101 Side Dishes That Will Make Weeknight Dinners A Thousand Times Better

smashed baby potatoes with garlic and seasonings
101 Side Dishes For Your Weeknight DinnersPHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Looking for sides that steal the show? We've got you covered, from simple grains and veggies to decadent, bacon-topped creations. No matter what the season or the main dish, there's a perfect side in this list of 101 recipes for you.

When it comes to simple, impressive sides, you don’t have to look much further than your local farmers' market or the produce section of your grocery store to create a bright spot on your plate. Particularly when you’re serving meat as your main, highlighting colorful veggies is a great way to add some color to your dish. Getting in all the health benefits of vegetables is easy when your plate looks like a rainbow! Green veggie dishes, like braised cabbage or grilled green beans, are fantastic, but we’re extra fond of the pop of color orange veggies like butternut squash or carrots can bring to a plate. Looking to shake your dinner routine up? There’s really no better way than to experiment with veggies you and your family might be less familiar with—try bok choy, eggplant, or delicata squash.

On the other hand, there’s really something to be said about how good comfort food feels, so potatoes in all their many shapes and forms will always be welcome on our plate. We’ve got everything from potato gratin to twice baked potatoes, and lots in between. You’ll be set whether you’re having a steak dinner lit by candlelight 0r a quick microwave-friendly meal on your way out the door.

Now that you’ve got ideas for your new favorite side dish, you’re going to want to really wow with your main—check out our top steak, chicken, seafood, and vegetarian weeknight dinners. And don’t forget dessert!

Smashed Potatoes

If you usually only roast your potatoes, you've got to try smashing them—it makes them super crispy while also having an unbelievably buttery, tender center. 😍

Get the Smashed Potatoes recipe.

smashed baby potatoes with garlic and seasonings
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a simple side dish that is also the perfect way to use up any dying spinach. The creaminess will make you forget you're eating spinach and turn anyone into a fan of leafy greens.s

Get the Creamed Spinach recipe.

creamed spinach
EMILY HLAVAC GREEN

Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts

Inspired by the popular Chinese takeout dish Kung Pao chicken, these saucy Brussels sprouts are dangerously delicious. If you want to up the spice level, feel free to add red chiles with the garlic.

Get the Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts recipe.

kung pao brussels topped with sesame seeds, peanuts, and scallions
JOEL GOLDBERG

Homemade Mac & Cheese

In our book, the perfect macaroni & cheese recipe has to nail three things: be extra creamy, plenty cheesy, and paired with a golden, crunchy topping. This tried-and-true recipe aces all of these requirements (and more!) with flying colors, so put that blue box back on the shelf.

Get the Homemade Mac & Cheese recipe.

homemade mac and cheese baked with breadcrumbs
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Fried Rice

We know everyone has a soft spot in their heart for their favorite type of fried rice (we see you, shrimp fried rice-heads), so this recipe is super classic, perfect for personalizing however you like (i.e., customize it with whatever additional protein and veggies you have in the fridge).

Get the Fried Rice recipe.

fried rice with peas, eggs, and green onions
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots

This recipe made us wonder, Why don’t we roast carrots more often? When they roast, their flavor concentrates and sweetens. Pair that with copious amounts of umami-packed Parmesan and just a touch of lemon, and you’ve got a super-irresistible side.

Get the Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots recipe.

garlic parmesan roasted carrots
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Funeral Potatoes

The story goes that these bubbling beauties were named so after becoming a traditional comfort food for post-funeral gatherings. They are basically comfort in a pan, but we prefer (and suggest we all) eat them on happier occasions, especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time comfort food is an absolute necessity.

Get the Funeral Potatoes recipe.

creamy cheesy potatoes with a buttery cornflake topping
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Garlic Bread

Our top tips for homemade garlic bread? Keep it simple, and use plenty of garlic. All you need are a handful of staple ingredients and less than 30 minutes to create this herby, garlicky side everyone will love.

Get the Garlic Bread recipe.

garlic bread
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Melting Potatoes

These melt-in-your-mouth potatoes got their name for good reason: With a tender, soft middle and an herby topping, one bite and you'll get it. Smothered in butter, garlic, and fresh herbs, they really are amazing with everything, from weeknight dinners to romantic special occasions.

Get the Melting Potatoes recipe.

melting potatoes with herbs
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Roasted Green Beans

For a vegetable side to reach the regular weeknight rotation, it has to be delicious and a no-brainer—just like these shallot-y roasted green beans. Simply toss fresh beans in olive oil and season with some salt and pepper before roasting on high heat, then finish under the broiler.

Get the Roasted Green Beans recipe.

fresh green beans tossed with olive oil and shallots, then roasted until tender and lightly blistered
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Corn Casserole

This corn casserole transcends other commonplave casseroles into a league of its own. It’s packed with sweet corn, balanced by a pinch of paprika and herby chives, and has an super tender and custardy texture that will have you on your third helping before you even know what hit you.

Get the Corn Casserole recipe.

classic midwestern casserole made with jiffy muffin mix, creamed corn, and fresh corn then baked and topped with paprika and chives
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Cannellini Beans With Herb Sauce

White beans are a great blank canvas, especially for bright, assertive flavors like lemon and fresh herbs like basil. Perfect as a side, or as a meal topped with a poached egg, these beans prove from-scratch really does make a difference.

Get the Cannellini Beans With Herb Sauce recipe.

cannellini beans with herb sauce
ERIK BERNSTEIN

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries can sometimes have a bad reputation—especially the oven-baked ones. They’re usually a floppy, bland pile of under-seasoned sadness, but it doesn’t have to be that way! We've got all the tips to guarantee crisp and savory sweet potato fries fresh out of the oven.

Get the Sweet Potato Fries recipe.

crispy, baked sweet potato fries seasoned with freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Bacon Fried Cabbage

If you want to venture into the world of cabbage that goes beyond corned beef or coleslaw, try this fried cabbage on for size. Hearty and flavorful, it only requires 5 ingredients (if you don't count the salt and pepper). This simple recipe might just convert even the most ardent of cabbage haters.

Get the Bacon Fried Cabbage recipe.

bacon fried cabbage
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Mashed Potato Casserole

Mashed potato casserole is the ultimate holiday side dish you've been waiting for. It's bound to find its way onto your holiday dinner table at some point during the season, but it makes a great side dish any time of the year. It's creamy, fluffy, and oh so cheesy.

Get the Mashed Potato Casserole recipe.

mashed potato casserole
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: Taylor Ann SPENCER

Garlic Knots

Slathered in buttery, garlicky goodness, these garlic knots are seriously yummy. They’re also easy and quick to make. Just be sure to plan ahead and take your refrigerated pizza dough out ahead of time.

Get the Garlic Knots recipe.

close up of garlic knots topped with parsley and parmesan on a marble background
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS

Beer Braised Cabbage

Don’t overlook the humble cabbage! This straight cabbage braise (without meat!) is the perfect way to experience cabbage in all its vegetal glory.

Get the Beer Braised Cabbage recipe.

braised cabbage with mushrooms and croutons topped with fresh thyme
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MICAH MORTON

Miso Roasted Carrots

These sweet-savory carrots are topped with the most delicious mix of crunchy nuts and spices. We like pistachios and black and white sesame seeds, but feel free to swap in your favorites (like everything bagel seasoning, perhaps?).

Get the Miso Roasted Carrots recipe.

miso roasted carrots topped with pistachios and black and white sesame seeds on a teal plate
ERIK BERNSTEIN

Green Beans Almondine

Sautéed with shallots and garlic, tossed with buttery, toasted almonds, and finished with lemon, these French green beans are quick enough to serve for a weeknight dinner while also being fancy enough for holiday meals and dinner parties.

Get the Green Beans Almondine recipe.

green beans almondine
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Roasted Fennel With Delicata Squash & Apples

You may have seen crisp, anise-y fennel bulbs dotting the famers' market stands, nuzzling up alongside sweet delicata squash and tart apples. The three find their way into this healthy side dish that's perfect for elegant dinner party menus, simple weeknight meals, or paired with richer, holiday spreads.

Get the Roasted Fennel With Delicata Squash & Apples recipe.

roasted fennel with delicata squash, apples, shallots, hazelnuts, pomegranate seeds, and parsley
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Chili Oil Smashed Potatoes

This recipe is a spicy take on our favorite crispy potato method: smashed potatoes. It uses chili oil—make your own or use store-bought. Whichever you choose, try and get the potatoes coated in a good mix of both the oil and the crispy bits to guarantee perfection.

Get the Chili Oil Smashed Potatoes recipe.

chili oil smashed potatoes
Lucy Schaeffer

Perfect Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen: They're amazing boiled, baked, sautéed, and fried (we love you, sweet potato fries), but one of the easiest and most convenient ways to cook sweet potatoes is to roast them.

Get the Perfect Roasted Sweet Potatoes recipe.

how to roast sweet potatoes
PARKER FEIERBACH

Parmesan Roasted Green Beans

This side is like if green beans dressed up as cheesy garlic bread. 😍 Tossed in garlic and black pepper and showered with cheese, this simple, yet irresistible side will steal the spotlight at every holiday table.

Get the Parmesan Roasted Green Beans recipe.

parmesan roasted green beans
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: ERICA JOYCE

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

You know what’s great? Mashed potatoes. You know what’s even better? Roasted garlic mashed potatoes! That extra-savory flavor from melty, roasted garlic adds the perfect kick to classic mashed spuds. (We also add a splash of tangy balsamic vinegar to kick them up a notch.)

Get the Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe.

roasted garlic mashed potatoes
Erik bernstein

Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

No matter what the centerpiece of your meal is, this cheesy butternut squash skillet is sure to steal the show. The balance of sweet, salty, and creamy is EXTREMELY delicious.

Get the Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash recipe.

cheesy bacon butternut squash
PARKER FEIERBACH

Smashed Brussels Sprouts

In order to smash the Brussels sprouts, you need to boil them first. (Just like smashed potatoes!) Make sure to pat them realllll dry, even after you smashed them, so that they crisp up in the oven. And never skimp on the cheese!

Get the Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe.

smashed brussels sprouts
Parker Feierbach

Rice & Peas

This quintessential side goes with any main dish in Jamaican cuisine. Fluffy and moist, it has a savory creaminess that comes from the use of aromatics like garlic and onion, in addition to coconut milk. It's a perfect match for classic Jamaican dishes like curry chicken or oxtail stew.

Get the Rice & Peas recipe.

jamaican rice and peas
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Patatas Bravas

Spicy, creamy, crunchy, smoky… these are all the elements you'll find in the popular Spanish tapas patatas bravas. Think of these like you would French fries, with a little more flair.

Get the Patatas Bravas recipe.

patatas bravas
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLIST: BROOKE CAISON

Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake

This is one side dish that will everyone freak out about (and run for seconds). If you have vegetarian guests, feel free to skip the bacon! We're usually all about the smoky flavor, but for this dish, it's all about the CHEESE.

Get the Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake recipe.

cheesy brussels sprouts vertical
Ethan Calabrese

French Fries

Recipes that require frying are often super-specific; the temperature of the oil must be just so. Not with this method. Turns out you can put *unsoaked* potatoes in a Dutch oven, pour cold oil on top until they’re just covered, then bring the whole thing to a boil. 😋

Get the French Fries recipe.

homemade french fries
Parker feierbach

Sichuan-Style "Fish-Fragrant" Eggplant

Despite the name, there is no trace of fish in this delicious dish. Originating from the Sichuan province in China, 魚香 (yu xiang) describes a flavor profile that was originally used in preparing fish dishes from the region, but is now used to season vegetables, like this eggplant, too.

Get the Sichuan-Style "Fish-Fragrant" Eggplant recipe.

fish fragrant eggplant delishcom
June xie

Lyonnaise Potatoes

Pan-fried potatoes are one of life's simplest pleasures. All you need is some potatoes, some fat, and plenty of salt. This French variety elevates the pan-fried potato even FURTHER with the addition of caramelized onions and lots of butter. What's not to love?

Get the Lyonnaise Potatoes recipe.

lyonnaise potatoes
Park Feierbach

Cucumber, Tomato, & Onion Salad

Perfect for when your garden or the local farmers' market is overflowing with cucumbers and tomatoes, this salad also does surprisingly well with out-of-season produce, due to their year-round availability.

Get the Cucumber, Tomato, & Onion Salad recipe.

cucumber, onion, tomato salad
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Sweet Potato Salad

This sweet potato salad is the perfect way to lighten up any autumnal dinner or even your Thanksgiving spread. Feta, dried cranberries, and red onions pair really nicely with the earthy sweetness of the orange super food. Did we mention it's great warm or cold?

Get the Sweet Potato Salad recipe.

sweet potato salad
Parker feierbach

Roasted Cauliflower

Cauliflower is one of our favorites to roast because, flavor-wise, it's very much a blank canvas. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or add a touch of color and zesty flavor with Old Bay seasoning like we did here. Experiment with your favorite spice blend!

Get the Roasted Cauliflower recipe.

closeup of roasted cauliflower
ANDREW BUI

Baked Risotto with Lemon, Peas & Parmesan

If you’ve never made risotto because you didn’t want to stand there stirring forever, then this recipe is for you. It packs all the satisfying flavor of a slow-stirred version into a fraction of the hands-on time!

Get the Baked Risotto with Lemon, Peas & Parmesan recipe.

baked risotto with lemon, peas parmesan
Andrew bui

Kimchi

Kimchi is a broad name for a type of banchan—or side dish—that is served alongside most meals in Korea. sServe it alongside bibimbap, stir it into fried rice, or fold it into creamy pasta.

Get the Kimchi recipe.

napa cabbage and daikon kimchi
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Callaloo

Like spinach, sautéed Jamaican callaloo is a versatile dish. Most often mixed with rehydrated salted cod fish and eaten for breakfast with boiled green bananas, boiled yams, dumplings, and of course, fried plantains, callaloo can be mixed with rice to make a delicious side dish. Or serve callaloo with jerk chicken and rice and peas.

Get the Callaloo recipe.

jamaican callaloo
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Greek Salad

Filled with fresh veggies, tangy feta, and a simple dressing made of ingredients you might already have in your fridge, this bright Greek salad only takes 15 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any summer celebration.

Get the Greek Salad recipe.

greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING BARRETT WASHBURNE

Fondue Mashed Potatoes

If you’ve ever dreamed up a cheese fondue combined with mashed potatoes, this would be it. Fondue mashed potatoes, or pommes aligot, are super-creamy, silky mashed potatoes that have a starchy, cheesy pull that you’ve gotta see to believe.

Get the Fondue Mashed Potatoes recipe.

fondue mashed potatoes
PHOTO; ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLIST; MAKINZE GORE

Classic Potato Salad

A classic potato salad is a must-have at every picnic and BBQ, and ours is the best—it's creamy and tangy, with a little bit of crunch from the onion and pickles. If you’re looking for a classic, no-fuss potato salad that won’t disappoint, this is it.

Get the Classic Potato Salad recipe.

classic potato salad with pickles, onions, and topped with paprika and chives
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS

Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a comfort food that deserves to be celebrated all year long, but should be absolutely perfect on your Thanksgiving dinner table. To make sure your mashed potatoes are as creamy and delicious as possible, we retested this recipe again and again until we achieved perfection.

Get the Perfect Mashed Potatoes recipe.

perfect mashed potatoes
Parker feierbach

Vinegar Coleslaw

To make this a truly vegan-friendly slaw, there is neither mayonnaise nor honey in the mix. We use maple to bring out the veggies’ natural sweetness and Dijon mustard helps emulsify the oil and vinegar while adding a bit of a kick in the back of your throat.

Get the Vinegar Coleslaw recipe.

vinegar coleslaw with poppy seeds
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: ERIKA JOYCE

Sweet Potato Gratin

Your sweet potatoes are tired of being baked. Give them the chance to become something much more exciting and turn them into sweet potato gratin. Just like the OG potatoes au gratin, these sweet potatoes are layered with plenty of cheese and herby cream sauce and baked until golden brown and bubbly. 😍

Get the Sweet Potato Gratin recipe.

tri color sweet potato gratin with gruyere and thyme
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Similar to our Mexican rice, Spanish rice is the garlicky, well-seasoned side you need on the table. Also called arroz rojo, this dinnertime staple checks all the boxes: It's full of flavor, has the perfect texture, and comes together in just 45 minutes.

Get the Spanish Rice recipe.

spanish rice garnished with cilantro leaves
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Shredded Brussels Sprouts

We love classic sautéed Brussels sprouts, but sometimes we crave something with a bit more kick. These slightly spicy salty-sweet sprouts make for a unique and easy fall side dish.

Get the Shredded Brussels Sprouts recipe.

shredded brussels sprouts
ANDREW BUI

Roasted Parsnips

Looking for a simple side dish to make this fall? Parsnips are your answer. They don't get nearly the attention they deserve, but that ends now. Roasting them makes them slightly sweet and perfectly tender for a quick side dish you might love more than the entrée.

Get the Roasted Parsnips recipe.

roasted parsnips
Parker Feierbach

Easy Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is a Thai style rice that uses a slightly different method than you would normally use to cook rice. Replacing half of the water with coconut milk makes the rice slightly sticky and much more flavorful.

Get the Easy Coconut Rice recipe.

coconut rice
Emily Hlavac Green

Aloo Gobi

Aloo gobi is a classic vegetarian Indian dish translating to potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi). It's a one-pot, super simple, comforting dish that's ready quickly—serve it as a side or over rice as a main.

Get the Aloo Gobi recipe.

aloo gobi
PARKER FEIERBACH

Smoky Pinto Beans

It seems all too often black beans steal the spotlight from the slightly less popular pinto bean. We're here to say: give pintos a chance! They're ultra creamy, a little smoky, and super versatile.

Get the Smoky Pinto Beans recipe.

pinto beans
Lucy Schaeffer

Roasted Delicata Squash

Delicata squash is a winter squash that doesn't get enough attention. Its small size makes it much easier to handle than other squashes and it cooks much faster. When roasted, the squash gets creamy and sweet and we can't get over how cute the flower shaped slices are!

Get the Roasted Delicata Squash recipe.

delicata squash
Parker feierbach

Gamja Jorim: Korean Potatoes

Creamy, tender potato chunks are coated in a slightly sticky, sweet-salty sauce that results from the reduction of honey and soy sauce. Eat it with rice as your low-maintenance weeknight dinner, or serve it alongside your main course.

Get the Gamja Jorim: Korean Potatoes recipe.

gamja jorim korean potatoes
June xie

Potato Rolls

Fresh out of the oven, each of these rolls has a crispy bottom, buttery top, and unbelievably soft center. The secret? Starch from potatoes. Fluffiest. Dinner. Rolls. Ever.

Get the Potato Rolls recipe.

fluffy potato rolls
Andrew bui

Loaded Potato Potato Salad

Imagine a loaded baked potato and potato salad coming together to make the ultimate year-round side, and you’ve pretty much got it. Complete with crispy bacon, scallions, and cheddar cheese, this potato salad will have you thinking you’re in your favorite steakhouse.

Get the Loaded Potato Potato Salad recipe.

loaded baked potato salad
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Air Fryer Moroccan-Spiced Carrots

A combo of spices adds a riot of flavor to those carrots that may or may not have been sitting in the crisper for too long. Serve alongside anything grilled, like our grilled tofu or grilled pork tenderloin.

Get the Air Fryer Moroccan-Spiced Carrots recipe.

air fryer moroccan spiced carrots
PHOTO: JOEL GOLDBERG; FOOD STYLING: HADLEY SUI

Saffron Rice

Saffron rice is quite possibly the most beautiful side dish to grace any dinner table. Colored with the reddish threads from saffron flower stigmas and paired with bright red pomegranate seeds, this rice has a subtle yet fragrant aroma that'll enhance the flavor of the meat you serve alongside it.

Get the Saffron Rice recipe.

saffron rice
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Papaya Salad

When picking your papaya for this salad, just make sure you’re choosing a green, very unripe fruit. And no worries if you’ve got shreds of different thicknesses! That rustic and organic variation will contribute to fun textures in every bite, and we’ll pound them all until tender anyway.

Get the Papaya Salad recipe.

green papaya salad with tomatoes and romaine and crushed peanuts
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Maple Bacon Carrots

Maple syrup brings out the natural sweetness in the carrots and pairs perfectly with the smoky salty bacon. We used full-sized orange carrots here, but these would be so cute with mini rainbow carrots too.

Get the Maple Bacon Carrots recipe.

food, dish, cuisine, ingredient, meat, yakitori, skewer, roasting, produce, finger food,
Vineet Sawant

Chili Oil Smashed Cucumbers

Bonus for this recipe: you get to smash out a little bit of pent-up anger in the process! The resulting uneven, craggy texture of split cucumbers is perfect for grabbing and holding on to that delicious, seasoned oil.

Get the Chili Oil Smashed Cucumbers recipe.

chili oil smashed cucumbers on a plate
JOEL GOLDBERG

Garlic-Sesame Sautéed Spinach (Sautéed Sigeumchi Namul)

This easy sautéed spinach recipe is our take on the classic Korean banchan (aka side dish) sigeumchi namul, which is typically made using blanched spinach. The rich flavor of toasted sesame oil pairs beautifully with the verdant spinach.

Get the Garlic-Sesame Sautéed Spinach (Sautéed Sigeumchi Namul) recipe.

garlic sesame sautéed spinach
JOEL GOLDBERG

Southern-Style Cornbread

Southern-style cornbread starts with bacon fat and is (almost) always baked in a cast-iron skillet. Don't be intimidated by baking in your cast iron— here's how we like to season ours to guarantee it won't stick.

Get the Southern-Style Cornbread recipe.

stack of cornbread topped with a pat of butter
ERIK BERNSTEIN

Perfect Bok Choy

Quick-cooking bok choy is one of our favorite veggie sides. Here we pair it with ginger and sesame oil for a light but flavorful plate of greens. Serve it alongside fish, meat, or your favorite rice dish.

Get the Perfect Bok Choy recipe.

bok choy topped with ginger and sesame seeds in a black bowl
ANDREW BUI

Bang Bang Cauliflower

When we're looking for a spicy, flavorful side to brighten up our dinner, we turn to bang bang cauliflower. Not only is it quick and easy, but the dish is super adaptable (so feel free to change it up a bit if you like).

Get the Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe.

dish, food, cuisine, ingredient, produce, recipe, side dish, obatzda, meat,
Park Feierbach

Mashed Butternut Squash

After roasting, butternut squash becomes extremely smooth and creamy. Instead of the added milk or cream, the squash gets blended with a little butter for a velvety smooth side dish. It's one of our favorite ways to serve the vegetable and it takes very little effort!

Get the Mashed Butternut Squash recipe.

mashed butternut squash
Parker Feierbach

Homemade Biscuits

Can anything beat a warm, flaky biscuit straight out of the oven (or air fryer, if you want to keep your oven free)? We don't think so! Our ideal biscuit should have tender, flaky layers and an extra buttery taste, and this soft and pillowy recipe does just that.

Get the Homemade Biscuits recipe.

homemade flaky biscuits
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Best-Ever Candied Yams

Though candied yams might be super sweet on their own, they're the perfect complement to a plateful of savory holiday mains. Our version gets an added kick from bourbon—we think once you try them you'll never want yams without it!

Get the Best-Ever Candied Yams recipe.

candied yams delishcom
Beatriz de Costa

Grilled Corn On The Cob

This is our simplest, easiest recipe, but the flavor combo options are endless—check out the rest of our grilled corn ideas too.

Get the Grilled Corn On The Cob recipe.

food, cuisine, corn on the cob, sweet corn, barbecue, grilling, dish, barbecue grill, vegetable, corn on the cob,
PARKER FEIERBACH

Cauliflower Tots

These cheesy nuggets of joy might be better than the potato version. We've included an oven-baked version as well as an air-fryer version—both are great, but we're in love with how golden the air fryer version gets!

Get the Cauliflower Tots recipe.

cauliflower tots
Parker Feierbach

Cauliflower Au Gratin

Potatoes au gratin is a creamy decadent dish that no matter how hard we try, we can never give it up. This version made with cauliflower lets us have the decadence without the carbs.

Get the Cauliflower Au Gratin recipe.

cauliflower au gratin
Parker Feierbach

Garlic-Parm Zucchini Sauté

This easy, quick-sautéed zucchini is the perfect side dish for weeknights. It's full of flavor, and the zucchini slightly caramelizes as it cooks in the cast-iron pan. It's our favorite way to use up zucchini (beside chocolate zucchini bread, of course).

Get the Garlic-Parm Zucchini Sauté recipe.

sautéed zucchini
Parker feierbach

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

This cauliflower is the perfect answer when you have buffalo wings on the brain but you need to eat some vegetables.

Get the Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe.

air fried buffalo cauliflower on parchment
PHOTO: JOEL GOLDBERG; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM

Honey Glazed Carrots

Pretty much any kind of carrot will work here, whole or baby carrots, orange or rainbow-colored. We’ve gone with honey, garlic, and rosemary to top them, but you could use any combination of herbs and spices too!

Get the Honey Glazed Carrots recipe.

delish glazed carrots
Ethan Calabrese

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

These are WILDLY delicious! If you can't find cremini mushrooms, look for baby bellas or button mushrooms—they're essentially the same thing and will work just as well here.

Get the Garlic Butter Mushrooms recipe.

garlic butter mushrooms
Parker Feierbach

Lemony Herb Couscous

Couscous often gets forgotten about and honestly, we don't know why. It's much easier to make than most grains or pastas. A simple drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice is our favorite way to serve it, but the possibilities are endless.

Get the Lemony Herb Couscous recipe.

hot to cook couscous
Parker Feierbach

Potatoes Au Gratin

These may be classic for Thanksgiving but they're too delicious not to make year round. Don't be intimidated by the name, either. This fancy-sounding potato recipe actually really easy to master. You've got this!

Get the Potatoes Au Gratin recipe.

potatoes au gratin delishcom
Ethan Calabrese

Pan Fried Potatoes

A lot of skillet potatoes take way longer than they should. The truth is, you don't need to pre-cook the potatoes at all. You just need to slice 'em thin and choose the best oils—we use olive and vegetable oil to achieve the best crispiness.

Get the Pan Fried Potatoes recipe.

pan fried potatoes
PARKER FEIERBACH

Burrata Salad

Think of burrata salad as Caprese salad's fancy cousin. Peak-summer tomatoes are topped with this luscious cheese (think a shell of mozzarella filled with a soft, creamy filling) and garnished with a shower of peppery basil leaves and savory chives. 😍

Get the Burrata Salad recipe.

burrata salad
Andrew bui

Roasted Asparagus

When the stalks darken and crisp, they're not burning, they're developing more flavor. And for thicker stalks, roasting makes a perfectly tender interior that seriously can't be beat.

Get the Roasted Asparagus recipe.

delish roasted asparagus
ETHAN CALABRESE

Zucchini Casserole With Garlicky Breadcrumbs

This summery vegetarian side may be quick and easy, but the colorful shingled veggies make for an impressive presentation. Even the most reluctant vegetable-eaters won't be able to resist that cheesy herbed breadcrumb topping. 😋

Get the Zucchini Casserole With Garlicky Breadcrumbs recipe.

zucchini and squash casserole
Joel Goldberg

Roasted Carrots

Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread in an even layer on a large sheet tray. (Feel free to throw in any of your favorite herbs or spices as well!) Be sure not to overcrowd your pan, or the liquid released from the carrots will prevent them from caramelizing.

Get the Roasted Carrots recipe.

roasted carrots
ETHAN CALABRESE

Baked Zucchini

When it comes to roasted veggies, zucchini is one of our favorites. First of all, it's FAST! (No shade, roasted beets.) Secondly, it's versatile! Feel free to swap in your favorite spices and herbs or keep it simple with salt and pepper.

Get the Baked Zucchini recipe.

baked zucchini
Park Feierbach

Hush Puppies

You won't be able to keep hushed about these. Serve them with your favorite seafood or BBQ dishes.

Get the Hush Puppies recipe.

hush puppies
ETHAN CALABRESE

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts

These little guys are endlessly riffable. Throw in chili flakes, cumin seeds, fresh oregano, or any other flavors you love. Brussels sprouts also go great with cheese, as evidenced by our cheesy Brussels sprout bake, so don't shy away from some shaved Parm for garnish.

Get the Sautéed Brussels Sprouts recipe.

food, brussels sprout, cruciferous vegetables, dish, leaf vegetable, cuisine, ingredient, vegetable, produce, vegetarian food,
Parker Feierbach

Cheesy Garlic Butter Rolls

New to baking bread? These is a great place to start. Word to the wise: make sure you put your rolls somewhere warm to let them rise.

Get the Cheesy Garlic Butter Rolls recipe.

dish, food, cuisine, ingredient, bread, baked goods, bun, bread roll, finger food, produce,
Brad Holland

Buttermilk Onion Rings

Cornstarch and seltzer help to keep the batter for these light, while the fine cornmeal and paprika give each bite a little more crunch and flavor. Dip them in some mayo (Kewpie is highly recommended) and ketchup, and get ready for the freshest onion rings you've ever tasted.

Get the Buttermilk Onion Rings recipe.

buttermilk onion rings
Parker feierbach

Grilled Balsamic Mushrooms

Mushrooms can get sidelined at a barbecue as the side dish just for vegetarians, but when tossed in a balsamic-soy glaze, they'll get ALL the attention. Follow our tips to make them the best they can be.

Get the Grilled Balsamic Mushrooms recipe.

grilled balsamic mushrooms
PARKER FEIERBACH

Loaded Cauliflower Bake

This combines the creamy, cheesiness of a classic macaroni & cheese and the amazing fix-ins (hint: BACON) from a twice baked potato into one incredible low-carb side.

Get the Loaded Cauliflower Bake recipe.

loaded cauliflower bake
Parker Feierbach

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Toss sprouts in a little olive oil, spread them on a baking sheet, and throw them in the oven for 30 minutes. The oven’s high dry heat will bring out all those delicious nutty flavors, rendering the sprouts soft and tender in the middle, but super crispy and delicious on the outside.

