Let’s face it, sides can make or break a meal, and these 17 effortless sides are the secret weapon you never knew you needed. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want to impress your picky friends, these dishes have your back. The best part? They’re so easy, you might even have time for a nap before the meal. Everyone will love these crowd-pleasers, making your main course look like the sidekick.
Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes
If you’re looking for a snack that turns heads at your next gathering, Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes might just be the ticket. With their golden exterior, they’re a crunchy treat that pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether it’s a casual movie night or a fancy dinner, these croquettes fit right in. They’re an uncomplicated way to add a touch of gourmet to your snack lineup without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Extra Crispy Tater Tots Croquettes
Best Salsa
Best Salsa proves that sometimes, simplicity rules the kitchen. This blend of fresh ingredients can be the spotlight or an accompaniment to any dish needing a boost. Whether spooned over nachos or as a side with grilled chicken, it brings a refreshing kick. It’s a must-have in your gourmet arsenal, turning the ordinary into extraordinary with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Best Salsa
Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven
Say goodbye to greasy sides and hello to Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven. This dish offers a healthier alternative to the usual fried snacks while retaining all the crunch. It’s a versatile side that goes well with both meat-heavy dishes and vegetarian options. Not only is it easy to make, but it also brings a bit of green to your plate in a very appetizing way.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven
Pumpkin Fries
For a twist on traditional side dishes, Pumpkin Fries are a game-changer. These fries introduce a slightly sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with flavorful mains. Not only do they bring color to your table, but they’re also a conversation starter. They’re an ingenious way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals in a fun and tasty manner.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Fries
Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish
Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish is a refreshing side that cleanses the palate and complements heavily seasoned dishes perfectly. It balances out flavors, making it an essential part of Korean cuisine. This pickled treat can also be a crunchy snack on its own. It’s simple to prepare and can add a vibrant touch to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Mu Korean Pickled Radish
Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling
If you’re cutting back on carbs but miss the joy of bread, Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling offers a fulfilling alternative. Light and airy, these dumplings go well with a variety of sauces and dishes. They’re a testament to the idea that low carb doesn’t mean low flavor or fun. Plus, they bring a delicious texture to any meal they accompany.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Steamed Bread Dumpling
Rutabaga Fries
Rutabaga Fries bring a unique twist to the conventional fries. With a slightly sweet taste, they’re a wonderful way to introduce new vegetables to your diet. These fries can be a standout dish or a quiet sidekick to burgers and sandwiches. Preparing them is uncomplicated, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries
Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower
This Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower is a side that checks all the boxes for being healthy, tasty, and easy to make. It’s a fantastic substitute for traditional rice, offering a lower-carb option without sacrificing texture or taste. Perfect for those looking to lighten up their meals, it pairs well with an array of main dishes. Its simplicity and versatility make it a staple in any kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower
Lecso Vegetable Stew
Warm and comforting, Lecso Vegetable Stew is like a hug in a bowl. This dish is a flavorful mix of tomatoes, peppers, and spices that can brighten up any meal. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also pairs beautifully with meats or as a topping for bread. Packing a punch of veggies, it’s a nutritious addition to your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Lecso Vegetable Stew
Steamed Artichoke
Steamed Artichoke is an often overlooked side that deserves more attention. It’s not only fun to eat but also offers a subtle, nutty flavor that pairs well with light dipping sauces. This vegetable brings sophistication to the table and is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. It’s a sure-fire way to impress guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke
Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread
Adding a splash of color and nutrition to your table is easy with Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread. This spread is a beautiful blend of roasted beets, garlic, and a touch of seasoning, perfect for crackers or as a sandwich filler. It’s a great way to get more vegetables into your diet in a flavorful way. Plus, its vibrant hue makes it a visual standout.
Get the Recipe: Best Low Carb Oven Roasted Beet Spread
Almond Flour Taco Shells
Almond Flour Taco Shells bring a delicious crunch and a healthier twist to taco night. Made with almond flour, these shells are a great gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture. Whether you’re filling them with traditional taco fillings or getting creative with vegetarian options, they’re bound to be a hit. They prove that you can enjoy your favorite dishes while sticking to dietary preferences.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Taco Shells
Homemade Curd Cheese
If you’re into DIY kitchen projects, making Homemade Curd Cheese is a rewarding endeavor. This cheese can be a creamy base for spreads or a star ingredient in desserts. It’s surprisingly easy to put together, with a result that’s fresher and more fulfilling than store-bought versions. Plus, it gives you the freedom to tweak the flavor to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Curd Cheese
Avocado Egg Salad
Avocado Egg Salad is a creamy, flavorful update on the classic egg salad. By incorporating avocado, it brings a rich texture and a boost of healthy fats. It’s perfect for sandwiches or as a dip, making it a versatile addition to your lunch routine. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something deliciously unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Egg Salad
Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat
This Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat is the foundation of any great taco night. Its tangy goodness perfectly complements the freshness of toppings and the crunch of taco shells. It’s easy to prepare in advance and freeze, ensuring you have a quick meal option on hand. This recipe not only tastes better than store-bought versions, but it also allows you to control the ingredients for a healthier outcome.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ground Beef Taco Meat
Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad
For a fresh and light side dish, Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad is a standout. It replaces traditional grains with low-carb alternatives, making it friendly for a wide range of diets. This salad is a burst of freshness with its mix of herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed simply with olive oil and lemon. It’s a perfect companion to heavier dishes, bringing balance and brightness to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad
Homemade Ranch Dressing
A homemade Homemade Ranch Dressing can transform any salad from boring to exceptional. It’s creamy, tangy, and can be customized according to your preferred herbs and spices. This dressing isn’t just limited to salads; it’s also a fantastic dip for veggies and snacks. Making it at home allows you to avoid the additives found in store-bought versions, offering a healthier and tastier choice.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ranch Dressing