38 Easy and Best Side Dishes Recipes and Ideas

Are you looking for delectable and versatile side dishes to elevate your meals? Look no further! In this post, we have compiled a collection of mouthwatering recipes and ideas that are sure to impress your family and guests. From vibrant sautéed vegetables to crispy roasted delights, there's something here for everyone's palate.

Vegetables take center stage in many of these recipes, showcasing their natural flavors and textures. Whether you're a fan of classic favorites like Honey Glazed Carrots or are craving something more adventurous like Sauteed Kale, you'll find plenty of options to tantalize your taste buds. These dishes are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Collage of different side dishes served in a bowl, plate and a baking tray.

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For those who enjoy the earthy and umami-rich flavors of mushrooms, we have Garlic Mushrooms and Sauteed Mushroom recipes that are sure to satisfy. The aromatic blend of garlic and mushrooms creates a tantalizing combination that can be enjoyed as a side or incorporated into other dishes. Additionally, the Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts and Sautéed Brussels Sprouts recipes present two delightful ways to enjoy this cruciferous vegetable. Whether you prefer the crispiness of air frying or the tenderness of sautéing, these Brussels sprouts are bound to become a favorite.

Seafood lovers will rejoice at the inclusion of Sauteed Shrimp, a quick and flavorful option that pairs well with various main courses. The tender shrimp are sautéed to perfection, offering a delightful burst of flavor that complements any meal. Meanwhile, Sauteed Asparagus, Sauteed Green Beans, and Sauteed Cabbage recipes offer a vibrant array of colorful and nutritious options. These dishes highlight the natural sweetness and crunch of the vegetables, providing a refreshing and health-conscious addition to your table.

To accompany these delicious sides, we've included tips on how to cook different varieties of rice, such as Basmati Rice, Jasmine Rice, and Brown Rice. These versatile grains serve as the perfect base for many meals and offer a wonderful complement to the flavors of the main dish and side dishes alike.

Lastly, the assortment of roasted vegetables, including Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Oven Roasted Potatoes, and Roasted Zucchini, adds a satisfyingly crispy and flavorful touch to your plate. With their golden-brown exteriors and tender interiors, these roasted delights are sure to be a hit at your table.

So, whether you're planning a family dinner, a festive gathering, a recipe idea or simply want to spruce up your everyday meals, these easy and best side dishes recipes and ideas are here to inspire you. Get ready to explore a world of flavors and elevate your dining experience with these fantastic recipes. Your taste buds will thank you!

You can also find different collections of recipes below and more at recipe collections.

Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw is a crispy, crunchy, and classic salad. It features fresh green and purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and coriander leaves, all tossed together in a creamy coleslaw dressing. This Homemade Coleslaw recipe is a highlight of summer dishes, perfectly complementing fried chicken dishes, grilled meats, sandwiches, wraps, and tacos for lunch or dinner.

A bowl of coleslaw salad with fresh vegetables, including cabbage, carrots and greens.

Chickpea Salad

Chickpea Salad, also known as Garbanzo Bean Salad, is a healthy and nutritious Mediterranean dish that bursts with flavors. It is typically made with cooked chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and a tangy dressing infused with garlic and spices. The chickpeas in the salad provide a hearty and satisfying texture, while the vegetables add freshness and flavor. It can be served as a light lunch or dinner, enjoyed as a side dish, or even used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Cucumber Salad

Cucumber Salad is an easy-to-make, refreshing, and healthy dish. It typically consists of fresh cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, salt, herbs, and basic seasonings, and can also be prepared with sour cream for a creamy version. This Cucumber Salad is one of the best and easiest salads to make, pairing well with grilled meats, fried chicken dishes, seafood, and more, making it perfect for both lunch and dinner.

Chicken Salad

Chicken Salad is a classic dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. It typically consists of cooked boneless chicken, crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing. This versatile salad is a fantastic option for summer, requiring just under 30 minutes to whip up. It can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a delightful sandwich filling or as a light lunch or dinner paired with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber.