Get the Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe.

roasted brussels sprouts
Ethan Calabrese

Summer Panzanella

Panzanella is a salad that truly tastes like summer. It's one that you want to make in peak season—when the tomatoes are extra juicy, the squash slightly sweet, and the basil extra cheap.

Get the Summer Panzanella recipe.

grilled panzanella salad
Andrew bui

Holiday Roasted Vegetables

The dried cranberries and balsamic vinegar add some sweetness and tartness while the pecans add an extra crunch to these holiday-worthy vegetables. We use Brussels sprouts and carrots, but feel free to add extra vegetables or swap in some of your favorites.

Get the Holiday Roasted Vegetables recipe.

holiday roasted vegetables
Parker Feierbach

Mashed Cauliflower

This cauliflower mash recipe is the perfect low-carb substitute to mashed potatoes. The secret to making steamed cauliflower smooth and creamy? CREAM CHEESE! (We're big fans, if you hadn't noticed 😉.)

Get the Mashed Cauliflower recipe.

mashed cauliflower
Park Feierbach

Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselbackspotatis, aka Hasselback potatoes, are a Swedish invention that transforms a humble baked potato into an ingenious work of art. Each potato is partially sliced into a row of thin slivers that then get brushed with oil or butter and baked to roasty-toasty crispy-crunchy perfection. These are spud heaven!

Get the Hasselback Potatoes recipe.

hasselback potatoes delishcom
June Xie

Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts

Get ready for some bangin' Brussels. Go light on the Sriracha if you're sensitive to spice—the sweet chili sauce will add enough of a kick all on its own.

Get the Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts recipe.

bang bang brussels sprouts vertical
Ethan Calabrese

Perfect Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is one of the best ways to show off those juicy in-season farmer's market tomatoes or your own backyard harvest. Hailing from the island of Capri and mirroring the colors of the Italian flag, this simple salad is the perfect way to start any late-summer meal.

Get the Perfect Caprese Salad recipe.

caprese salad
Parker Feierbach

Italian Pasta Salad

Save yourself some time and make this simple Italian dressing ahead of time! Mix it together and store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve your pasta—the flavors will meld and taste better that way too.

Get the Italian Pasta Salad recipe.

italian inspired pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, black olives, artichokes, and salami
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Stir-Fried Snow Peas

With a fresh, vegetal profile and a bit of crunch, snow peas are undoubtedly a star in many a salad, but might be even better stir-fried. You could simply fry them with a bit of garlic and oil, but adding more veg like mushrooms and a simple soy-ginger sauce elevate them into a proper side.

Get the Stir-Fried Snow Peas recipe.

snow peas
Erik bernstein

Black Bean & Corn Salad

This easy salad comes together quickly and works as a side dish, a great topping for tacos, or as an appetizer with chips. Think of this as a medley of the most exciting parts of a vegetarian burrito bowl, unadulterated by rice, and hyped up by a little honey-lime action.

Get the Black Bean & Corn Salad recipe.

black bean and corn salad
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Classic Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is one of our favorite things to pair with pulled pork or ribs, which is why it's such a disappointment when it's too dry or soggy. Not to fear—this recipe guarantees perfection ever time.

Get the Classic Macaroni Salad recipe.

creamy macaroni salad with carrots, celery, and olives
Hearst Owned

Greek Lemon Potatoes

It comes as no surprise that Greece has perfected the art of the roasted potato. Here, a combination of steaming and roasting leads to a creamy, tender interior and a crispy exterior. The chicken broth and lemon juice turn to fragrant steam in the oven, infusing each bite with rich flavor.

Get the Greek Lemon Potatoes recipe.

greek lemon potatoes
Hearst Owned

Cilantro Lime Rice

Like Chipotle without having to wait in line. Make this instead of plain white rice to take your Mexican meals next level.

Get the Cilantro Lime Rice recipe.

cilantro lime rice
JONATHAN BOULTON

Grilled Ranch Potatoes

Grilling baby potatoes are the perfect way to incorporate potatoes to your next BBQ without having to step foot inside the kitchen. We take these spuds to the next level with two levels of ranch dressing goodness: the seasoning adds some salty, umami flavor while the dressing provides that cooling, tangy creaminess.

Get the Grilled Ranch Potatoes recipe.

grilled ranch potato skewers vertical
Jonathan Boulton

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