Holiday dinners are all about coming together with loved ones and enjoying a meal that’s filled with tradition and flavor. But sometimes, the sides can make or break the meal. Having the right side dishes to complement your main course can take your dinner from good to great, and that’s where these options come in.
These sides are perfect for adding variety to your holiday spread without taking up too much of your time. Whether you’re aiming for classic comfort or something with a little twist, there’s something here for every palate. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, these dishes will have everyone asking for seconds.
The best part? They pair well with almost anything on your holiday table, making them versatile enough for any occasion. From festive flavors to simple staples, these sides offer the right balance of ease and flavor to keep you out of the kitchen and focused on what really matters – enjoying the celebration with family and friends.
Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer
These maple-glazed carrots are a quick, hands-off way to bring a touch of sweetness to your meal. Perfectly tender and subtly caramelized, they pair well with any main dish. A great option for balancing savory flavors on your holiday table. Plus, the air fryer makes cleanup a breeze. Simple, flavorful, and ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer
Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a vibrant medley of roasted vegetables that’s both hearty and nourishing. Its combination of eggplant, zucchini, and peppers makes it a versatile addition to any spread. Ideal for bringing a rich, comforting touch to your gathering. It works well with a variety of main dishes. This classic French dish delivers bold, wholesome flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille
Vegan Mexican Rice
This Mexican-inspired rice brings a burst of flavor to your table, with tomatoes, spices, and tender grains. It’s a great way to complement any festive meal, offering a lively side for heavier mains. The vibrant colors and bold taste make it stand out. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve it warm and enjoy the balance it adds to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Brussels sprouts are a perfect addition to any holiday spread. Their lightly charred edges add depth and a hint of smokiness. With minimal prep and quick cooking, they’re an easy side that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. A great way to introduce more greens to the table. Ideal for rounding out rich, hearty mains.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Air Fryer Potato Wedges
These potato wedges are golden, crispy, and seasoned to perfection. They’re an easy side that pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday mains. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior without needing excess oil. Ready in no time, they’re a family-friendly choice. Serve them hot for a crowd-pleasing addition to your table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage
Bacon-wrapped cabbage combines smoky, savory flavors with tender, juicy cabbage. This dish adds a rich, satisfying element to your meal lineup. The air fryer simplifies the cooking process, making it quick and efficient. Great for complementing hearty mains or more delicate sides. Perfect for anyone looking for bold flavors in a compact dish.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage
Green Bean Tomato Salad
This salad features crisp green beans and juicy tomatoes tossed in a light dressing. It brings a fresh, vibrant contrast to heavier holiday dishes. Easy to assemble and packed with bright flavors, it’s a refreshing addition to your spread. Perfect for making ahead to save time on the big day. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best results.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad
Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes
These roasted Roma tomatoes are packed with rich, concentrated flavor. The air fryer enhances their natural sweetness and adds a hint of char. An excellent choice for bringing a burst of umami to your meal. They pair beautifully with everything from roasts to pasta dishes. Quick to make and highly versatile.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes
Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes
Creamy and comforting, these garlic-infused mashed red potatoes are a staple side. They offer a smooth texture with just the right amount of bite. Perfect for rounding out your holiday meal with a classic, hearty option. Easy to prepare and crowd-friendly, they’re always a hit. Serve them warm for a guaranteed favorite.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese
These cheesy smashed potatoes are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor. The air fryer gives them a perfect golden finish, while the cheese adds a savory touch. They’re a great way to add a comforting element to your holiday meal. Quick to make and highly satisfying. Serve hot for the best texture and taste.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Chees
Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes stuffed with a spiced taco filling offer a hearty, flavorful twist on classic sides. The combination of tender sweet potato and bold taco spices creates a balanced, filling dish. Perfect for adding variety and warmth to your spread. Easy to prepare and sure to please plant-based and meat-eaters alike. A unique option that stands out on the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Aloo Gobi Masala
This Indian-inspired dish features a flavorful mix of spiced potatoes and cauliflower. It brings warmth and complexity to your meal, with aromatic spices and hearty textures. Perfect for adding a bit of international flair to your spread. A comforting, satisfying side that pairs well with a variety of mains. Simple to prepare and packed with robust flavor.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala
Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams
This casserole combines the sweetness of yams with a rich, buttery topping. A classic addition to any holiday meal, it’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Easy to assemble with minimal prep time, it’s a dish that everyone will love. The perfect balance of sweet and savory makes it a must-have side. Serve warm to enhance its comforting flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams
Green Bean Casserole
This classic casserole blends tender green beans with a creamy, savory sauce and crispy topping. A staple on many holiday tables, it’s a great way to add a comforting touch to your meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a reliable favorite. Easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. Serve it hot for the best experience.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
These air fryer sweet potatoes are lightly caramelized on the outside and soft on the inside. Their natural sweetness makes them an ideal side for balancing richer main dishes. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, they’re a hassle-free addition to your holiday spread. Great for those looking for a simple yet flavorful side. Serve them warm and enjoy their satisfying taste and texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Fried cabbage paired with crispy bacon offers a rich, hearty addition to your meal. Its savory flavors and tender texture make it a standout choice. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it complements a variety of main dishes. Perfect for those who love traditional Southern flavors. Serve it hot for the best flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Crab Fried Rice
Crab fried rice is a flavorful mix of tender rice, fresh crab, and aromatic seasonings. It’s a satisfying side that adds a touch of elegance to your meal. Quick to make and versatile, it pairs well with a range of holiday mains. Ideal for those looking to add a seafood twist to their spread. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice
Slow Cooker Rice
This slow-cooked rice is perfectly tender and seasoned just right. It’s an easy, hands-off way to ensure a comforting side for your holiday spread. Ideal for pairing with any main dish, from hearty roasts to lighter options. With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can focus on other preparations. A simple yet effective side that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice
Seafood Pasta Salad
This pasta salad combines tender pasta with a mix of fresh seafood and a light, flavorful dressing. A refreshing side that brings a coastal twist to your holiday meal. Easy to prepare and great for making ahead, it’s perfect for adding variety to your spread. Pairs beautifully with both rich and light mains. Serve chilled for the best flavor.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad
Braised Brussels Sprouts
Braised Brussels sprouts offer a tender, flavorful side that pairs well with any holiday main. The braising process enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth. A simple yet satisfying dish that brings balance to the table. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve warm for the best experience.
Get the Recipe: Braised Brussels Sprouts
Easy Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, hearty side that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Layers of tender potatoes in a rich, cheesy sauce make it a standout option. Simple to prepare and always well-received, it’s a comforting choice that pairs well with any main dish. Great for feeding a crowd. Serve hot for maximum comfort and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes
Roasted Cabbage Steaks
These cabbage steaks are roasted to perfection, with a crispy outer layer and tender center. A flavorful way to add more greens to your holiday meal. Easy to prepare and versatile, they pair well with a variety of mains. A unique option that stands out from traditional vegetable sides. Serve warm for the best texture and taste.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Air Fryer Home Fries
Home fries cooked in the air fryer are crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned. A classic side that’s quick and easy to make, ideal for rounding out your holiday meal. They pair well with both hearty and lighter main dishes. Minimal prep and cooking time make them a convenient option. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Home Fries
Zucchini Bruschetta
This twist on traditional bruschetta uses zucchini as a base for fresh, flavorful toppings. A light, refreshing side that complements heavier holiday dishes. Easy to prepare and full of bright flavors, it’s a great way to add variety to your spread. Perfect for serving as an appetizer or alongside your main meal. Serve fresh for the best taste.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta
Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries
These sweet potato fries are crisp, golden, and perfectly cooked straight from frozen. The air fryer ensures a quick, fuss-free preparation, making them a convenient holiday side. Their natural sweetness balances savory mains beautifully. A family-friendly option that’s sure to be a hit. Serve hot for the best crunch and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries
Green Beans with Garlic Butter
Tender green beans tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce bring a burst of flavor to your meal. A simple yet elegant side that complements a variety of holiday mains. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re a versatile addition to your table. Perfect for those looking to include more greens in their spread. Serve warm for maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter
Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
These twice-baked potatoes are loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onions for a hearty side dish. They’re a perfect addition to any holiday meal, offering rich flavors and a comforting texture. Easy to prepare ahead and bake when needed. A surefire crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any main. Serve hot and enjoy their creamy, flavorful goodness.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. A classic comfort food that’s ideal for holiday gatherings. With minimal effort, it delivers big on flavor and feeds a crowd with ease. Perfect for pairing with a variety of mains. Serve warm for a side everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese