28 sides and salads that will be your new dinner staples

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Looking to spice up your dinner routine? These sides and salads are the perfect way to add variety and flavor to your meals without extra hassle. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family, these easy-to-make dishes will quickly become your new go-to staples.

A bowl of creamy pasta with a fork resting inside.
Dairy Free Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Rice

A spoonful of slow-cooked white rice held above a bowl, with a fresh green parsley leaf in the background.
Slow Cooker Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This slow cooker rice is a hands-off, hassle-free way to make a perfect side dish. It cooks on its own while you focus on other parts of your meal, saving you time and effort. With just a few ingredients, it’s simple to prepare and complements almost any dinner. The rice turns out fluffy and tender every time, making it a great addition to your dinner routine. It’s an easy way to make rice without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

A salad with strawberries, blueberries and feta cheese.
Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This sweet and tangy berry salad is a refreshing side that adds a pop of color to your plate. Packed with fresh berries and topped with a homemade blueberry dressing, it’s quick and simple to prepare. It’s a great side dish for summer meals or anytime you want something light and fruity. The dressing adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the freshness of the berries. It’s a fun and easy way to enjoy fruit with your dinner.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

Dairy Free Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy penne pasta with a fork, placed on a textured surface.
Dairy Free Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy, dairy-free mac and cheese is a comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish. It’s easy to make and features a rich, velvety sauce without any dairy. The cheesy texture comes from simple, plant-based ingredients, making it perfect for those looking for a dairy-free option. It’s a great side to pair with just about any main dish and is quick to put together. It’s a reliable go-to when you need a cozy side in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Mac and Cheese

Crab Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat.
Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This flavorful crab fried rice makes a delicious and satisfying side for any Asian-inspired meal. It’s quick to make, with tender rice, succulent crab, and veggies all cooked together. The combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors is sure to please everyone. It’s a great way to use leftover rice and turn it into a new dish. This easy recipe is a standout side that can easily be made for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Ratatouille

Close-up of a wooden spoon holding ratatouille, featuring chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, garnished with parsley.
Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This colorful vegetable medley is a perfect side dish that brings both flavor and nutrition to your table. With tender roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and peppers, it’s easy to prepare and pairs well with many meals. The slow-cooked dish lets the flavors meld together, making it a comforting addition to any dinner. It’s simple to make, yet full of flavor. It’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your meals.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes garnished with parsley, set on a pink cloth napkin, with whole potatoes and a grater in the background.
Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These creamy garlic mashed red potatoes are a classic side that’s both easy and comforting. With just a few ingredients, you can make a smooth and flavorful mash that’s perfect for pairing with any main dish. The garlic adds a nice depth of flavor without overpowering the potatoes. It’s an easy, hands-off side that will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. These mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit every time.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potato stuffed with black beans and corn.
Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These vegan taco stuffed sweet potatoes are a unique and tasty side dish that can easily stand on their own. The combination of sweet potatoes and flavorful taco-seasoned veggies makes for a hearty and satisfying option. They’re simple to prepare and offer a fun twist on traditional sides. The sweet and savory flavors come together perfectly in this easy-to-make dish. It’s a fresh way to enjoy a plant-based side at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Salmon Salad

A grilled salmon fillet served on a bed of fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and olives on a white plate.
Salmon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This light and healthy salmon salad is perfect when you’re looking for something fresh and easy. The combination of tender salmon, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing is simple yet flavorful. It pairs perfectly with a variety of meals, adding a refreshing element to your dinner. The salad is quick to assemble and makes for a great side to seafood or grilled meats. It’s a versatile dish that can be made in no time.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Chopped Greek Salad

A fresh greek salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, olives, and peppers, served with a fork and a glass of water on the side.
Chopped Greek Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This chopped Greek salad is packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and a tangy dressing. It’s quick to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. The fresh ingredients make it light, but the bold flavors keep it interesting. Whether you serve it with chicken or fish, it’s an easy way to add flavor and crunch to your dinner. It’s a dependable salad you’ll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Greek Salad

Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

Tongs holding roasted asparagus with grated cheese on a white platter, surrounded by lemon slices.
Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This oven-baked asparagus with parmesan is a simple, flavorful side that cooks up easily. The crispy, cheesy topping adds just the right amount of flavor to the tender asparagus. It’s quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with almost any main course. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus while adding a satisfying crunch. It’s a great side dish that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

Green Bean Casserole

A ramekin of green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions, served on a wooden table.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This green bean casserole is a classic that’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s made with fresh green beans, a creamy sauce, and crispy fried onions, making it a comforting and hearty side. The casserole bakes easily in the oven, and the flavors meld together perfectly. It’s a great addition to any family dinner, offering a familiar taste everyone loves. This side dish is sure to become a staple at your table.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer potato wedges are the perfect crispy side that’s quick to make. With minimal prep, you can enjoy perfectly crispy wedges that pair well with nearly any main dish. The air fryer makes them extra crunchy without the need for a lot of oil. They’re easy to prepare and cook in no time, making them a great choice for busy weeknights. These potato wedges are simple, satisfying, and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green beans with pine nuts on a plate.
Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These green beans with garlic butter are a quick and flavorful side that complements any meal. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich flavor to the tender green beans. It’s a simple dish to put together and takes very little time to prepare. The fresh green beans are cooked just right, making them a perfect side for dinner. This easy recipe will quickly become a staple in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Four twice baked potatoes in a small baking dish.
Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These twice-baked potatoes are loaded with cheese, bacon, and all the comforting flavors you crave. They’re simple to prepare and make a hearty side dish that pairs well with just about anything. The cheesy filling and crispy potato skin come together perfectly in this crowd-pleasing dish. You can make them ahead of time and bake them right before serving. They’re a great way to add extra flavor and substance to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer smashed potatoes with cheese are a crispy and cheesy side that’s both easy and satisfying. The air fryer cooks the potatoes quickly, giving them a golden, crunchy texture. Topped with melted cheese, they make a great complement to any dinner. They’re simple to prepare and are a perfect option when you want a comforting side without spending too much time in the kitchen. These smashed potatoes are sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans tossed with cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, accompanied by a fork, on a white surface.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This fresh green bean tomato salad is a light and vibrant side dish that’s quick to make. The combination of crisp green beans and juicy tomatoes is refreshing and flavorful. It’s perfect for pairing with grilled meats or other lighter meals. The salad comes together in no time and is a great way to add vegetables to your dinner. It’s a simple, no-fuss dish that will quickly become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air-fried brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese on a white plate.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer Brussels sprouts are crispy, golden, and a great side for any meal. The air fryer makes them quick to cook while preserving their natural flavor and texture. They’re easy to prepare and require minimal effort, making them a great addition to your dinner routine. The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the tender inside, making them a satisfying side. This simple side dish is a great way to enjoy Brussels sprouts without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background.
Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These maple glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that’s easy to prepare. The air fryer cooks them quickly, giving them a tender texture with a touch of caramelization. The maple glaze adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory meals. They’re a simple, hands-off side that requires minimal prep. This quick and easy dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Red Skin Potato Salad

Bowl of potato salad garnished with fresh herbs and bacon on a white background.
Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy red skin potato salad is a simple, comforting side that’s perfect for any dinner. The red skin potatoes add a nice texture, while the creamy dressing brings it all together. It’s easy to make ahead of time and is always a crowd-pleaser. This potato salad can be made in just a few steps and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It’s a go-to side dish that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

Apple Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, air-fried apples, red onions, nuts, and crumbled cheese.
Apple Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This refreshing apple salad is light yet flavorful, making it a perfect side for any meal. The crisp apples, combined with a tangy dressing, create a fresh and satisfying dish. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights. The balance of sweetness and tartness will complement a wide range of main dishes. It’s a simple side that adds a fresh twist to your dinner.
Get the Recipe: Apple Salad

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Two halves of baked sweet potato topped with butter and garnished with herbs on a white plate, with a red checkered napkin on the side.
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer sweet potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect side for any meal. The air fryer cooks them quickly, so you can have a comforting side in no time. They’re simple to prepare and pack plenty of flavor without much effort. The sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, and the air fryer gives them a satisfying texture. It’s an easy, healthy side that will quickly become a dinner staple.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Zucchini Bruschetta

Baked zucchini bruschetta topped with chopped tomatoes, herbs, and grated cheese on a parchment-lined tray.
Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This zucchini bruschetta is a light and fresh side that’s easy to prepare. The zucchini, combined with a tangy dressing and fresh herbs, makes for a flavorful dish. It’s a perfect side for summer meals and pairs well with grilled meats. The simple ingredients come together quickly for a dish that adds a nice touch of freshness to your dinner. This zucchini bruschetta is a great way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli salad with bacon bits on a white oval plate, accompanied by a wooden serving spoon on a linen napkin.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This broccoli salad with bacon is a hearty, flavorful side that’s easy to make. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch to the tender broccoli, while the dressing ties everything together. It’s quick to prepare and pairs well with grilled meats or hearty mains. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite side dish. This salad is perfect when you need a simple yet satisfying addition to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This bacon-wrapped cabbage is a savory, crispy side that’s easy to make in the air fryer. The bacon crisps up perfectly, adding a delicious layer of flavor to the cabbage. It’s quick to prepare and cooks up in no time, making it a great option for busy evenings. The smoky bacon flavor infuses the cabbage, making it a standout side. This unique dish will quickly become a go-to side for your meals.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, served on a white plate garnished with parsley.
Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer roasted Roma tomatoes are a simple yet flavorful side. They cook quickly in the air fryer, allowing the tomatoes to soften and develop a rich flavor. With minimal preparation, they pair perfectly with pasta dishes, meats, or even on their own. The roasted tomatoes have a deep, roasted taste that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. They’re an excellent addition to your dinner menu.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Bacon Green Beans

Close-up of a plate with sautéed green beans and bacon pieces, with a fork spearing a few beans.
Bacon Green Beans. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bacon green beans are a savory and satisfying side that’s quick and easy to make. The crispy bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor to the tender green beans. It’s a simple dish that pairs well with almost any main course. You can prepare it in no time, making it a great addition to a busy dinner. This flavorful side will be a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Green Beans

Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Close-up of a spoonful of sweet potato casserole with a topping of toasted pecans and marshmallows.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This sweet potato casserole with canned yams is a comforting side that’s easy to make. The creamy texture and sweetness of the yams come together perfectly with the topping. It’s quick to assemble and bake, making it a great side for any meal. The sweet and savory flavors are a hit, and it’s a perfect addition to your dinner table. This casserole is simple to prepare and a classic crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Vegan Mexican Rice

Mexican rice in small oval serving dish with spoon.
Vegan Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This vegan Mexican rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make side dish that pairs well with any main. The rice is cooked with spices, tomatoes, and a touch of lime for a zesty, vibrant flavor. It’s quick to make, with simple ingredients that come together easily. This rice is a great addition to Mexican meals or any dinner that could use a flavorful side. It’s a simple, tasty option you can count on.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

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