Simple sides can make or break a meal, and these recipes are here to make sure your mains shine. Whether you're looking for something quick, flavorful, or just plain easy to throw together, these sides have you covered. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a great addition to any dish without breaking a sweat. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with almost anything. If you’re tired of the same old sides, these fresh options will be perfect for switching things up.
Green Beans and Potatoes
Enjoy perfectly tender green beans and potatoes seasoned to perfection, ready in just 25 minutes. This simple side dish is a wholesome addition that easily complements any main course.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes
No Mayo Coleslaw
This refreshing Asian-inspired summer slaw is tossed with a creamy peanut dressing and packed with flavor. As a simple side, it pairs well with a variety of mains, making it a versatile and easy choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: No Mayo Coleslaw
Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
Fluffy skillet cornbread made with instant polenta, jalapenos, cheddar, and cotija cheese is a hearty addition to any meal. This simple side is ready in one hour and goes great with a range of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
Air fryer spaghetti squash is a quick, healthy option that turns out tender and flavorful every time. This simple side dish is ready in 30 minutes and pairs well with many mains.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
Mediterranean Black Bean Salad
A black bean salad with cilantro lime dressing that’s packed with nutrients and ready in just 10 minutes. This simple side is an easy, quick addition to any main meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Black Bean Salad
Microwave Asparagus
Microwave-steamed asparagus is ready in just 5 minutes, making it a quick and nutritious option. This simple side dish is an easy and hassle-free way to add a healthy green to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Asparagus
Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Roasted cabbage steaks are a healthy and easy-to-prepare side dish, perfect for adding to any meal. Ready in just 35 minutes, this simple side is a great addition to weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks
Kale Salad With Cranberries
This kale salad with cranberries, lemon, and nuts brings a great balance of flavors and textures to the table. Ready in 5 minutes, this simple side pairs easily with a wide variety of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries
Mexican Corn Salad
A flavorful Mexican corn salad that works well with any meal, and can be made vegan or vegetarian. This simple side dish adds a burst of flavor and freshness to your plate with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
These cheesy mashed potatoes, made on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, are a comforting and easy side dish. This simple side comes together in 45 minutes and pairs well with almost any main course.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Panzanella Salad
A quick panzanella salad featuring crusty bread, fresh veggies, and herbs, tossed in red wine vinaigrette. Ready in 10 minutes, this simple side dish is perfect for complementing any meal.
Get the Recipe: Panzanella Salad
Korean Pickled Radish
Korean pickled radish made with Daikon or Korean radish brings a bright and tangy flavor to any meal. This simple side is a quick and easy option for tacos, sandwiches, or Korean dishes.
Get the Recipe: Korean Pickled Radish
Raw Carrot Salad
This raw carrot salad is fresh, crunchy, and perfect as a simple side dish. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a light and easy addition to any lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Raw Carrot Salad
Vegan Caesar Salad
Vegan Caesar salad with crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons or chickpeas makes for a great side or lunch option. Ready in 15 minutes, this simple side dish is easy and versatile.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Caesar Salad
Roasted Oyster Mushrooms
Roasted oyster mushrooms, made with just four ingredients, create a flavorful and versatile side dish. Ready in 30 minutes, this simple side can be enjoyed with salads, sandwiches, or main courses.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Oyster Mushrooms
Corn in a Cup
Sweet corn mixed with mayonnaise, cheese, and Tajin creates a quick and tasty corn in a cup. This simple side dish is ready in 15 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Corn in a Cup
Microwave Broccoli
Microwave broccoli is a quick and nutritious side that keeps its vibrant color and flavor. Ready in under 5 minutes, this simple side dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Broccoli
Pesto Tortellini Salad
A summertime favorite, this tortellini pasta salad comes together in just 20 minutes using fewer than 10 ingredients. This simple side is a refreshing addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad with charred corn and bold flavors is a great addition to any table. This simple side dish is flavorful and easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings or quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Citrus Asparagus Couscous
Citrus asparagus couscous is a light and fresh side dish that works well with both weeknight dinners and special occasions. As a simple side, it’s easy to prepare and pairs with a variety of main courses.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous
Lemon Parmesan Chopped Salad
Lemon parmesan chopped salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it a versatile option for any meal. This simple side dish balances bright flavors and pairs effortlessly with a variety of mains.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Parmesan Chopped Salad
Roasted Pesto Potatoes
Roasted pesto potatoes with optional crumbled bacon create a hearty and flavorful side. This simple side dish is ready in minutes and pairs well with meat or fish dinners.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pesto Potatoes
Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions
Garlicky green beans with fried onions are a fresh alternative to traditional green bean casserole. This simple side dish is easy to make and perfect for both weeknight dinners and holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions
Oven Roasted Potatoes with Spinach and Garlic
Roasted potatoes with spinach and garlic add a flavorful and nutritious touch to any meal. This simple side dish pairs well with a variety of mains and brings a boost of veggies to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Potatoes with Spinach and Garlic
Easy Air Fryer Carrots
Air fryer carrots, sweetened with honey and seasoned with Italian spices, make a flavorful side. This simple side dish is quick to prepare and works well with both weeknight meals and special dinners.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Carrots
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf turns a basic side into a flavorful and satisfying dish that pairs well with chicken, fish, or any protein. This simple side dish adds extra flavor to your meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Rice Pilaf
Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon add bold flavor to your meal. This simple side dish is easy to prepare and pairs well with any protein, making it a great choice for any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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