Greek Salad

Greek Salad is a refreshing, healthy, and nutritious Mediterranean dish. It features a combination of fresh vegetables, Kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs, and is dressed with either Greek Salad Dressing or a simple vinaigrette. This vibrant salad is bursting with flavors and is an ideal accompaniment to roasted or baked meats, chicken dishes, seafood, or other Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad is a timeless classic, popular for its distinct and refreshing flavors. This salad is created from a medley of fresh romaine lettuce, croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, and a luscious Caesar salad dressing, this homemade version stands as an exceptional summer dish. It pairs with a variety of dishes such as chicken, salmon, shrimp, and soups.

Green Bean Casserole

Indulge in the creamy, homey goodness of Green Bean Casserole, an American classic crafted with ease from green beans, creamy mushrooms, crispy onions, and melty cheese. Perfect alongside your holiday roast or as a comforting partner to mac 'n' cheese, this one-pot wonder is a festive favorite.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey Glazed Carrots, a sweet and savory side dish, are easy to make with carrots, honey, and basic seasonings. Ready in 30 minutes, they perfectly complement main dishes like rice, chicken, or seafood, making them ideal for both lunch and dinner.

Garlic Mushrooms

Garlic Mushrooms are a delectable, and savory side dish loaded with rich flavors. This dish typically comprises fresh mushrooms, garlic, butter, and basic seasonings. Garlic mushrooms offer a healthy addition to both lunch and dinner meals. They pair exceptionally well with rice dishes, pasta dishes, and a wide variety of seafood, such as salmon dishes and shrimp dishes, as well as meats like chicken and steak. And the best part is it can be easily made in under 30 minutes.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts is a healthy and nutritious side dish. It is typically made using fresh Brussels sprouts, basic seasonings, lemon juice, and oil. Air Fried Brussels Sprouts are one of the best and most healthy dishes that can be served for both lunch and dinner. It pairs well with roasted and baked meats, rice dishes, and seafood. It makes a satisfying addition to any meal in under 30 minutes.

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts are a crispy, crunchy, and healthy side dish. It is usually made with fresh Brussels sprouts, garlic, lemon juice, and basic seasonings. Sauteing is one of the best and easy ways to cook Brussels Sprouts and it pairs well as a side dish with chicken, salmon, and shrimp for both lunch and dinner. It also pairs well with starchy foods like rice, pasta, and quinoa. This dish is sure to add a delicious touch to any meal and that too in under 30 minutes.

Sauteed Brussel Sprouts in a black bowl with few ingredients scattered around.

Sauteed Shrimp

Sauteed Shrimp is a juicy, succulent, and easy-to-make seafood dish that bursts with delightful flavors. It features plump shrimp made with basic seasonings, tangy lemon juice, healthy fats, and aromatic herbs. This delectable Sauteed Shrimp pairs exceptionally well with roasted or baked vegetables, sauteed dishes, rice dishes, or pasta. Whether for lunch or dinner, it is a perfect choice that can be prepared in under 30 minutes

Sautéed Green Beans

Sautéed Green Beans are a simple, healthy, and easy-to-make side dish, typically prepared using fresh green beans, basic pantry seasonings, and lemon juice. This dish is one of the best-sautéed dishes that perfectly complement roasted or baked meats, rice dishes, or pasta dishes. The best part is that the Sautéed Green Beans can be prepared quickly in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for both lunch and dinner.

Sauteed Green Beans in a white plate with few ingredients scattered around.

Sauteed Mushroom

Sauteed Mushrooms are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make side dish that can be prepared with fresh edible mushrooms, garlic, herbs, and basic seasonings. This Sauteed Mushroom with garlic is a great accompaniment to soups, steaks, pasta, and other grilled, roasted, or baked meats.

Sauteed Asparagus

Sautéed Asparagus is a healthy and nutritious side dish that is quick and effortless to prepare. Typically, it involves the use of fresh asparagus, garlic, lemon juice, basic seasonings, and healthy fats, which contribute to its excellent health benefits. Sauteing Asparagus is one of the best ways to cook asparagus, and it goes well with protein, rice dishes, and pasta dishes. It makes a versatile meal option for both lunch and dinner.

Sauteed Kale

Sautéed Kale is an easy, vibrant, and healthy dish loaded with full of flavor. It is usually made with kale, basic seasonings, aromatics, and healthy fats. Sauteing is one of the best ways to cook kale as it helps to preserve its natural nutrients. It is also one of the versatile side dishes that pair well with various proteins such as chicken, lamb, salmon, and other seafood.

Sauteed Cabbage

Sauteed cabbage is a delicious and healthy side dish that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is typically prepared using fresh cabbage, aromatics such as onion and garlic, and a combination of simple seasonings like salt and pepper. This Sauteed Cabbage is one the best and most healthy ways to cook Cabbage and it pairs well with a variety of main dishes including chicken, pork, lamb, and seafood like salmon. And the best part is, you can also enjoy Sauteed Cabbage in sandwiches, burgers, and wraps!

Sautéed Cabbage in a black bowl with few ingredients scattered around.

Sauteed Zucchini

Sauteed Zucchini is a simple, savory, and effortlessly prepared side dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh zucchini. With basic seasonings and aromatics, sautéing allows the zucchini to retain its delicate taste and texture. This healthy dish requires under 30 minutes to create, making it a convenient option for any meal. Sauteed Zucchini pairs exceptionally well with a variety of main courses, including chicken, seafood, pasta, and rice dishes.

Sauteed Spinach

Sautéed Spinach is a simple, and healthy and fiber rich side dish filled with full of flavors. It is usually made with fresh spinach, garlic, chili flakes, and olive oil. This Sauteed Spinach is one of the best side dishes to enjoy and it is the perfect to serve for lunch or dinner.

How to cook Rice

Learn how to cook White Rice on a stovetop that delivers the best, perfectly fluffy, and tender rice every time. This recipe for white rice is usually made with short, medium, or long-grain rice and water using the absorption method. The process for cooking rice involves boiling, and simmering the rice until it is cooked completely. The cooking method shared here is one of the easy and best ways to make Rice on the stovetop using a pot. Here the Rice is made plain without any seasonings, so it pairs great with curries, stir-fried dishes, and roasted and baked dishes. You could also serve it with chicken, salmon, shrimp, and many Asian and Indian recipes for lunch and dinner.

Perfectly cooked fluffy rice in a black bowl on a grey table, with few ingredients around.

Basmati Rice

Basmati Rice is aromatic, and long-grained rice that is popular in Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is widely used to make biryani, pulao, and other flavored rice. The recipe I have shared here shows you how to perfectly cook Basmati Rice with easy step-by-step instructions for you to try and enjoy at home. The method shared here to cook Basmati Rice delivers fluffier, light, and long-grained rice. It pairs perfectly with Indian curries and side dishes for lunch and dinner. And the best part is it comes in under 30 minutes.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine Rice is a floral fragrant, and long-grain rice popular in Asian cooking, especially in Thai cuisine. It is usually cooked with rice and water using the absorption method on the stovetop. This fragrant Jasmine Rice is widely used as a side dish with curries, stir-fries, and most Thai dishes and to make fried rice. The cooking method shared here is one of the easy and best ways to cook Jasmine Rice on the stovetop using a pot. And it delivers perfectly soft, fluffier, and light rice every time.

How to Cook Brown Rice

Brown Rice is healthy whole-grain rice loaded with many nutritional benefits. It is usually cooked using the absorption method, cook and drain method, instant pot, or baking method. The recipe I have shared here shows you how to cook or make Brown Rice using the absorption method with easy step-by-step instructions for you to try and enjoy at home. The cooking method shared here delivers soft, and fluffier Brown Rice that pairs great with curries, stir-fries, baked or roasted dishes, chicken, salmon, or shrimp.

Brown Rice in a black bowl with lemon slices.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts, seasoned with garlic and onion powders and lemon juice, offer a crispy yet tender side dish. Ideal with roasted meats, pasta, or rice, roasting enhances their flavor, making them a versatile addition to meals.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted Vegetables offer a crispy, straightforward, and healthy side dish prepared with fresh vegetables, basic seasonings, and herbs. They're an ideal addition to lunch or dinner, allowing you to savor the goodness of veggies with ease.

Oven Roasted Asparagus

Enjoy a healthy and delicious Oven Roasted Asparagus, ready in under 30 minutes. This simple one-pan dish combines fresh asparagus with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. It's an easy, vegan-friendly option perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.

Baked Potato

Baked Potato, with its crispy skin and fluffy inside, is a flavorful side dish. Made primarily with Russet Potatoes, seasoned with oil and salt, and topped with sour cream, chives, and black pepper, it's ideal for parties or as a lunch and dinner accompaniment.

Oven Roasted Potatoes

Oven-Roasted Potatoes, easy to prepare with a crispy outside and fluffy inside, are made using red or white potatoes, garlic, and basic seasonings. They pair wonderfully with baked chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Roasted Green Beans

Roasted Green Beans are a crispy, crunchy, and healthy Italian dish, perfect as a side or entrée. Prepared with fresh young green beans and seasoned with garlic powder, a variety of spices, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, these Oven-Roasted Green Beans are an ideal addition to both lunch and dinner menus.

Crispy Baked Tofu

Discover the delight of Baked Tofu, a crispy, flavor-packed Chinese dish that's simple to prepare. Made with extra firm tofu marinated in basic seasonings and baked to golden perfection, it's an ideal, versatile side for any meal, perfect for spicing up your lunch, dinner, stir-fries, or salads.

Roasted Zucchini

Roasted zucchini, a quick and nutritious side, is prepared in under 30 minutes using fresh zucchini, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and olive oil. Perfectly complementing meals like rice, meats, or seafood such as salmon, it's a versatile choice for lunch or dinner.

Roasted Broccoli

Enjoy the easy-to-make Roasted Broccoli, combining fresh broccoli with olive oil, garlic, pepper, chili flakes, and lemon juice. This oven-roasted dish is a perfect side for rice, seafood, chicken, or other main courses.

Oven Roasted Cauliflower

Oven Roasted Cauliflower offers a crisp, crunchy bite with a hint of spice. Made with fresh cauliflower, olive oil, and basic spices, this dish is quick to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a tasty and effortless lunch or dinner.

Oven Roasted Carrots

Oven Roasted Carrots, a nutritious and flavorful Italian dish, combines fresh carrots with garlic, herbs, and olive oil. This simple yet delightful recipe is versatile enough to serve as either a side dish or an entrée for lunch and dinner.

Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is a hot, smoky and authentic Indian appetizer dish. It is usually made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and veggies that are marinated in a flavorful yogurt marinade and traditionally grilled in a tandoor. This Paneer Tikka can be easily made in oven, air fryer or stove top and can be served as an appetizer, side dish or an entrée for lunch and dinner.

Chilli Paneer

Chilli Paneer is a sweet, sour, and spicy Indo-Chinese dish from the Chinese Hakka Heritage. It is the vegetarian version of the popular Chilli Chicken and is usually made with paneer, bell peppers, Chinese sauces, and aromatics. This restaurant-style Chilli Paneer is one of the best appetizer dishes that also tastes great with fried rice, noodles, and other sides of your choice for lunch and dinner. And the best part is it comes under in 30 minutes.

Chilli Chicken

Chilli Chicken is a crispy, spicy, and mildly sweet Indo-Chinese dish that has been adapted from Chinese Hakka Heritage. It is usually made with boneless chicken breast or thighs, basic Chinese sauces, and a few other aromatics. This Chinese Chilli Chicken is one of the best stir-fry dishes and is usually served as a starter or appetizer for lunch and dinner. And the best part is it tastes great as a side dish for fried rice, noodles, or soups.

Aloo Gobi (Alu Gobi)

Aloo Gobi (Alu gobi) is a tasty and flavorful one-pot vegetarian side dish popular in most restaurants and households of India. It is prepared with minimal ingredients like cauliflower, potato, and Indian spices. This alu gobi is a perfect vegan-friendly side dish that be can be served with naan, chapati, roti, jeera rice, or ghee rice.

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