10 Side Dishes That Might Upstage Your Entrée
This content may contain affiliate links. For more information, see our disclosure policy.
I put together this list of side dishes because sometimes the sides are what people remember most. These are easy, reliable options that bring strong flavor and can hold their own next to any main dish. If you want your meals to feel more complete and a little more exciting, these are great ones to keep on repeat.
Keto Collard Green Salad with Chicken
This collard green salad with chicken is a hearty side that works well for lunch or dinner spreads. It comes together quickly and holds up well if made ahead. The mix of protein and fresh greens makes it strong enough to draw attention away from the main dish. It’s a practical option when you want something filling that can easily stand on its own.
Get the Recipe: Keto Collard Green Salad with Chicken
Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven
Parmesan roasted zucchini is a simple oven-baked side that cooks in under 20 minutes. It uses basic ingredients and requires very little prep, making it great for busy days. The crisp edges and cheesy coating give it enough flavor to compete with the main course. It fits well into weeknight meals or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven
Fried Cauliflower Rice with Shrimp
Fried cauliflower rice with shrimp is a quick skillet dish that works well as a side or light meal. It cooks fast and uses common ingredients, making it easy to prepare anytime. The combination of shrimp and seasoned rice gives it a bold presence that can easily outshine heavier dishes. It’s a solid option for weeknights when you want something filling without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cauliflower Rice with Shrimp
Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad
This spinach strawberry walnut salad is a fresh and balanced side that comes together in minutes. It’s great for warm days or when you need something light to pair with a heavier meal. The mix of sweet, crunchy, and fresh elements makes it stand out enough to take attention away from the entrée. It works well for gatherings or simple family meals.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Strawberry Walnut Salad
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Bacon ranch pasta salad is a creamy, make-ahead side that’s perfect for parties and potlucks. It’s easy to prepare in advance and holds up well in the fridge. The combination of bacon and ranch gives it a strong flavor that people tend to go back to first. It’s a reliable choice when you want a side that can easily become the highlight of the table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Roasted Parmesan Baby Potatoes
Roasted parmesan baby potatoes are a classic side that bakes in about 30 minutes with minimal prep. They’re simple to season and work well with many main dishes. The crispy outside and soft inside make them appealing enough to draw more attention than the entrée. They’re a great option for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Parmesan Baby Potatoes
Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese is a rich, comforting side that feels like something from a restaurant. It’s easy to prepare and works well for both weeknights and gatherings. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it the kind of dish people focus on first. It’s a strong addition to any meal where you want a side that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
Sweet Potato Hash
Sweet potato hash is a versatile side that cooks in one pan and is ready in about 25 minutes. It works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it very flexible. The mix of textures and natural sweetness gives it enough character to compete with the main dish. It’s a practical choice when you want something simple but filling.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hash
Air Fryer Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe
These loaded smashed potatoes are made in the air fryer, cutting down cook time while keeping prep simple. They come out crispy on the outside with a soft center, making them easy to enjoy. The added toppings give them enough flavor to become the most talked-about part of the meal. They’re perfect for casual dinners or sharing with guests.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Air Fryer Green Beans
Air fryer green beans are a quick side that cooks in under 15 minutes with very little prep. They’re a great option when you need something fast but still homemade. The slightly crisp texture and seasoning make them more noticeable than a typical vegetable side. They fit well into both busy weeknights and simple family meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Beans