19 side dishes that make any dinner special

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Some meals feel like they’re missing something, and that “something” is a side that actually brings some energy. These 19 side dishes don’t just sit quietly on the plate; they show up ready to turn dinner into a real event. They can be crunchy, comforting, or just the right amount of bold. Forget the afterthought sides—these are here to be noticed.

A plate of cooked dumpling balls garnished with chopped parsley.
Almond Flour Dumplings. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Fries

A plate of breaded and fried chicken fries garnished with herbs, served with a bowl of red dipping sauce and a green dip in the background.
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Fries. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Fries are the perfect pick if you’re aiming for something that gets crispy without the hassle of deep frying. They come out of the air fryer perfectly golden and ready to dip in your favorite sauce. It’s a no-brainer for when you want to add a little fun to your meal lineup. Plus, they are so easy to make, it’s like your kitchen does half the work for you.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Fries

Beef Bolognese Gravy

A bowl of beef bolognese gravy garnished with fresh basil.
Beef Bolognese Gravy. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

If you’re aiming to bring some serious comfort to the table, Beef Bolognese Gravy has got your back. It is hearty, rich, and perfect for those meals where you just want to feel taken care of. Spoon it over your preferred base and watch how it transforms a simple dish into something that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s a classic done right, making any dinner feel like an occasion.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bolognese Gravy

Best Air Fryer Cabbage Steak

A plate of grilled cabbage wedges topped with herbs.
Best Air Fryer Cabbage Steak. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

There’s a whole world of difference a well-prepared veggie can make to your meal, and Best Air Fryer Cabbage Steak is living proof. You get that charred, smoky edge that upgrades the humble cabbage into a star side dish. It’s a straightforward way to introduce more greens into your meals without it feeling like a chore. This recipe promises something tasty and effortless, proving simplicity often wins.
Get the Recipe: Best Air Fryer Cabbage Steak

Almond Flour Biscuits

Almond Flour Biscuits on top of each other with chives.
Almond Flour Biscuits. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Almond Flour Biscuits are here to show you that you don’t need traditional flour to whip up something soft and fluffy. These biscuits are a game-changer, offering a lighter alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture. They’re versatile enough to accompany a range of meals, turning any dinner into a slightly more special occasion. Not to mention, they’re straightforward to make, which is always a bonus.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Biscuits

Best Salsa

Salsa in a container with chips around.
Best Salsa. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For those times you want to jazz up your dishes with something fresh, Best Salsa comes to the rescue. It’s a burst of freshness you didn’t know you needed, turning the simplest of meals into something to get excited about. Just a few spoonfuls can transform even the most mundane dish into a reason to sit down and really enjoy your meal. It’s all about bringing a kick of life to the table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Best Salsa

Avocado Egg Salad

Avocado Egg Salad on a salad leaves.
Avocado Egg Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Avocado Egg Salad is not your average salad. It’s creamy, satisfying, and packs a punch of nutrients in every bite, making it a fantastic choice for a side dish or a light meal on its own. It meshes well with a variety of dishes, adding a refreshing twist to your dining experience. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to put together, which means more time enjoying your meal and less time preparing it.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Egg Salad

Beetroot Daikon Radish Pickled

A bowl filled with cubed beetroot pickled daikon radishes.
Beetroot Daikon Radish Pickled. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Looking for something unique? Beetroot Daikon Radish Pickled might just be your new go-to. This side dish brings a pop of color and an unexpected burst of taste to the table, complementing a range of meals beautifully. Its tangy and slightly sweet profile offers a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. It’s an easy way to add some excitement to your meal without needing to plan a complex dish.
Get the Recipe: Beetroot Daikon Radish Pickled

Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread

Bright purple beet spread inside a ceramic bowl.
Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For those on the lookout for something rich yet healthy, Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread is a solid pick. This spread is surprisingly versatile, great on toast, as a dip, or even a side all on its own. It brings depth and richness to the table, making it hard to believe it’s good for you. This one’s all about big, bold taste without the carbs, proving healthy choices don’t have to be boring.
Get the Recipe: Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread

Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream

Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream in a bowl with chips.
Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream takes the classic guacamole and gives it a twist that’s hard to resist. The sour cream adds a smooth richness that makes this version of guacamole a definite crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for dipping or dolloping on your favorite dishes to add an extra layer of yum. Best part? It’s super easy to whip up even when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Guacamole Dip with Sour Cream

Breaded Cauliflower

Pieces of breaded cauliflower close up.
Breaded Cauliflower. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

This dish could easily become your new favorite way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Breaded Cauliflower is crunchy, tasty, and it just might make you forget you’re eating your veggies. Perfect as a side or a snack, this recipe proves that with the right touch, cauliflower can stand out. Plus, it’s another testament to how a simple approach can yield something wonderfully enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Cauliflower

Easy Healthy Creamy Salsa Dressing

Easy Healthy Creamy Salsa Dressing in a dish with a spoon dishing it up.
Easy Healthy Creamy Salsa Dressing. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Easy Healthy Creamy Salsa Dressing proves that dressing doesn’t have to be a calorie bomb to be good. This light and creamy option brings a lively kick to salads, bowls, or grilled veggies. It’s the kind of addition that takes your meal from okay to awesome with just a drizzle. And it’s so easy to make, you’ll find yourself reaching for this option time and time again.
Get the Recipe: Easy Healthy Creamy Salsa Dressing

Faux Potato Salad

A white bowl of potato salad with mayonnaise.
Faux Potato Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Forget what you thought you knew about salad with Faux Potato Salad. This recipe offers all the comfort and heartiness of traditional potato salad but switches things up to keep it interesting. It’s a fresh take on a classic, making it a hit at any meal that calls for a side dish with a bit of nostalgia. Plus, it’s unexpectedly easy to pull off, making it accessible to any level of cooking expertise.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad

Fried Cheese Balls

Keto Fried Cheese Balls with parsley.
Fried Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Crunchy on the outside, gooey on the inside, these are a real crowd-pleaser. They’re great for when you want to shake things up a little at mealtime. Serve them up as a unique side, and watch everyone’s eyes light up. Fried Cheese Balls are just the ticket for adding a fun twist to your usual spread.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cheese Balls

Green Bean Mushroom Casserole

A plate of green bean mushroom casserole with fried onions.
Green Bean Mushroom Casserole. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Green Bean Mushroom Casserole pairs well with a main dish and gives your meal an extra kick. Perfect for when you’re looking to add something hearty to the table without too much fuss. It’s a classic choice that won’t disappoint, especially when you want to impress your guests. Think of it as a cozy addition that’s sure to be a hit at any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Mushroom Casserole

Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips

Keto Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips on a board.
Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

When you’ve got a side dish like this on the table, expect it to steal the show. They’re a solid pick for a casual yet hearty addition to any meal. Great for enjoying with friends, Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips add a homemade touch that’s hard to beat. Just the thing when you want something that brings a bit of excitement to the table.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips

Rutabaga Fries

Rutabaga Fries serves in a glass.
Rutabaga Fries. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

A healthier take on a classic side, Rutabaga Fries are as satisfying as they are unique. They bring a new dimension to your plate, whether you’re mixing them with other sides or flying solo. They’re just right for those who love trying something different. Give them a try, and you might find they’re your new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries

Homemade Cheese Spread

Homemade Cheese dip in a pink bowl with veggies on the side.
Homemade Cheese Spread. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Who doesn’t love a bit of creamy goodness to spread on their favorite bread or crackers? Homemade Cheese Spread brings a personal touch to your meal, offering comfort in every scoop. It’s versatile enough to go with a variety of dishes, enhancing your meal with minimum effort. Whip it out when you’ve got friends over, and watch it disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cheese Spread

Almond Flour Dumplings

A plate of cooked dumpling balls garnished with chopped parsley.
Almond Flour Dumplings. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Soft, pillowy, and downright homestyle, Almond Flour Dumplings are just what you need to round out your meal. They’re a solid pick for those who like a little extra heartiness on their plate. Serve them up with your favorite sauce, and watch them go down a treat. They’re great for adding that touch of comfort to dinner time.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Dumplings

Steamed Artichoke

An artichoke in a bowl with lemon slices and a fork.
Steamed Artichoke. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A simple yet sophisticated choice, Steamed Artichoke provide a subtle, earthy edge to your dinner. They’re perfect for when you’re in the mood for something lighter but still substantial. They pair well with just about anything, making them a versatile side option. Set them on your table for a touch of elegance without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke

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