23 Side Dishes You Didn’t Know You Missed Until Now

Sometimes the best part of a meal isn’t the main dish but the sides that make the plate complete. These side dishes are the ones you probably forgot about but will wonder why you ever stopped making. Each one brings its own mix of flavor, texture, and comfort to the table. From fresh salads to creamy potatoes, these are the sides that deserve another chance.

A bowl of roasted brussels sprouts. — Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Greek Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad in a brown bowl, garnished with pita bread. — Greek Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Greek Quinoa Salad takes about 25 minutes to make and combines quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta with a lemony dressing. It’s light yet filling, offering a balance of freshness and tang. This dish works well for both weekday lunches and dinner sides. The mix of flavors makes it versatile enough for any table.
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad

Brioche Rolls

Brioche Rolls require about 2 hours including rising time and deliver a soft, buttery flavor that elevates any meal. Made with eggs, butter, and flour, these rolls are rich without being heavy. They pair well with soups, roasts, or holiday spreads. Their slightly sweet taste makes them hard to stop eating warm from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Brioche Rolls

Garam Masala Brussels Sprouts

Roasted brussels sprouts in a black bowl and a wooden spoon. — Garam Masala Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garam Masala Brussels Sprouts are ready in about 30 minutes and feature Brussels sprouts roasted with warm Indian spices. The blend of garam masala adds depth and a hint of sweetness. They come out crispy on the outside and tender inside. This recipe turns a simple vegetable into a bold, flavorful side.
Get the Recipe: Garam Masala Brussels Sprouts

Zucchini Noodle Salad

Zucchini Noodle Salad comes together in 20 minutes with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a light vinaigrette. It’s refreshing and low-carb, making it perfect for summer. The crisp texture and tangy dressing balance heavier mains. This salad is proof that simple ingredients can make a memorable side.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad

Loaded Cauliflower Mash

Mashed cauliflower in a white bowl. — Loaded Cauliflower Mash. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Loaded Cauliflower Mash takes about 30 minutes and uses cauliflower blended with cheese, butter, and sour cream. It’s topped with bacon and green onions for extra flavor. Creamy and savory, it’s a lighter twist on mashed potatoes. This side adds comfort without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cauliflower Mash

Screaming Skillet Green Beans

Screaming Skillet Green Beans cook in 15 minutes, bringing high-heat flavor to fresh green beans. Garlic and seasonings give them a bold, savory punch. The quick sear keeps them crisp-tender with a hint of char. This is a fast, flavorful side that works with almost any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Screaming Skillet Green Beans

Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Citrus Asparagus Couscous takes about 25 minutes and blends couscous with asparagus, citrus zest, and fresh herbs. The result is a bright, zesty side with a light texture. It pairs especially well with fish and chicken. This dish adds freshness to the table without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Easy Oven Asparagus

Cooked asparagus in a white bowl. — Easy Oven Asparagus. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Easy Oven Asparagus is ready in 15 minutes with just asparagus, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness while keeping it crisp. It’s a no-fuss recipe that always works. This side is a quick go-to when you need something simple and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Easy Oven Asparagus

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad takes 20 minutes and uses thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with nuts, cheese, and a tangy dressing. It’s crunchy, fresh, and balanced. The flavors lean nutty and sharp, making it stand out from cooked versions. This salad works year-round as a crisp, refreshing side.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes take about 40 minutes and combine Yukon gold potatoes with brown butter, garlic, and sage. The flavor is nutty, rich, and aromatic. The texture stays creamy and smooth. This side dish feels both comforting and elevated, perfect for holidays or weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Shrimp Asparagus Risotto takes about 40 minutes and brings together arborio rice, shrimp, asparagus, and parmesan. The flavor is creamy, savory, and slightly briny from the shrimp. Stirring creates the classic risotto texture. It’s a filling side or light main that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Oven Roasted Root Vegetables

A dish of beets, sweet potatoes, and parsnips roasted in the oven with sprigs of sage. — Oven Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Oven Roasted Root Vegetables roast in about 45 minutes with carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and beets. The flavors become caramelized and earthy. A simple seasoning of herbs and olive oil lets the vegetables shine. This side adds color and depth to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Root Vegetables

Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices

Baked sweet potato slices on a cutting board with a spoon. — Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices cook in 35 minutes, coated with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. The flavor is sweet, caramelized, and warm. They come out tender with a crisp edge. This side works for both holiday meals and simple weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices

Honey Garlic Carrots

Honey Garlic Carrots are ready in 25 minutes and use carrots glazed with honey, garlic, and butter. The flavor balances sweet and savory. Roasting gives them a slight caramelization. This side is quick, colorful, and family-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Carrots

Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli

A white plate with six half-moon shaped cooked dumplings garnished with herbs, perfect as a side dish or for kids. A fork and a blue napkin with floral print are placed beside the plate. — Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli takes about 1 hour and features pasta pockets filled with squash, cheese, and spices. The flavor is sweet, nutty, and creamy. A light sauce brings everything together. This side feels indulgent and makes a meal feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Roasted cabbage steak topped with tomatoes, bacon, goat cheese, and more. — Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Cabbage Steaks cook in about 35 minutes and are made with thick slices of cabbage roasted until tender. Bacon and seasoning add smoky flavor. The edges caramelize for a slightly sweet bite. This side is hearty while still being vegetable-focused.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes with gravy and sprigs of thyme and sage. — Creamy Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes take about 30 minutes and use potatoes, cream, and butter for a smooth texture. The flavor is simple and rich. They pair well with any protein, from roast chicken to steak. This side is a timeless comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

A delightful side dish of green beans topped with crispy fried onions, perfect for pleasing both adults and kids alike. — Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions are ready in 20 minutes and feature crisp beans with garlic and crunchy onion topping. The flavor is savory and slightly sweet. They mimic the classic casserole without the heavy cream. This side is a lighter take with just as much flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Summer Orzo Salad

Summer orzo pasta salad in a while serving bowl on a whitewashed background next to a bowl of green beans. — Summer Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Summer Orzo Salad takes 25 minutes and combines orzo, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta with a tangy dressing. The flavor is fresh and Mediterranean-inspired. It’s a cool, filling side that pairs with grilled mains. This salad keeps well, making it a good choice for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts take 30 minutes and feature sprouts roasted until crisp, then coated with balsamic reduction. The flavor is tangy, sweet, and caramelized. The glaze enhances without overpowering. This side makes a simple vegetable taste restaurant-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Basic Polenta

Basic Polenta takes about 30 minutes and uses cornmeal, butter, and cheese for a creamy, smooth texture. The flavor is mild and slightly nutty. It pairs well with saucy dishes and roasted meats. This recipe is a versatile base for countless meals.
Get the Recipe: Basic Polenta

Worcestershire Green Beans

Worcestershire Green Beans cook in 15 minutes with fresh beans sautéed in Worcestershire sauce and garlic. The flavor is tangy, savory, and a little smoky. The beans stay crisp and bright. This side is quick but adds unexpected depth to dinner.
Get the Recipe: Worcestershire Green Beans

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta take 30 minutes and combine roasted sprouts with crunchy almonds and tangy feta. The flavors balance nutty, salty, and earthy notes. The texture mix makes it satisfying. This side is hearty enough to stand out on its own.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta