Side dishes that shine – 17 recipes to complete your meal

Photo of author

| Published:

Side dishes don’t have to blend into the background; these 17 recipes are proof that they can shine just as brightly as the main course. They’re versatile, fulfilling, and guaranteed to get everyone talking around the table. With options that work for all kinds of meals, there’s no excuse for boring sides anymore. Serve up one of these, and your meal will feel whole, no matter what’s on the menu.

Cheese Puffs in a bowl with fresh parsley.
Cheese Puffs Air Fryer. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

A bowl filled with creamy mashed cauliflower.
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

When you need a side that stands out, Creamy Mashed Cauliflower steps up to the plate. It’s smooth, simple, and pairs perfectly with any main dish. Swapping out the usual for this lighter option keeps things interesting without missing a beat. Let this dish be the one that completes your meal while still stealing a little spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Fried Cheese Balls

Keto Fried Cheese Balls with parsley.
Fried Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Who doesn’t love a cheesy delight that’s golden and crispy on the outside? Fried Cheese Balls are what dreams are made of for cheese lovers. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizers that make you reach for one more every time. Plus, they’re bound to be a hit at any gathering, promising a moment of joy with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cheese Balls

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.

Making sure everyone’s appetizer game is strong, these Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes are a game changer. They bring the much-loved potato taste with a crunch that’s unbeatable. Ideal for dipping, they turn any meal into a fun eat-with-your-hands experience. And let’s be honest, who can resist something that crunchy and potato-filled?
Get the Recipe: Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes

Almond Flour Taco Shells

Almond Flour Keto Taco Shells on a white board.
Almond Flour Taco Shells. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Taco nights just got a makeover with Almond Flour Taco Shells. These shells are not just about holding your favorite fillings; they’re a statement of health and taste coming together. Ideal for those looking for gluten-free options, they make taco indulging worry-free. It’s about enjoying your taco without compromising on your dietary choices.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Taco Shells

Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

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

For those who love their greens but also a good crunch, Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven is the answer. They are a healthier take on snacks, giving you both nutrition and texture. Perfect for a light side or a guilt-free munch, they’ll make you see zucchini in a whole new light. Plus, their crunch is seriously addictive, making them a crowd-favorite in no time.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream

Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream in a bowsl with chips.
Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Who said dips have to be complicated? Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream proves that great flavors can come from simple combinations. It’s creamy, it’s tangy, and it’s got that fresh kick everyone loves. Perfect for parties or a quiet night in, it’s a versatile side that pairs well with almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream

Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat

Ground Beef Taco Meat inside a white plate with smaller bowls of veggies and sauces.
Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Gone are the days of bland taco fillings. Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat brings flavor back to the table with a richness that’s hard to beat. It’s savory, it’s juicy, and it’s your taco’s best friend. Whether it’s taco Tuesday or any day really, this filling makes every bite count.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat

Buffalo Ranch Sauce Recipe

A bowl of Buffalo Ranch Sauce garnished with herbs, on a white cloth background.
Buffalo Ranch Sauce Recipe. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Sometimes, all you need to bring a dish together is the right sauce. Buffalo Ranch Sauce Recipe is a bold, tangy option that brings life to any meal. It’s perfect for drizzling or dipping, transforming mundane dishes into something extraordinary. If you’re looking to add some excitement to your meal, this sauce is your go-to.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Ranch Sauce Recipe

Crispy Low Carb Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free

Keto Tortilla Chips with gucamole behind.
Crispy Low Carb Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For those seeking a guilt-free crunch, Crispy Low Carb Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free have got you covered. They’re the perfect companion to your favorite dip or just as good solo. These chips prove that being mindful of your eating habits doesn’t mean you have to give up on taste. They’re a win-win for your health and your snack cravings.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Low Carb Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free

Homemade Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing in a glass bowl with sticks of veggies.
Homemade Ranch Dressing. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Say goodbye to store-bought dressings and hello to Homemade Ranch Dressing. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and it has the power to upgrade any salad from good to unforgettable. Not just for salads, it’s a versatile condiment that works wonders on almost everything it touches. Homemade means you get to enjoy it guilt-free, knowing exactly what’s in your dressing.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ranch Dressing

Steamed Artichoke

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

Cooking this vegetable might look intimidating, but it’s quite simple and adds elegance to any meal. Steamed Artichoke makes for an interactive side dish that impresses guests with its unique presentation and delicious taste. It’s all about enjoying the process of peeling off the leaves and reaching that tender heart.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke

Almond Flour Biscuits

Almond Flour Biscuits on top of each other with chives.
Almond Flour Biscuits. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Introducing a bread alternative that won’t leave you feeling heavy, Almond Flour Biscuits are light, fluffy, and utterly fulfilling. They’re a testament to how delicious healthy eating can be. Perfect for those avoiding gluten, they ensure you don’t miss out on the joys of a good biscuit. Enjoy them as a side or just on their own – they’re that good.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Biscuits

Homemade Curd Cheese

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

Ever thought about making your own cheese? Homemade Curd Cheese is a simple pleasure that’s not only rewarding but also delicious. It’s creamy, it’s versatile, and it adds a personal touch to any dish it accompanies. Whether you’re spreading it on a cracker or incorporating it into recipes, it’s a wonderful way to upgrade your meals.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Curd Cheese

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.

Barbecue doesn’t have to mean off-limits for the gluten-intolerant. With Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Recipe, everyone gets to partake in the smoky, rich flavors that make BBQ so beloved. This sauce is proof that dietary restrictions don’t have to mean sacrificing deliciousness. It’s great for grilling season or adding a tasty twist to your meals year-round.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Recipe

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Recipe Skewers Style

Bacon wrapped brussels sprouts on skewers.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Recipe Skewers Style. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Adding a fun twist to a classic combo, Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Recipe Skewers Style makes eating your greens something to look forward to. They’re smoky, they’re savory, and they’re just the right amount of crispy. It’s a side dish that might just steal the show, proving that vegetables can be the star too. Ideal for those looking to mix up their veggie intake with something a bit more indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Recipe Skewers Style

Cheese Puffs Air Fryer

Cheese Puffs in a bowl with fresh parsley.
Cheese Puffs Air Fryer. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Welcome to the future of crunchy, cheesy snacks. Cheese Puffs Air Fryer are here to revolutionize your snack time with less oil and all the flavor. They’re a quick, easy treat that’s bound to become a staple for any snack lover. Imagine popping one of these airy delights into your mouth and not feeling an ounce of snack guilt.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Puffs Air Fryer

Purple Pickled Daikon Radish

Purple daikon in a bowl on a white background.
Purple Pickled Daikon Radish. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

If you’re aiming to add a pop of color and a punch of flavor to your meal, Purple Pickled Daikon Radish is your pick. It’s tangy, it’s crunchy, and it brings a refreshing contrast to any dish it accompanies. Great for adding a bit of zing to heavier meals or simply to enjoy as a unique side. It’s a simple way to make your mealtime more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Purple Pickled Daikon Radish

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.