fuss. Each recipe brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate. From quick and healthy options to comforting and indulgent selections, these sides deserve a spot on your dinner rotation.
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Goat-Cheese-Salad-HOR2-1024x576.jpeg)
Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa
![Two black bean tacos on wooden board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Black-Bean-Tacos-with-Sweet-Pepper-Salsa.jpg)
Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa are a delightful vegetarian option that packs a punch of flavor. With black beans and a colorful sweet pepper salsa as the main components, these tacos are both nutritious and satisfying. They can be whipped up in about 20 minutes, making them a quick and easy choice for any meal. The combination of soft beans and tangy salsa wrapped in a warm tortilla offers a tasty and textural experience.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Tacos with Sweet Pepper Salsa
Roasted Beet, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad
![Side view of roasted beet salad on white platter.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Roasted-Beet-Apple-and-Goat-Cheese-Salad.jpg)
Roasted Beet, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad is a refreshing and earthy side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains. Roasting the beets takes about an hour, but the preparation of the salad itself is swift and simple. The main ingredients include roasted beets, crisp apples, and creamy goat cheese. This salad offers a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beet, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad
Crispy Plantain Chips
![Side view of chips with salsa.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Crispy-Air-Fryer-Plantain-Chips.jpg)
Crispy Plantain Chips are a two-ingredient wonder, made using just plantains and oil in an air fryer. In under 15 minutes, you can enjoy a crunchy and slightly sweet snack that’s healthier than traditional potato chips. These chips are perfect for those who enjoy a quick and easy side with a tropical twist. The air fryer ensures they are crispy without being greasy.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Plantain Chips
Halloumi Tacos
![Overhead view of halloumi tacos.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/halloumi-tacos.jpg)
Halloumi Tacos bring a Cypriot twist to the Mexican classic by incorporating grilled halloumi cheese. The preparation time is roughly 15 minutes, making it a fast and tasty option for any meal. With halloumi as the star ingredient, these tacos offer a unique, salty flavor and a pleasing, firm texture. They’re a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Tacos
Middle Eastern Roasted Carrots
![Middle Eastern roasted carrots with olives, goat cheese, salad topper and harissa-preserved lemon dressing.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Middle-Eastern-roasted-carrots.jpg)
Middle Eastern Roasted Carrots are a simple side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots through roasting for about 30 minutes. The carrots are seasoned with a blend of Middle Eastern spices, which adds a warm and aromatic flavor. This dish is an excellent accompaniment to any meal, providing a colorful and flavorful addition to the table. The roasted carrots have a tender, caramelized quality that’s irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Roasted Carrots
German Roasted Cauliflower with Curry Cashew Crust
![A bowl of cauliflower gratin topped with nuts and herbs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/German-roasted-cauliflower-1600x900-1.jpg)
German Roasted Cauliflower with Curry Cashew Crust is a unique twist on a classic vegetable side. The cauliflower roasts for about 25 minutes and is coated with a savory curry cashew mixture. This dish offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of warm, nutty flavors. It’s a hearty side that pairs well with many different mains.
Get the Recipe: German Roasted Cauliflower with Curry Cashew Crust
Marinated Tofu Spring Rolls
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/marinated-tofu-spring-rolls.jpeg)
Marinated Tofu Spring Rolls are a light and healthy side dish, often ready in under 25 minutes. The tofu is marinated in a savory sauce, and the rolls are packed with fresh vegetables. These spring rolls provide a crisp and refreshing taste with every bite. The combination of marinated tofu and vegetables creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Tofu Spring Rolls
Colombian Fruit Salad
![Colombian fruit salad in pineapple.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Colombian-fruit-salad-HORIZONTAL2.jpg)
Colombian Fruit Salad is a vibrant and sweet mixture of various fruits, typically taking about 15 minutes to assemble. This refreshing salad includes a variety of tropical fruits, offering a burst of natural sweetness and a juicy texture. It’s a perfect side for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser during a meal. The salad is a colorful and healthy addition to any table.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Fruit Salad
Lime, Chili, and Ginger-Dressed Broccoli
![A bowl of broccoli in a white bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Lime-chili-and-ginger-dressed-broccoli-Paleo-1600x900-1.jpg)
Lime, Chili, and Ginger-Dressed Broccoli is a zesty side dish that can be prepared in approximately 20 minutes. The broccoli is tossed with a dressing made from lime, chili, and ginger, providing a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. This dish is a great way to add some excitement to your greens. The dressed broccoli is both invigorating and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Lime, Chili, and Ginger-Dressed Broccoli
Colombian Baked Plantains with Guava and Cheese
![Baked plantains with cheese and guava wth tablecloth.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Plantains-with-cheese-and-guava-12.jpg)
Colombian Baked Plantains with Guava and Cheese combine sweet plantains with the rich flavors of guava paste and cheese, baked for about 25 minutes. This dish offers a delightful contrast of sweet and savory tastes with a soft, indulgent texture. It’s a traditional Colombian side that doubles as a decadent dessert. The combination of ingredients creates a unique and memorable flavor experience.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Baked Plantains with Guava and Cheese
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus
![Air-fried asparagus spears with crispy texture.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Air-Fryer-Asparagus-1-2-1536x1024-1.jpg)
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus takes a mere 10 minutes to achieve a perfect, crunchy texture. This dish features asparagus spears that become tender on the inside and crispy on the outside thanks to the air fryer. The renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi’s recipe provides a simple yet elegant side. The asparagus has a natural, grassy flavor that’s enhanced by the cooking method.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus
Fried Halloumi Salad
![Large plate of fried halloumi salad with wine glass.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Large-plate-of-fried-halloumi-salad-with-small-plate-knife-and-baguette-slices.jpg)
Fried Halloumi Salad is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s ready in about 20 minutes. The salad includes fried halloumi cheese, which offers a salty and slightly chewy contrast to the fresh greens. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a hearty yet simple side. The combination of textures and flavors makes this salad a satisfying addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Halloumi Salad
Colombian Cheese Arepas
![Cheese arepa on a plate with toppings.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DB1A7042.jpg)
Colombian Cheese Arepas are a comforting and versatile side, usually ready to enjoy in 15 minutes. These arepas are made with cornmeal and filled with cheese, resulting in a warm and gooey center. They can be eaten alone or paired with various toppings. The arepas have a soft, doughy texture with a cheesy, satisfying flavor.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Cheese Arepas
Easy Gluten Free Samosas
![Gluten free samosas on white background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/samosas.jpeg)
Easy Gluten Free Samosas are a delightful option for those with dietary restrictions, taking about 30 minutes to prepare. These samosas are filled with a spicy and savory mixture of vegetables and are completely gluten-free. They are perfect as a side or a snack any time of the day. The samosas have a crispy exterior with a hearty, flavorful filling.
Get the Recipe: Easy Gluten Free Samosas
Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta
![Side view of white bean salad in bowl with tongs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Mediterranean-White-Bean-Salad-with-Feta.jpg)
Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta is a refreshing side dish that requires about 15 minutes to toss together. It combines white beans, feta cheese, and fresh herbs for a light yet satisfying taste. This salad is a great source of protein and pairs well with a variety of mains. The flavors are bright and the textures varied, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta
Argentinian Empanadas
![Empanadas on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Argentinian-Empanadas.jpg)
Argentinian Empanadas are a traditional South American side that can be baked or fried, typically within 30 minutes. These pastry pockets are filled with a savory vegetarian filling, offering a warm and comforting taste. Empanadas are versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients to suit any palate. They boast a flaky crust and a flavorful, moist interior.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
![Chicken skewers on skewers with lemon wedges.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Turkish-kofta-kebabs.jpg)
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish made with ground chicken, onions, and a blend of spices. These kebabs are typically grilled to perfection within 20 minutes, providing a smoky and savory taste that’s hard to resist. They make a perfect side or main attraction for any barbecue or outdoor gathering. The spices and herbs used in the koftas give them a distinctive and aromatic flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Goat Cheese Salad
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Goat-Cheese-Salad-HOR2-1024x576.jpeg)
Goat Cheese Salad is a simple yet elegant side dish that’s ready in about 20 minutes. It features creamy goat cheese, mixed greens, and a light dressing. This salad offers a creamy texture and a mild, tangy flavor that complements the greens. It’s a straightforward dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Salad
Marinated Tomatoes
![Closeup of marinated heirloom tomatoes in a yellow and white pie dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/3.jpg)
Marinated Tomatoes are a celebration of summer’s bounty, requiring only 10 minutes to prepare the marinade. Fresh heirloom tomatoes soak in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and oregano, infusing them with bold flavors. This dish serves as a vibrant salad or a flavorful topping for sandwiches. The tomatoes become juicy and aromatic, making them an irresistible addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Tomatoes