Why wait for the main course when the sides have so much to offer? These 13 dishes are redefining the mealtime hierarchy, proving that sides deserve just as much attention, if not more. With bold flavors and inventive twists, they’re ready to take center stage, making every bite a celebration of taste. It’s time to give these sides the recognition they deserve and let them shine as the main attractions on your table.
Yellow Lentil Dal
Bringing warmth and richness to your table, this comforting staple combines spices and creamy lentils for a dish that’s both simple and profound. It beautifully pairs with rice or bread, making the Yellow Lentil Dal a versatile choice for any meal, proving that simplicity can be deeply flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal
Eggplant Casserole
Layers of tender eggplant with savory sauces and melty cheese create a dish that’s hard to resist, making the Eggplant Casserole a hearty option that might just overshadow the main course. It’s a delicious way to make vegetables the star of your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole
Air Fryer Asparagus
Perfectly tender-crisp Air Fryer Asparagus highlights the vegetable’s natural sweetness, enhanced with just a hint of seasoning. This game-changing method shows how easy and delicious healthy eating can be, making asparagus a quick and appealing side to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus
Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe
Offering a meaty texture with a crunchy exterior, these Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries are a delightful alternative to traditional fries. Perfect for snacking or as a side, they might just steal the spotlight from the main dish with their unique flavor and satisfying crunch.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe
Wild Rice Casserole
A sophisticated yet comforting side, the Wild Rice Casserole combines wild rice, vegetables, and sometimes nuts for an elegant texture contrast. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a hearty and flavorful addition to their meal, bringing a touch of class to the table.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole
Cauliflower Steaks
Seasoned and roasted Cauliflower Steaks offer a bold and satisfying option for those looking to diversify their plate. They provide a visually stunning and flavorful addition to any meal, showcasing that vegetables can indeed be both hearty and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks
Minestrone Soup
Full of vegetables, beans, and pasta, Minestrone Soup embodies homemade comfort in a bowl, versatile enough to serve as a main. It’s a hearty option that brings warmth and nutrition to any meal, inviting everyone to enjoy a spoonful of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
With crispy edges and fluffy centers, Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a testament to the potato’s incredible versatility. They pair wonderfully with almost anything, turning a simple ingredient into a standout side that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole melds tender zucchini with a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer for a comforting and pleasurable vegetable dish. It’s a delectable way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
Achieving a perfect balance of sweetness and tenderness, Air Fryer Glazed Carrots are an irresistible side dish. This method brings out their best flavors, proving carrots can be a simple yet sophisticated addition to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
7 Layer Salad
A visually appealing and layered 7 Layer Salad offers something for everyone with its mix of fresh vegetables, cheese, and often bacon. It’s a colorful and crave-worthy addition that brings fun and flavor to any table, making salads exciting again.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Baked Potato
The humble Baked Potato becomes a blank canvas for a myriad of toppings, transforming from a simple side to a satisfying main with just a few additions. It showcases the potato’s versatility and comfort, proving a little creativity can go a long way.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato
Stuffed Peppers
Filled with an array of meats, grains, vegetables, and cheese, Stuffed Peppers are a vibrant, flavorful dish that offers a balanced meal in every bite. This colorful dish is a delicious way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures, all packed into one neat package.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers