These 21 easy sides & salads make your meals so satisfying

Photo of author

| Published:

Are you tired of lackluster meals that leave you feeling unsatisfied? Look no further! Come explore a variety of easy sides and salads that are guaranteed to upgrade your dining experience. Whether you’re seeking vibrant salads bursting with fresh flavors or comforting sides brimming with hearty goodness, these recipes are designed to make every meal a truly satisfying and enjoyable affair. From crisp salads to creamy potatoes, there’s something here for everyone. So, let’s make every meal a memorable one together!

Seafood pasta salad in white serving bowl.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Dive into the freshness of Shrimp Macaroni Salad, a delightful addition to any meal that enhances satisfaction with its flavorful combination of seafood and pasta. This dish is perfect for those seeking a hearty yet refreshing side to complement their main course. With succulent shrimp and tender macaroni tossed in a creamy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and easy to prepare, making it suitable for busy weeknights or leisurely gatherings alike. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a standalone salad, Shrimp Macaroni Salad elevates your dining experience with its satisfying flavors.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

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

Add delicious flavor with Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage, a savory side dish that enhances meal satisfaction with its crispy texture and smoky flavor. This recipe combines the crunchiness of cabbage with the richness of bacon, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled steak or roasted chicken, it adds a flavorful twist to your meal. With its simple preparation and short cooking time in the air fryer, Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage is a convenient option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cabbage and bacon in white serving bowl.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Savor the comforting flavors of Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon, a classic side dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your meals. This recipe features tender cabbage sautéed with crispy bacon and aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Perfect for Southern-inspired feasts or simple family dinners, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. With its homestyle cooking and soulful flavors, Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is sure to become a favorite addition to your collection of easy sides and salads.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts on a white plate.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Enjoy the crispy goodness of Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, a nutritious side dish that adds satisfaction to your meals with its crunchy texture and savory flavor. These Brussels sprouts are seasoned and air-fried to perfection, resulting in a delicious and guilt-free alternative to traditional frying methods. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or alongside your favorite entrees, they’re a flavorful addition that’s quick and easy to prepare. With their addictive crunch and irresistible taste, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are sure to become a staple on your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Vegan Mexican Rice

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

Treat yourself to the vibrant flavors of Vegan Mexican Rice, a satisfying side dish that enhances mealtime enjoyment with its spicy kick and hearty texture. This recipe features fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, spices, and vegetables, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos or enchiladas, it adds a burst of color and flavor to your plate. With its plant-based ingredients and simple preparation, Vegan Mexican Rice is a versatile option for those seeking delicious and satisfying meals without meat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

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

Get the crispy goodness of Air Fryer Potato Wedges, a delicious side dish that up meal satisfaction with its golden-brown perfection and fluffy interior. These potato wedges are seasoned and air-fried to crispy perfection, resulting in a guilt-free alternative to traditional frying methods. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or alongside your favorite burgers, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. With their crunchy exterior and soft interior, Air Fryer Potato Wedges are a satisfying addition to any meal, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Red Skin Potato Salad

Red potato salad in bowl with bacon and parsley garnish.
Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Dig into Red Skin Potato Salad, a classic side dish that brings satisfaction to your meals with its creamy texture and tangy flavor. This recipe features tender red potatoes tossed with a creamy dressing and flavorful seasonings, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or alongside grilled chicken, it’s a versatile option that complements a variety of dishes. With its simple preparation and refreshing taste, Red Skin Potato Salad is sure to become a favorite among family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

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

Level up your meal with green beans and garlic butter, a flavorful side dish that perfectly complements any main course. The combination of tender green beans and savory garlic butter makes this dish a delightful addition to your dining experience. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this recipe, which is quick to prepare and requires minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these green beans will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients and flavor, making them a wholesome and delicious choice.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Air Fryer Home Fries

Air-fried potato cubes with diced green bell peppers on plate.
Air Fryer Home Fries. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Add a crispy and comforting touch to your meal with Air Fryer Home Fries, a delicious side dish that pairs well with any entree. These home fries are seasoned to perfection and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. Enjoy the ease and convenience of preparing this dish, which requires minimal ingredients and cooking time. Whether you’re serving breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these home fries will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, they’re versatile and customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Home Fries

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

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

Refresh your palate with Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing, a vibrant and nutritious salad that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. This salad features a colorful mix of fresh berries tossed with a tangy blueberry dressing, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Enjoy the lightness and freshness of this salad, which is quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal side dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or alongside your main course, this berry salad will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making it a healthy and delicious choice.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

Aloo Gobi Masala

Aloo gobi masala in skillet with naan bread.
Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Spice up your mealtime with Aloo Gobi Masala, a flavorful Indian-inspired dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. This dish features tender potatoes and cauliflower cooked in a rich and aromatic blend of spices, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish, which pairs perfectly with rice or bread for a complete meal. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to try something new, Aloo Gobi Masala will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and ingredients, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Roasted cabbage steaks on a platter.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Discover a new way to enjoy cabbage with Roasted Cabbage Steaks, a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s sure to impress. These cabbage steaks are seasoned with herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection in the oven until golden and caramelized. Enjoy the hearty and satisfying texture of this dish, which pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re a cabbage lover or looking to add more veggies to your diet, these cabbage steaks will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and cook in just minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Green Bean Casserole

Two bowls of green bean casserole on a cutting board.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Dive into comfort food heaven with Green Bean Casserole, a classic dish that’s perfect for any family gathering or holiday feast. This casserole features tender green beans smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Enjoy the nostalgia and warmth of this dish, which is sure to become a favorite among your loved ones. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this green bean casserole will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Easy Radish Salad

Easy Radish Salad on plate with glass of water.
Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Add a pop of color and crunch to your meal with Easy Radish Salad, a refreshing and vibrant side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This salad features crisp radishes tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this dish, which pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own, this radish salad will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

Ratatouille

A blue Bowl of Vegan Ratatouille.
Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Treat yourself to Ratatouille, a colorful and flavorful vegetable dish that adds vibrancy to any meal. This dish is packed with a variety of seasonal vegetables, cooked to perfection and bursting with natural flavors. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of Ratatouille, which is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a perfect addition to your dinner table. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this dish will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables, making it versatile and adaptable to any taste preferences.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Small baking dish with scalloped potatoes.
Easy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Get pure comfort food with these Easy Scalloped Potatoes, a classic dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. These potatoes are thinly sliced and layered with a rich and savory sauce, then baked to golden perfection. Enjoy the heartiness and warmth of this dish, which pairs perfectly with any main course. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a family dinner or a holiday feast, these scalloped potatoes will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy cooks.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli Salad with bacon on a plate.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Up your salad game with Broccoli Salad with Bacon, a crunchy and flavorful dish that’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. This salad features crisp broccoli florets tossed with crispy bacon, red onions, and a creamy dressing, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this salad, which is quick and easy to prepare. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light lunch, Broccoli Salad with Bacon will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a healthy and delicious choice.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli Slaw Salad

A plate of broccoli slaw with a dressing on it.
Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Add a refreshing twist to your meal with Broccoli Slaw Salad, a crunchy and colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad features a mix of shredded broccoli, carrots, and cabbage, tossed with a tangy dressing and crunchy toppings. Enjoy the lightness and freshness of this salad, which pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, potluck, or family dinner, Broccoli Slaw Salad will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

Green Bean Tomato Salad

Green beans and tomatoes on a white plate.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Brighten up your plate with Green Bean Tomato Salad, a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer. This salad features crisp green beans, juicy tomatoes, and tangy vinaigrette, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this salad, which is quick and easy to prepare. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light lunch, Green Bean Tomato Salad will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a healthy and delicious choice.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Seafood Pasta Salad

Seafood pasta salad in white serving bowl.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Dive into a sea of flavors with Seafood Pasta Salad, a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This salad features tender pasta, mixed with an assortment of seafood and crisp vegetables, tossed in a zesty dressing. Enjoy the abundance of flavors and textures in this dish, which is sure to please seafood lovers. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, Seafood Pasta Salad will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it versatile and adaptable to any taste preferences.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

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

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes, a decadent and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any meal. These potatoes are baked until tender, then hollowed out and filled with a creamy mixture of cheese, bacon, and sour cream. Enjoy the richness and flavor of this dish, which pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a snack, Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes will make your meals so satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a crowd-pleasing option.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Leave a Comment

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