Some mains show up to dinner like they own the place, but not without backup. With 19 side recipes in rotation, no plate feels half-dressed or forgotten again. Whether it’s a dinner that needs color, crunch, or something to stop your uncle from asking if that’s all, this list covers the gaps. Even the pickiest eater will find something else to talk about besides what’s missing.
Gnocchi
If you fancy something a little different from pasta, why not go for Gnocchi? They’re small and soft dough dumplings that can be the star on any dinner plate. They pair seamlessly with a variety of sauces and can easily be made vegan or gluten-free. Their versatility in the kitchen makes them a go-to side dish that offers both comfort and a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi
Crunchy Onion Rings
Introducing Crunchy Onion Rings can add a playful twist to your meal. These crispy treats are perfect for nibbling on while the main course is being prepared. Ideal for dipping, they come with a satisfying crunch that can liven up even the simplest of meals. Kids and adults alike will appreciate their familiar yet indulgent taste.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Hasselback Potatoes
Who doesn’t love a potato with a twist? Hasselback Potatoes bring a visually impressive element to your spread, with their accordion-like appearance. Not only do they look great, but they also have the perfect mix of crispy edges and tender center. This side dish is sure to catch everyone’s attention and keep them coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes
Antipasto Salad
Inject a burst of Mediterranean flair with Antipasto Salad. This dish is a combination of bright colors and varied textures that complement any meal. It’s a great way to start a gathering as it encourages guests to pick and choose their favorite bites. This salad isn’t just about variety; it’s a communal experience that invites conversation.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Dauphinoise Potatoes
For those who enjoy the richer things in life, Dauphinoise Potatoes are a must-try. This side dish hails from the French cuisine and offers a creamy taste without overpowering the main dish. It’s a comforting addition to any meal and is especially warming during colder days. This hearty side can also be a talking point for those who appreciate classic French dishes.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes
Focaccia Bread
Look no further than Focaccia Bread when you want to bring a homemade touch to your table. This bread is not just about filling up – it’s a conversation starter, with its dimpled surface and fluffy texture. It’s an excellent choice for mopping up sauces or enjoying with a touch of olive oil. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked bread is undeniably welcoming.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Any gathering can be instantly upgraded with some Bacon Wrapped Smokies. They are a fun, bite-sized treat that can act as a prelude to the main meal. Each miniature sausage is wrapped in bacon for a perfect savory combination. They can easily be prepped ahead of time, making them convenient for hosts who want to mingle instead of cook.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Funeral Potatoes
Funeral Potatoes may have a somber name, but they bring nothing but joy to the table. This comfort dish is creamy and covered with a crunchy topping, hitting all the right notes of texture and flavor. It’s a potluck favorite and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You’ll find guests asking for the recipe before they’ve finished their first serving.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Brighten up your feast with Red Cabbage Coleslaw. It’s a colorful side dish that offers a fresh crunch to balance out heavier entrees. This side dish is not only good-looking but also offers a slight tang that can cleanse the palate. It’s great for BBQs or as a refreshing counterpoint to rich dishes, ensuring your plate has a burst of color and freshness.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Cilantro Lime Rice
Add a tangy kick to your spread with Cilantro Lime Rice. Its light and fragrant appeal can upgrade a simple meal to something more exotic. This side dish is refreshing and subtle, making it an excellent accompaniment to spicy or hearty main dishes. It’s a simple yet effective way to inject some lively flavor into your mealtime routine.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed Potatoes are the quintessential side dish that can accompany any main entrée. They’re creamy, smooth, and can be customized to include garlic, cheese, or herbs for added flavor. Perfect for making ahead, they fit seamlessly into any meal plan. This dish also provides the ultimate comfort food experience, evoking fond memories of home-cooked meals.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasting always brings out the best in vegetables, and that’s especially true for Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. The natural sugars caramelize in the oven, creating a deep, rich flavor. They’re simple yet impressive and provide a colorful addition to your dinner table. By highlighting seasonal produce, this side dish not only tastes good but is also visually appealing.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Sourdough Bread
Sourdough Bread comes with its distinct taste and chewy texture that bread lovers cherish. It goes beyond your average loaf with a tangy flavor profile, making it a unique addition to any meal. Whether used for dipping into soups or spreading with butter, it’s versatile. Moreover, the artisanal aspect of sourdough bread gives a rustic feel to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice
You can’t go wrong with Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice as part of your meal. It’s known for its distinctive aroma and adds an exotic touch to your plate. This rice is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine and pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, offering a subtle fragrance that’s both comforting and luxurious. It serves as a delicate bed for rich, saucy entrees, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice
Dense Bean Salad
Dense Bean Salad is a hearty side that’s both nutritious and filling. It’s rich in flavors and can stand up to bold entrees without getting lost on the plate. This salad is perfect for those who prefer a plant-based protein boost in their meals. It’s also a great option for make-ahead meals, as the flavors continue to meld and improve over time.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad
Mexican Street Corn
Adding Mexican Street Corn to the menu can be a playful and interactive side. It’s smothered in flavorful toppings and usually served on a stick, perfect for eating with your hands. This dish is a street food favorite that brings a fun atmosphere to your dining table. It’s excellent for outdoor events or casual dining, and sure to be a conversation starter among guests.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn
Bread Stuffing
Bread Stuffing isn’t just for holiday dinners; it can add depth to any meal. It absorbs the flavors of herbs and broth, creating a moist and aromatic side. Guests tend to heap their plates with this comforting favorite. Plus, it’s a great way to round out a special meal or make an everyday dinner feel a little more festive.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing
Potato Salad
When you think of classic side dishes, Potato Salad often comes to mind. It’s a versatile dish that can be dressed up with herbs, spices or even a bit of crunch. Its cool and creamy texture complements grilled foods exceptionally well. Every spoonful offers a comforting hug, making it ideal for family gatherings or relaxed lunches.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad
Hawaiian Baked Beans
Hawaiian Baked Beans take a traditional side and give it a tropical twist. This side dish is more than just beans – it’s infused with a hint of sweetness that sets it apart from its classic counterpart. It can serve as the perfect companion to smoky meats or a solo star in a vegetarian spread. This dish delivers a taste of island flavor without the need for a passport.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans