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Home » Recipe Collections

28 Sides So Good, They’ll Steal the Show This Holiday

Published: Nov 8, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

The holiday season is all about coming together and enjoying great food. This year, the side dishes are so impressive, they might just steal the show. Each one adds a special touch to the meal, making it unforgettable for everyone gathered around the table. These sides are full of flavors that pop, leaving everyone eager to enjoy each dish.

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it.
Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Lemon Greek Potatoes

Close-up image of lemon greek potatoes in a dish.
Lemon Greek Potatoes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Lemon Greek potatoes are crispy, tender wedges baked with olive oil, oregano, and garlic, infused with fresh lemon flavor. This recipe makes a fantastic holiday side dish, easily prepared in just one hour to enhance any festive meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

Microwave Asparagus

An overhead image of microwave asparagus in a serving plate with slices of lemon on the side.
Microwave Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Who knew quick and easy could also mean mouthwatering? Microwave Asparagus is a revelation. This side dish proves that delicious doesn't have to be complicated. It'll proudly stand next to any holiday roast, demanding its share of the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Asparagus

Kale Salad With Cranberries

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

Forget what you thought you knew about kale. Kale Salad with Cranberries turns it into a festive, colorful dish that'll brighten any table. It's fresh, it's got a bit of sweetness, and it's incredibly moreish. Be ready to share the recipe because guests will ask.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

An image of roasted cabbage steaks on a serving plate.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

If you think cabbage is boring, this dish is here to prove you wrong. Roasted Cabbage Steaks come out of the oven tender on the inside, crispy on the edges, and full of flavor all around. They’re so good, they might just convert some cabbage skeptics. This side will confidently hold its own among the holiday staples.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Mexican Corn Salad

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

Looking for a side that's as lively as the party itself? Mexican Corn Salad is bursting with flavors that will wake up your taste buds. It’s cool, it’s creamy, and it sings with a hint of chili. This side is so good; it competes with the main dish for the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes in a Dutch oven, with wooden spoon.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Now, if you want to talk about a side that embodies comfort, look no further. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes are here to make every forkful feel like a hug. They’re creamy, they’re dreamy, and they’ll make you forget about the rest of the meal. Good luck keeping this dish full until dinner is over.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Panzanella Salad

An overhead image of panzanella salad served on a white plate with dressing on top of it.
Panzanella Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

When old-world charm meets fresh, lively ingredients, you get Panzanella Salad. It's a testament to how simple ingredients can sing together. This salad will add a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your holiday spread. It's so good, people will forget they're eating salad.
Get the Recipe: Panzanella Salad

Korean Pickled Radish

A close-up of a glass jar filled with small, cubed pieces of radish, seasoned with red chili flakes.
Korean Pickled Radish. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Introduce a side that brings a pop of brightness and a crunch that's hard to resist. Korean Pickled Radish is the unsung hero of holiday spreads. It cuts through the richness of other dishes, making itself indispensable. Be prepared; it’s a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Korean Pickled Radish

Raw Carrot Salad

An overhead image of raw carrot salad on a plate.
Raw Carrot Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sometimes, simplicity wins the day, and that’s exactly what Raw Carrot Salad is all about. It’s crisp, it’s refreshing, and it brings a welcome break from the heavier holiday fare. Plus, it adds a pop of color that makes the table more inviting. This dish is proof that simple can be spectacular.
Get the Recipe: Raw Carrot Salad

Green Beans and Potatoes

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it.
Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

You won't believe how good this combo gets until you try it. In the middle of a bustling holiday table, Green Beans and Potatoes will quickly become the star. Everyone will be asking how you made them so irresistible. Trust me, they'll be the first dish to vanish.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes

Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread

An overhead image of a hand holding a cast iron skillet with cornbread.
Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Let's talk about a side that brings comfort to every plate. Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread has that perfect crust that everyone loves. It's the kind of side that'll remind you of dinners at grandma's. Seriously, it may just outshine the main course.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread

No Mayo Coleslaw

Close up of no mayo coleslaw.
No Mayo Coleslaw. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Brighten up your meal with something crunchy and full of flavor. No Mayo Coleslaw proves you don't need the heavy stuff to make a side dish that steals the show. It's fresh, it's crunchy, and it'll have people talking. Showcase it at your next gathering and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: No Mayo Coleslaw

Mediterranean Black Bean Salad

Mediterranean Black Bean Salad in a white bowl being drizzled with cilantro lime dressing.
Mediterranean Black Bean Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

For a side that's as vibrant in color as it is in flavor, you can't go wrong here. Mediterranean Black Bean Salad will transport your taste buds to sunny shores. It’s refreshing, packed with different textures, and it will have folks coming back for seconds. It’s the perfect complement to any meal, making it unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Black Bean Salad

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

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

Trying to keep things lighter without skimping on flavor? Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash is your answer. This dish will surprise everyone with how tasty and versatile it is. It’s a game changer on the holiday table, making veggies the main event.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Vegan Caesar Salad

Vegan caesar salad in a bowl drizzled with caesar salad dressing.
Vegan Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Nobody will miss the dairy once they get a taste of this Vegan Caesar Salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavors that will make you forget it's a healthier option. This salad is a contender to steal the show, making it a must-have on your table. It's a crowd-pleaser, vegan or not.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Caesar 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.

