If dinner feels plain, these 17 side dishes bring the flavor your table is missing

Photo of author

| Published:

You can have a great main and still end up with a forgettable meal! These 17 side dishes make sure that doesn’t happen. They’re simple, full of flavor, and way more interesting than the usual fillers. Expect people to notice—and go back for more. This is what your table’s been missing!

A plate of loaded smashed potatoes topped with sour cream, bacon bits, and chopped green chives.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Mushroom Hummus

Hummus with mushrooms and crackers on a white plate.
Mushroom Hummus. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

This Mushroom Hummus brings earthy mushrooms and sautéed garlic together for a rich, savory flavor! Its creamy texture works perfectly for dipping vegetables or spreading on bread. Preparation is simple and doesn’t take much effort. Add this side to your dinner for a deep, satisfying flavor!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Hummus

Bacon, Cheese and Spinach Tartlets

A plate of cheese and spinach tartlets on a white plate.
Bacon, Cheese and Spinach Tartlets. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender spinach shine in these Bacon, Cheese and Spinach Tartlets! Small and easy to serve, they’re ready quickly without fuss. These tartlets hold up well on the table while still tasting hearty. They’re a flavorful side that makes an evening meal more exciting!
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Cheese and Spinach Tartlets

Avocado Tuna Melts

Halved avocado filled with a creamy mixture and topped with melted cheddar cheese, placed on a wooden surface.
Avocado Tuna Melts. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Warm and cheesy, these Avocado Tuna Melts pair creamy avocado with hearty tuna! Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for a filling snack or light dinner addition. The combination of protein and healthy fats keeps each bite satisfying!
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tuna Melts

Spicy Cauliflower Bites

A plate of baked spicy cauliflower bites with red sauce next to it.
Spicy Cauliflower Bites. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Crunchy and flavorful, these Spicy Cauliflower Bites deliver a lively heat that doesn’t feel heavy! Baking brings out their crisp texture while keeping prep minimal. They can be made ahead or served immediately!
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cauliflower Bites

Goat Cheese Flatbread

A close-up of a goat cheese flatbreads topped with caramelized onions, arugula, and black blueberries, served on a white plate.
Goat Cheese Flatbread. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Creamy cheese meets a crisp base in this Goat Cheese Flatbread for a simple yet elegant side! Minimal ingredients make assembly quick and stress-free. It can sit next to main dishes or be served on its own. This flatbread brings a straightforward, savory option to your dinner!
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Flatbread

Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A gray bowl filled with roasted Brussels sprouts sprinkled with grated cheese sits on a patterned tablecloth.
Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

These Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts turn simple sprouts into a golden, crispy side! Parmesan adds nutty richness while roasting gives tender insides and slightly charred edges. Ready in just 30 minutes, it pairs easily with any main dish. Expect a bold addition that stands out at dinner!
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Pickle de Gallo

A wooden bowl filled with pickle de gallo salsa, surrounded by whole grain crackers and wooden utensils, on a white cloth.
Pickle de Gallo. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Bright and tangy, this Pickle de Gallo mixes classic pico flavors with a crisp pickle twist! It’s perfect for topping tacos, bowls, or for dipping chips. Prep takes only minutes and leftovers keep well. Add this side for a lively, fresh flavor your table will notice!
Get the Recipe: Pickle de Gallo

Fruit Pinwheels

Sliced fruit and cream cheese pinwheel sandwiches arranged on a slate serving board with fresh strawberries.
Fruit Pinwheels. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Sweet and colorful, these Fruit Pinwheels combine fresh fruit with a creamy filling in every bite! Rolling and slicing makes them an easy and neat addition to your meal. They’re handheld and convenient as a light side. This recipe adds a fresh pop of flavor and color to the table!
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pinwheels

Air Fryer Eggplant

A plate of air fryer eggplant slices topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs, served on a white plate.
Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, this Air Fryer Eggplant transforms a simple vegetable into a standout side! The air fryer keeps it light without extra oil. Prep is fast, and it holds up well throughout the week!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

A plate with roasted chicken, seasoned baby potatoes, and a lemon wedge.
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Soft, flavorful, and effortless, these Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes bring garlic and parmesan together perfectly! The slow cooker does all the work while you focus elsewhere. They pair with any main or can be served alone!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

Spinach Artichoke Dip

A baked dish with a golden-brown cheese topping is served in a patterned bowl, placed on a round white board.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

This Spinach Artichoke Dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh spinach and tender artichokes! It comes together quickly with minimal effort. Perfect for casual snacking or as a side at dinner, it holds its shape and richness!
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Sweet Potato Avocado Toast

Plate of sweet potato halves topped with guacamole, chopped tomatoes, and sesame seeds. Halved avocado and chopped tomatoes in the background.
Sweet Potato Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Crispy sweet potato slices serve as the base for this Sweet Potato Avocado Toast! Creamy avocado and a touch of lemon keep flavors fresh, while sesame seeds and jalapeño add subtle crunch and heat. Prep is simple and fast. This side brings both nourishment and vibrant flavor to your evening meal!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Avocado Toast

Parmesan Breaded Tortellini Bites

A plate of breaded parmesan tortellini bites with parsley, served with a bowl of red marinara sauce, with a checkered towel and fresh parsley in the background.
Parmesan Breaded Tortellini Bites. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Crispy on the outside with a gooey center, these Parmesan Breaded Tortellini Bites are indulgent yet easy to make! Minimal ingredients and quick prep make them a practical addition to dinner. They pair well with marinara or can be enjoyed on their own. This side adds a crunchy, cheesy option that’s hard to resist!
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Breaded Tortellini Bites

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

A white plate with vegan stuffed portobello mushrooms garnished with cherry tomatoes and parsley.
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Hearty and versatile, these Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms hold savory fillings that bake perfectly every time! Cheese is optional, making them customizable for any preference. Preparation is straightforward and stress-free!
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Loaded Smashed Potatoes

A plate of loaded smashed potatoes topped with sour cream, bacon bits, and chopped green chives.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Soft inside, golden and crispy outside, these Loaded Smashed Potatoes combine melted cheese and tangy accents for a bold flavor! Easy to bake, they fit well alongside any main dish. Bite-sized or larger portions both work for serving!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Chipotle Copycat Corn Salsa

A bowl of corn salsa with diced green peppers and red onions, served in a wooden bowl on a white cloth.
Chipotle Copycat Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Sweet corn, crisp vegetables, and lime make this Chipotle Copycat Corn Salsa refreshing and lively! Prep takes just minutes, yet it packs a noticeable flavor. Ideal as a topping or side addition, it’s easy to add to the table. Expect a colorful, bright addition that lifts any meal!
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Copycat Corn Salsa

Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels

A white plate with neatly stacked veggie pinwheel wraps filled with colorful vegetables, next to a small bowl of seeds and scattered spinach leaves.
Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

These Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels combine crisp vegetables and creamy herbed filling for a vibrant, fresh side! Tortilla wraps keep everything neat and portable. Preparation is quick and straightforward!
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels

Leave a Comment

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