There’s something special about a side dish that shines just as brightly as the main course, especially during the winter months. This lineup of 17 side dishes is crafted to impress, with each one bringing its own unique flair to your table. They’re easy to whip up, full of comforting flavors, and have the potential to become the star of your meal. Forget about the mains; these sides are ready to take center stage and warm up those chilly evenings.
Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
The Classic mushroom bourekas recipe combines flaky pastry with a savory mushroom filling, ready in about an hour. Puff pastry, mushrooms, and onions create a hearty taste experience. This dish offers a textural contrast with its crispy exterior and tender interior. It’s a satisfying side that can stand up to any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
Fried Halloumi Salad
Fried Halloumi Salad brings a salty and satisfying cheese element to fresh greens, done in just 20 minutes. Halloumi cheese, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette blend for a refreshing yet robust flavor. The cheese’s firm texture contrasts with the salad’s crispness. This salad is a lively addition to any winter meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Halloumi Salad
Russian Piroshki
Russian Piroshki are hand pies filled with a comforting mixture of ingredients, taking about 2 hours to make. They’re stuffed with cabbage, eggs, and onions, offering a warm, savory bite. The soft dough encases the filling, creating a delightful contrast. These piroshki are a filling side that brings traditional Russian flavors to the table.
Get the Recipe: Russian Piroshki
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf is a wholesome dish ready in about 45 minutes. It boasts a mix of wild rice, butternut squash, and cranberries. The nutty taste of the rice complements the sweet squash. It’s a colorful side that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf
Ukrainian Cucumber Salad
Ukrainian Cucumber Salad is a fresh, dill-infused dish that can be prepared in 10 minutes. Cucumbers, dill, and sour cream are the main ingredients, offering a light, tangy taste. It provides a cool crunch, perfect alongside heavier winter dishes. This salad is a refreshing counterpoint on a hearty winter table.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Cucumber Salad
Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a classic French dish, ready in about an hour, featuring a medley of vegetables. Tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers meld together for a rich, stewed flavor. The vegetables become tender and infused with herbs. It’s a rustic and comforting side that warms any winter meal.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables take about an hour to make, highlighting the natural sweetness of seasonal produce. Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are tossed with herbs and roasted. They caramelize in the oven, resulting in a deep, sweet and savory flavor. This dish is a hearty accompaniment to any winter feast.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Root Vegetables
Root Vegetable Salad
Root Vegetable Salad is a vibrant Russian dish that’s ready in 45 minutes. Beets, carrots, and potatoes are combined with a tangy dressing. The earthy flavors of the vegetables are brightened by the acidity of the dressing. This salad adds a pop of color and flavor to the winter table.
Get the Recipe: Root Vegetable Salad
Argentinian Empanadas
Argentinian Empanadas are a versatile side, taking about 2 hours to prepare. Filled with cheese, corn, and onions, they offer a mouthful of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors. The pastry is baked to golden perfection, encasing the rich filling. These empanadas bring a touch of South American flair to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas
Easy Gluten Free Samosas
Easy gluten-free samosas are a crispy, flavorful side ready in about 1 hour. They’re filled with potatoes, peas, and spices, providing a spicy and savory taste. The gluten-free dough ensures a crunchy texture while keeping the dish accessible. These samosas are a delightful alternative to traditional winter sides.
Get the Recipe: easy gluten free samosas
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic can be made in just 20 minutes. The sprouts are paired with tangy feta and sweet pomegranate seeds, drizzled with balsamic reduction. The result is a dish with a complex flavor profile and satisfying crunch. It’s a modern twist on a classic winter vegetable.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing side, ready in 15 minutes. Kale and crisp apples are tossed in a rich, creamy dressing. The sweet and tangy flavors are balanced by the hearty texture of the kale. This salad is a bright spot in any winter meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Kale Apple Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Colombian Cheese Arepas
Colombian Cheese Arepas are a cheesy, comforting side, taking about 30 minutes to make. These cornmeal cakes are stuffed with melty cheese, offering a warm, salty bite. The arepas have a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy center. They’re a satisfying addition that brings a taste of Colombia to your table.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Cheese Arepas
Worcestershire Green Beans
Worcestershire Green Beans are a quick, flavorful side, ready in just 15 minutes. Green beans are sautéed with garlic and Worcestershire sauce for a savory kick. The beans remain crisp, providing a snappy texture. This side dish is a simple yet delicious complement to any main course.
Get the Recipe: Worcestershire Green Beans
Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
The Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy) is a rich and aromatic dish, ready in about 40 minutes. Okra is simmered in a spicy tomato-based sauce, resulting in a thick, flavorful gravy. It combines the soft texture of okra with the bold spices of Indian cuisine. This curry is a hearty side that packs a punch.
Get the Recipe: Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries
Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries is a festive side dish, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare. The natural sweetness of the potatoes and apples is enhanced by the tartness of the cranberries. The ingredients bake together, creating a caramelized and comforting flavor. This dish is a sweet and savory celebration of winter produce.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries
Roasted lemon potatoes, broccoli and peppers
Roasted lemon potatoes, broccoli, and peppers are a zesty and colorful side, ready in about 1 hour. The vegetables are roasted with lemon and herbs, which brighten their natural flavors. The potatoes are crispy, while the broccoli and peppers add a tender crunch. This combination creates a lively and wholesome addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted lemon potatoes, broccoli and peppers