17 simple sides that are perfect for busy weeknights

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Struggling to find quick and easy sides for your busy weeknights? These 17 simple options have got you covered! Whether you need something to complement your main dish or just a fast and tasty addition, these sides will save you time and stress. Get ready to make your evenings a little easier and a lot more delicious with these easy-to-prep sides. Your family will thank you!

A white bowl of potato salad with mayonnaise.
Faux Potato Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Crispy Baked Zucchini served on a white plate.
Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

When you’re pressed for time but still want to add a dash of health and crunch to your meal, think about slipping Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven into the mix. It’s a breeze to prepare, requiring minimal prep and ingredients you probably already have. This dish proves that you don’t have to sacrifice health for convenience. Its crispy edge and tender inside could easily make it a go-to side dish, even on the busiest evenings.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Pumpkin Fries

Pumpkin Fries on a parchment paper with herbs.
Pumpkin Fries. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For those looking to spruce up their side dish game with something a bit unconventional, Pumpkin Fries offer a nutritious twist on a beloved classic. They’re vibrant, with just the right balance between soft and crisp, making them an outstanding accompaniment to any main. It’s an effortless way to introduce more vegetables into your diet, without skimping on enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Fries

Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes

Extra Crispy Keto Tater Tots Croquettes inside white bowl.
Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Nothing complements a casual dinner like Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes, bringing a touch of indulgence without the need for a deep fryer. They’re perfectly crispy on the outside, with a satisfyingly soft interior, and they effortlessly upgrade any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. They’re a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest foods bring the most pleasure.
Get the Recipe: Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes

Coconut Cauliflower Rice

Coconut Cauliflower Rice inside golden plate with lime slices.
Coconut Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

In the world of low-carb sides, Coconut Cauliflower Rice stands out for its lightness and surprising burst of flavor. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional rice, adding an exotic twist with a hint of coconut. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also pairs well with a variety of cuisines, from Asian to Caribbean. It could easily become a staple in your repertoire, especially on nights when time is of the essence.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cauliflower Rice

Crispy Low Carb French Fries

Keto French Fries on the table with ketchup and mayo.
Crispy Low Carb French Fries. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For anyone watching their carb intake but missing the joy of French fries, Crispy Low Carb French Fries are here to save the day. These fries offer all the crunch and comfort of their potato-based counterparts, without the regret. They can be enjoyed with your favorite dipping sauces or as an accompaniment to almost any dish. It’s proof that you can maintain a low-carb lifestyle without compromising on taste or texture.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Low Carb French Fries

Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish

Chicken mu in a brown bowl.
Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

If you’re in the mood for something that brings a bit of tangy crispness to the table, Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish should not be overlooked. It introduces an exciting pop of flavor that complements heavier meals exceptionally well, offering a refreshing balance. This side dish requires minimal effort for a payoff that’s both palate-cleansing and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish

Rutabaga Fries

Rutabaga Fries serves in a glass.
Rutabaga Fries. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Rutabaga Fries present an intriguing alternative for those seeking variety in their side dish selections. They’re less starchy than traditional fries, with a slightly sweet and earthy taste that pairs well with robust main courses. Easy to make and undeniably nutritious, these fries challenge the norm and introduce a new root vegetable to love.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries

Lecso Vegetable Stew

A girl holding a big casserole filled with vegetable stew.
Lecso Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

When the weather cools down, or you’re simply craving something comforting, consider Lecso Vegetable Stew. This hearty, yet surprisingly light stew is packed with vegetables and layered with flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. It requires minimal watching over, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side or a standalone meal, depending on your mood or occasion.
Get the Recipe: Lecso Vegetable Stew

Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh Salad inside colorful bowls.
Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Refreshing and light, Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad is a brilliant choice for those seeking a nutritious and easy-to-prepare side. It’s packed with fresh herbs, which provide a vibrant freshness that can lighten up any meal. Perfect for those following a low-carb diet, this salad requires no cooking and can be tossed together last minute. It’s an ideal accompaniment for grilled meats or as part of a larger spread.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Steamed Artichoke

An artichoke in a bowl with lemon slices and a fork.
Steamed Artichoke. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Steamed Artichoke is a simple yet sophisticated side that often gets overlooked. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and serves up a unique taste and texture experience that is both nutritious and comforting. This vegetable acts as a wonderful palette cleanser or starter, especially when accompanied by a light dipping sauce. It’s an invitation to slow down and enjoy the simpler, finer things at mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke

Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling

Keto steamed bread on a wooden board sliced.
Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For those on a low-carb diet missing the comforting feel of bread with their meals, Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling offers a fantastic solution. These dumplings are light, airy, and a perfect companion to heavier dishes in need of a balance. They’re a testament to how versatile low-carb cooking can be, proving you don’t have to sacrifice comfort favorites while managing your intake.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling

Avocado Egg Salad

Avocado Egg Salad on a salad leaves.
Avocado Egg Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Avocado Egg Salad is a creamy, rich side dish that’s as nutritious as it is fulfilling. It goes beyond the traditional egg salad, introducing the lush texture and health benefits of avocado. This dish is a breeze to put together, making it perfect for last-minute meals or when you’re in need of a nutritious side in a pinch. It’s versatile too, serving well on its own or as a crowd-pleasing dip.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Egg Salad

Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread

Bright purple beet spread inside a ceramic bowl.
Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

If you’re looking to add a pop of color and a dash of earthy sweetness to your table, Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread is your answer. Not only does it bring a vibrant hue to the plate, but its smooth texture and rich taste make it an exceptional companion to crackers, breads, or as a veggie dip. It’s surprisingly easy to make and serves as a wonderful way to introduce more vegetables into your diet.
Get the Recipe: Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread

How To Cook Radishes

Fresh radishes.
How To Cook Radishes. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

If you’ve never considered How To Cook Radishes as a side dish, you’re missing out on a delicious and simple addition to your meals. Cooking radishes mellows their peppery bite, offering a tender, juicy alternative that pairs well with both meat and vegetarian mains. It’s an unassuming side that requires minimal effort, yet brings a pleasant and surprising element to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: How To Cook Radishes

Homemade Curd Cheese

Curd cheese inside a cup with frozen berries.
Homemade Curd Cheese. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Homemade Curd Cheese is easier to make than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to venture into the world of cheese making at home. Making your own means you’re in control of the taste and texture, allowing for a truly personalized experience. It’s a side that brings both flavor and a sense of accomplishment to the table, proving homemade is often best.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Curd Cheese

Faux Potato Salad

A white bowl of potato salad with mayonnaise.
Faux Potato Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For a lighter take on a classic comfort food, Faux Potato Salad cleverly uses alternative ingredients to mimic the traditional version. It’s a great way to enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness of potato salad without the carbs. This alternative is easy to whip up and can stand alongside any main dish, promising not to weigh you down. It’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or any meal where you’d usually find its potato-based counterpart.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad

Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Recipe

A close-up of a small, dark ceramic bowl filled with thick red BBQ sauce, on a rustic white wooden background.
Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Recipe. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

A good barbecue sauce can transform even the simplest dishes, and this Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Recipe doesn’t disappoint. It’s rich, tangy, and full of depth, making it a versatile condiment that can be used in various ways – from grilling to dipping. Being gluten-free, it’s suitable for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring no one misses out on the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Recipe

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