Ever wonder how your main dish feels when it’s paired with sides that could double as cardboard? These 17 choices bring boldness and variety, making your mains look like part of a well-thought-out masterpiece instead of the only star. The best part is these sides won’t just quietly complement your meal—they’ll bring the kind of flavor that turns “just dinner” into a table everyone remembers.
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
If your table needs a little something extra, Creamy Mashed Cauliflower is here to deliver. It’s a low-carb side that packs all the comfort of a classic with none of the heaviness. Smooth, flavorful, and versatile, it fits seamlessly into any meal. One bite, and you’ll see how it transforms an ordinary spread into something special.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Fried Cheese Balls
Adding a crunchy, golden bite to your meal instantly makes everything better. Fried Cheese Balls have a way of vanishing before you’ve even blinked, leaving everyone wondering how they went so fast. They’re a great addition to any spread, whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a fun side to a heartier dish. Just make sure you make more than you think you’ll need, because they’re bound to disappear in record time.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cheese Balls
Crispy Baked Zucchini In Oven
Zucchini doesn’t usually get this exciting, but this version might just change your mind for good. Crispy Baked Zucchini In Oven turns a simple vegetable into a crunchy, irresistible side that everyone will enjoy. It works perfectly alongside almost anything and still manages to stand out on the table. You’ll probably find yourself reaching for seconds before anyone else gets the chance.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini In Oven
Southern Ham Salad
Transform your gathering with the irresistible charm of Southern Ham Salad, a side dish that knows how to steal the spotlight. It’s a perfect blend of hearty and refreshing, making it an easy favorite among guests. Whether paired with a main dish or served solo, it’s the kind of recipe that keeps the compliments rolling in. Add this to your table, and watch it become a conversation starter that’s as flavorful as it is memorable.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Pumpkin Fries
Regular fries may be a staple, but these will have you rethinking your go-to side. Pumpkin Fries bring a seasonal twist with their crispy texture and unique flavor, making them a fun addition to any meal. They’re great for switching things up when you want something both familiar and unexpected. Once you’ve tried these, plain fries might just feel a little less exciting.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Fries
Faux Potato Salad
Sometimes you crave the classic but want something a little different, and this delivers exactly that. Faux Potato Salad offers the same comfort and nostalgic feel as the original but with a surprising twist that keeps it fresh. It’s perfect for gatherings where you want to serve something familiar yet intriguing. Everyone will be asking what makes it so unique by the time they’ve cleaned their plates.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad
Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes
These aren’t just another version of tots—they’re a side dish on a mission to impress. Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes have that perfect golden crunch that makes them impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving them alongside a main dish or offering them as a snack, they’ll be the first thing everyone grabs. Don’t be surprised if these become a household favorite after just one try.
Get the Recipe: Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes
Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish
Tangy and refreshing, this is the kind of side that adds balance to any meal. Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish stands out with its crunchy texture and zingy flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s a great way to contrast rich dishes without overshadowing them, creating the perfect harmony on your plate. Once it’s on the table, don’t be surprised when it disappears faster than you anticipated.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish
Lecso Vegetable Stew
Warm, hearty, and full of flavor, this dish is comfort food in side form. Lecso Vegetable Stew brings a richness that pairs well with almost anything, making it a versatile addition to any meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels just as at home at a casual dinner as it does at a special gathering. One taste, and you’ll understand why this has a way of making everyone feel instantly at home.
Get the Recipe: Lecso Vegetable Stew
Rutabaga Fries
Fries get a fun twist here with a side dish that feels familiar but fresh. Rutabaga Fries bring the same crispy goodness you love but with a flavor that’s just different enough to make you take notice. They’re a great way to keep things interesting without stepping too far from the classics. After trying these, you might find yourself looking for new ways to mix up your favorite fry recipes.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries
Crispy Low Carb Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free
Chips don’t have to be an afterthought, and these prove just that. Crispy Low Carb Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free give you all the crunch you’re craving while keeping things light and easy to enjoy. They’re perfect as a standalone snack or as a side that pairs beautifully with just about any dip. Once they’re on the table, expect them to be gone before you’ve even had the chance to grab a handful.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Low Carb Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free
Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower
Light and flavorful, this side proves you don’t need carbs to make a meal complete. Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower offers a simple, rewarding option that works with a wide variety of dishes. It’s a great way to add something nutritious to your plate without sacrificing taste. If you haven’t already made this a regular on your menu, you’ll be tempted to after just one try.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower
Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread
This spread is as visually striking as it is flavorful, making it a standout addition to your table. Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread doubles as a side dish and a conversation piece, bringing a unique flair to any meal. It pairs perfectly with bread or crackers while still being bold enough to enjoy on its own. Don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe after just one taste.
Get the Recipe: Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread
Steamed Artichoke
Simple yet impressive, this side has a way of standing out without needing to do too much. Steamed Artichoke is one of those dishes that feels just a little fancy while still being approachable. It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your meal without any fuss. Whether enjoyed plain or with a dip, it’s the kind of side that always gets people talking.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke
Homemade Curd Cheese
Sometimes it’s the simplest things that make the biggest impact, and this dish is a perfect example. Homemade Curd Cheese is creamy and versatile, pairing well with just about anything on your table. It’s the kind of side that feels comforting and nostalgic while still being fresh and exciting. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s worth making over and over again.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Curd Cheese
Crispy Low Carb French Fries
Fries don’t get much better than this, offering all the crunch you love without the extra heaviness. Crispy Low Carb French Fries are the perfect side for anyone looking to keep things light without giving up their favorite indulgence. They’re great for pairing with just about any dish, making them a versatile and reliable choice. Once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Low Carb French Fries
Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat
It might seem simple, but this side has a way of transforming your meal entirely. Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat is packed with flavor and works beautifully as a topping, filling, or even a standalone dish. Its versatility makes it a must-have for any table, and its bold taste will keep everyone coming back for more. Add this to your lineup, and you’ll quickly see why it’s such a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat