15 side dishes that spark conversation at the dinner table

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Are you tired of the same old side dishes stealing the spotlight at dinner? Well, get ready to shake things up with delicious side dishes that are sure to spark conversation at your dinner table! These dishes are not only delicious but also bring a sense of excitement and novelty to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a dinner party with friends, or simply looking to change up your weeknight dinners, these side dishes are guaranteed to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive in and explore a world of flavor and creativity that will make every meal memorable.

Sliced roasted cabbage steaks seasoned with herbs and spices on a white plate.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans tossed with cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, accompanied by a fork, on a white surface.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Add a burst of freshness to your dinner table with this vibrant Green Bean Tomato Salad, a colorful and flavorful side dish that’s sure to impress. Featuring crisp green beans, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing, this salad is perfect for summer picnics or backyard barbecues. With its simple preparation and bright flavors, it’s an easy choice for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Ratatouille

Close-up of a wooden spoon holding ratatouille, featuring chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, garnished with parsley.
Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Transport yourself to the south of France with this classic Ratatouille, a rustic and flavorful side dish that’s sure to spark conversation at the dinner table. Made with a medley of seasonal vegetables and fragrant herbs, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether served as a side or a main course, it’s a versatile option that’s perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

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

These Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes are a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for side dishes that spark conversation at the dinner table, offering a comforting and indulgent twist on classic baked potatoes. With their creamy texture and gooey cheese topping, they’re sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Zucchini Bruschetta

Baked zucchini bruschetta topped with chopped tomatoes, herbs, and grated cheese on a parchment-lined tray.
Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Wow your guests with this unique Zucchini Bruschetta, a fresh and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Featuring grilled zucchini, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this bruschetta is a delicious twist on the classic appetizer. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to spark conversation and impress even the most discerning palates.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Aloo Gobi Masala

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

Spice up your dinner table with this flavorful Aloo Gobi Masala, a classic Indian side dish that’s sure to impress. Made with potatoes, cauliflower, and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is bursting with flavor and texture. Whether served as a side or a main course, it’s a versatile option that’s perfect for adding excitement to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese are a delicious and conversation-worthy addition to any meal, offering a crispy and cheesy twist on classic smashed potatoes. With their golden brown crust and gooey cheese topping, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and cook up in no time in the air fryer, making them a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, served on a white plate garnished with parsley.
Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes are a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal. With their sweet and tangy taste, these tomatoes are a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make in the air fryer, making them a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

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

This Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for adding a taste of the South to your dinner table. With its crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and savory seasonings, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or grilled sausage, it’s sure to spark conversation and transport your taste buds to the heart of Dixie.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Green Bean Casserole

A ramekin of green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions, served on a wooden table.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Put a twist on a classic favorite with this delicious Green Bean Casserole, a comforting and conversation-worthy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy sauce, crispy onions, and tender green beans, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served at Thanksgiving dinner, Sunday brunch, or a casual potluck, it’s sure to spark conversation and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

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

Change up your side dish game with this Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage, a flavorful and conversation-worthy addition to any meal. With its crispy bacon and tender cabbage, it’s a delicious twist on classic cabbage recipes. Whether served as a side or a snack, it’s sure to spark conversation and impress even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make in the air fryer, making it a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is a creamy and comforting side dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or potluck gatherings. With its cheesy sauce and tender pasta, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served as a side or a main course, it’s sure to spark conversation and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Plus, it’s easy to make in the crockpot, making it a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Crab Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat.
Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Transport yourself to the shores of Asia with this flavorful Crab Fried Rice, a delicious and conversation-worthy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its savory crab meat, fluffy rice, and fragrant seasonings, it’s sure to be a hit with seafood lovers and adventurous eaters alike. Whether served as a side or a main course, it’s sure to spark conversation and add a taste of the exotic to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

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

These Green Beans with Garlic Butter are a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal. With their tender green beans and savory garlic butter sauce, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish, they’re sure to spark conversation and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background.
Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer are a sweet and savory side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With their tender carrots and sticky maple glaze, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served alongside roast chicken, grilled pork chops, or baked ham, they’re sure to spark conversation and add a touch of sweetness to your dinner table. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make in the air fryer, making them a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Sliced and roasted cabbage wedges seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with black pepper and fresh herbs.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Roasted Cabbage Steaks are a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal. With their crispy edges and tender center, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish, they’re sure to spark conversation and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make in the oven, making them a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

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