17 Delicious Side Dishes that Will Elevate Every Meal
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just looking to add some pizzazz to your daily meals, these delectable side dishes will surely please your taste buds and impress your guests. From classic comfort foods like Creamy Mac and Cheese to inventive options like Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini, our curated list offers diverse flavors and textures. These side dishes will elevate your meals and inspire your culinary creativity.
Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Air fryer twice-baked potatoes are the perfect side dish for many meals. They’re hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. They are creamy, cheesy, and so delicious that you’ll even want them for a game day snack or light lunch or dinner. Get the recipe: Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Whole30 Cabbage
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying side dish that’s also Whole30 compliant, look no further than this cabbage and bacon recipe. Sautéed with bacon and a blend of herbs and spices, this dish will surely please even the pickiest eaters. Get the recipe: Whole30 Cabbage
Buttery Carrots
Sweet and buttery carrots are the perfect side dish for any occasion. This easy-to-make dish is made with just a few simple ingredients, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table. The carrots are cooked until they’re tender and caramelized and the flavor is enhanced with the buttery and creamy sauce. Get the recipe: Buttery Carrots
Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini
These vegetarian stuffed zucchini boats are loaded with a flavorful mixture of vegetables and cheese, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Not only are stuffed zucchini easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re also a great way to get creative with your cooking. So what are you waiting for? Try this recipe today and see why stuffed zucchini is a favorite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike! Get the recipe: Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini
Mushroom Rice Casserole
This mushroom rice casserole is packed with flavor thanks to the combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy parmesan cheese, and savory herbs. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you can have it on the table in under an hour. It can be served as a side dish or a main dish. Get the recipe: Mushroom Rice Casserole
Squash Souffle
When you think of souffles, you probably imagine sweet treats like chocolate or cheese. But this savory squash souffle recipe shows that the basic concept can be used to create a variety of dishes, including a delicious side dish that works well with almost any meal. Get the recipe: Squash Souffle
Instant Pot Lentils
This instant pot lentils recipe is a hearty, tasty side dish and the perfect comfort food for busy families. You can enjoy a warm bowl of lentils in less than a half hour with minimal effort and time. Cooking lentils in the instant pot is faster than traditional stovetop methods and locks in flavor and texture. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Lentils
Roasted Baby Potatoes
Roasted baby potatoes are the perfect starchy side dish for any meat dish! They’re colorful, delicious, and easy to make. Simply toss baby potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until golden brown and crispy. The result is a delicious and satisfying side dish that everyone will love. Get the recipe: Roasted Baby Potatoes
German Style Creamed Spinach
Creamy, delicious, and oh-so-comforting, this German-style creamed spinach recipe is the perfect side dish for any meal. This classic dish is made with four simple ingredients, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table with its creaminess and flavor. Get the recipe: German Style Creamed Spinach
Spaghetti Squash
Looking for a delicious and healthy squash recipe? Try this spaghetti squash with sauce recipe! This dynamic side dish is low in calories, has a fraction of the carbs of regular spaghetti, it’s delicious, and it’s a vegetable! Get the recipe: Spaghetti Squash with Sauce
Baked Vegetables
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy side dish to serve with your next meal this baked vegetables recipe fits the bill! This recipe is perfect for any main dish and will surely please everyone at the table. It’s a delicious and healthy way to get your daily dose of vegetables. Get the recipe: Baked Vegetables
Mashed Celery Root
This mashed celery root recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to mashed potatoes. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture. It is also a good source of fiber and vitamins C and K. Get the recipe: Mashed Celery Root
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with thinly sliced potatoes, cream of celery soup, and cheese, this dish is easy to follow and produces delicious results. The potatoes are layered in a baking dish with the soup mixture and baked until tender and golden brown. The result is a creamy and cheesy potato dish that will surely please everyone at the table. Get the recipe: Scalloped Potatoes
Asparagus and Shallots
Asparagus and shallots are a classic culinary pairing that makes for a delicious, easy weeknight side dish. This recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and is packed with flavor. Simply sauté asparagus and shallots in a pan with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and you’re done! Get the recipe: Asparagus and Shallots
Instant Pot Black Beans
Make delicious and affordable black beans at home with your Instant Pot! These easy-to-make beans are perfect for all your favorite black bean recipes, from tacos to burritos to salads. Just add broth, spices, and veggies to your Instant Pot and let it do the work. In no time, you’ll have perfectly cooked black beans ready to enjoy. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Black Beans
Broccoli Rabe
Broccoli rabe is a cruciferous vegetable that is related to broccoli and cauliflower. It has a slightly bitter flavor and a crunchy texture. When cooked properly, the bitterness mellows and the rapini becomes tender and flavorful. It’s a popular side dish in Italian cuisine and is often served with pasta, chicken, or fish. Get the recipe: Broccoli Rabe
Creamy Mac and Cheese
Creamy mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the cravings of people of all ages. Its rich, velvety texture and gooey cheese are irresistible, especially on a cold winter day or a cozy night. Get the recipe: Creamy Mac and Cheese
From lighting up stages with her BA in theater to crafting delightful dishes and cocktails, Elaine Benoit's journey is a testament to passion's transformative power. As the CEO of Dishes Delish, she offers a blend of healthy, comforting recipes and exquisitely crafted cocktails. Beyond the kitchen, Elaine voiced her culinary adventures on her podcast, "Dishing," and co-owns Food Blogger Help, extending her expertise to guide budding food bloggers to success. Whether it's for a heartwarming dish or insights into food blogging, Elaine's diverse experiences make her a beacon in the culinary digital landscape.
Love this! Such a perfect mix of side dishes!!
Thanks so much, Joyce.