Ditch the usual sides and surprise everyone with Roasted Oyster Mushrooms. Their meaty texture and rich flavor make them an unforgettable addition to any meal. Suddenly, mushrooms are the main attraction. They’re that good.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

Pesto Tortellini Salad

A close up view of cooked tortellini pasta salad in a white bowl.
Pesto Tortellini Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Bring Italian flair to your holiday spread with Pesto Tortellini Salad. It’s packed with flavor from the pesto and makes a hearty side that’s hard to resist. This is the dish that can make pasta the star of the show. Your guests won't stop talking about it.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad

Corn in a Cup

Two glasses of Corn in a Cup garnished with lime.
Corn in a Cup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ever wanted to serve something that feels both gourmet and like comfort food? Corn in a Cup hits that sweet spot. It’s easy to make, fun to eat, and surprisingly addictive. Watch as it quickly becomes the go-to side for every holiday and gathering.
Get the Recipe: Corn in a Cup

Mexican Street Corn Salad

An overhead image of Mexican street corn salad in a bowl with two slices of lime resting on the side.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Level up your meal with a side that's packed with flavor and fun. Mexican Street Corn Salad combines sweet corn with a creamy dressing and a hint of lime. It’s a bit spicy, a lot delicious, and absolutely unforgettable. This side dish will have folks lining up before the main dish is even served.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Microwave Broccoli

An overhead photo of microwave broccoli in a white plate.
Microwave Broccoli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Steamed to perfection and ready in minutes, Microwave Broccoli is a side dish dream come true. It’s vibrant, it’s healthy, and it complements just about everything. Plus, it's a foolproof way to get some greens on the table without any hassle. You'll be amazed at how popular it becomes.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Broccoli

Roasted Pesto Potatoes

Overhead image of roasted pesto potatoes with a spoon on a blue plate.
Roasted Pesto Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Give your potatoes a makeover they deserve with Roasted Pesto Potatoes. Herbaceous, garlicky, and perfectly roasted, they're a side dish game-changer. They’ll have guests eyeing the kitchen for seconds. These potatoes are about to become your new holiday staple.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pesto Potatoes

Easy Air Fryer Carrots

Overhead image of air fryer baby carrots.
Easy Air Fryer Carrots. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Need a side dish that's both healthy and hassle-free? Look no further than Easy Air Fryer Carrots. They come out perfectly crispy and are a hit with both kids and adults. Watch as they become the most requested side at your holiday feasts.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Carrots

Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Citrus asparagus couscous in a white bowl next to an orange and lemons.
Citrus Asparagus Couscous. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Light, zesty, and bursting with freshness, Citrus Asparagus Couscous is a side that everyone will appreciate. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the usual holiday fare. Plus, it adds a gorgeous splash of color to any table. Watch as it becomes the unexpected hit of the night.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Lemon Parmesan Chopped Salad

Close-up image of lemon parmesan chopped salad.
Lemon Parmesan Chopped Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Who knew salads could be so exciting? Lemon Parmesan Chopped Salad is here to show you how. With its fresh flavors and irresistible parmesan topping, it’s a side dish that'll have everyone reaching for more. It just might steal the spotlight from the turkey.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Parmesan Chopped Salad

Rice Pilaf

A bowl of rice Pilaf in a dish with salt and pepper mills in the background.
Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

Transform your ordinary rice into an extraordinary side with Rice Pilaf. It’s fluffy, it’s flavorful, and it goes with just about everything. This dish is a subtle yet surefire way to impress your guests. Don't be surprised if you find yourself making it for every occasion.
Get the Recipe: Rice Pilaf

Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted brussels sprouts with caramelized edges in a serving dish.
Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Change the minds of Brussels sprout skeptics with Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts. The combination of bacon and perfectly roasted sprouts is nothing short of magical. They're so irresistible, they might just upstage the main dish. Get ready for everyone to ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Close-up image of garlicky green beans with fried onions in a plate.
Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Step up your green bean game with Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions. This dish brings together a beloved classic with a punch of garlic and the crunch of fried onions. It’s a side that’s loaded with flavor and texture. Be ready for it to disappear quicker than anything else on the table.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Oven Roasted Potatoes with Spinach and Garlic

This photo shows a cast iron skillet with oven roasted potatoes with spinach and garlic on a blue wooden background.
Oven Roasted Potatoes with Spinach and Garlic. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Forget the usual baked or mashed potatoes. Oven Roasted Potatoes with Spinach and Garlic offer a burst of flavor with every bite. They’re crispy, they’re garlicky, and they’re speckled with vibrant spinach. This side dish is so good, it’ll make you look forward to leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Potatoes with Spinach and Garlic

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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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