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Home » Recipe Collections

15 Easy Sides That Save Dinner in 30 Minutes or Less

Published: Nov 30, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Easy sides can be a game-changer when you need a quick, flavorful addition to your meal. These vegetable-based sides are packed with fresh flavors and can be made in 30 minutes or less, making them perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to save time without skimping on taste. Whether you're looking for a light salad, a veggie-packed dish, or something crispy and roasted, these quick sides will save dinner and satisfy everyone at the table. No need to spend hours in the kitchen—just simple, great flavors in half an hour or less.

An overhead image of cooked cabbage curry in a round plate.
Easy Cabbage Curry. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Mango Avocado Salad

An overhead image of avocado salad in a serving bowl.
Mango Avocado Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This mango avocado salad combines creamy avocado, juicy mango, and a light lemon vinaigrette. It’s an easy side that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for summer cookouts or light dinners when you need a refreshing dish in no time.
Get the Recipe: Mango Avocado Salad

Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

A close up image of roasted oyster mushrooms placed in a plate over a napkin.
Roasted Oyster Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted oyster mushrooms offer a simple yet refined side dish, highlighting their natural flavor with just a few ingredients. In 30 minutes, this easy side can complement salads, tacos, or serve as a snack.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

Creamed Spinach

An overhead image of creamy spinach in a pot.
Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamed spinach is a comforting and rich side, with a blend of cheeses and bold flavors. This easy side pairs perfectly with roasts and holiday mains, ready in just 30 minutes for a quick, flavorful addition to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Overhead view of green beans placed on a paper towel on a platter.
Din Tai Fung Green Beans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These garlic-infused green beans, inspired by Din Tai Fung, deliver a satisfying crunch and restaurant-quality flavor. A perfect easy side for dinner parties or weeknight meals, they come together in minutes with just four ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

A close up image of air fryer brussels sprouts.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer Brussels sprouts crisp up perfectly in under 20 minutes with minimal oil. This easy side is quick, healthy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect addition to any dinner in less than half an hour.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Mexican Corn Salad

An overhead image of Mexican corn salad with the ingredients fully mixed together.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mexican corn salad combines sweet corn, creamy cheese, and a tangy lime dressing. This easy side comes together quickly and is a bold, vibrant addition to tacos, grilled meats, or any festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Jalapeno Corn

An image of jalapeno corn in a wooden bowl with tortilla chips on the side.
Jalapeno Corn. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Jalapeño corn combines sweet corn with a creamy sauce and a spicy kick. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy side adds bold flavor to your table in a flash, perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Corn

Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

An overhead view of gomen wat in a white bowl.
Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gomen Wat is a spicy Ethiopian greens dish that’s full of flavor and nutrients. This easy side dish comes together in just 30 minutes, offering a unique and flavorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

Easy Cabbage Curry

An overhead image of cooked cabbage curry in a round plate.
Easy Cabbage Curry. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Easy cabbage curry is a one-pot dish that combines bold spices and tender cabbage. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect quick side for busy weeknights or as a flavorful complement to rice or bread.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cabbage Curry

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus on foil-lined baking sheet with lemon slice.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Grilled asparagus, lightly seasoned and charred to perfection, is a healthy and quick side dish. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy side that adds versatility and freshness to cookouts or holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Kale Salad With Cranberries

A horizontal image of kale salad with cranberries.
Kale Salad With Cranberries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kale salad with cranberries, nuts, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette is a colorful and nutritious side dish. This easy side pairs well with any meal, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries

Easy Mango Salsa

An overhead image of mango salsa in a serving plate.
Easy Mango Salsa. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy mango salsa combines juicy mangoes with fresh lime and cilantro for a refreshing, vibrant side. It’s the perfect complement to tacos, grilled dishes, or any meal in need of a burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mango Salsa

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

An overhead image of air fried spaghetti squash.
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer spaghetti squash transforms into tender, golden strands in under 30 minutes. This easy side offers a light, healthy alternative to pasta, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sheet pan roasted carrots, seasoned with garlic and Parmesan, are a savory twist on a classic side. Easy to prepare and ready in just 30 minutes, they make a delicious and quick side for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Overhead image of best broccoli salad with creamy dressin on a bowl.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The best broccoli salad mixes crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, cranberries, and a creamy dressing for a flavor-packed side. This easy side dish is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or casual gatherings, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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