Whether it’s a family gathering or celebratory feast, side dishes can make all the difference. Finding the perfect dishes to accompany your main course can seem daunting, so why not try something new and exciting? Here are some delicious, unique side dish recipes from around the world that are sure to impress any crowd.
1. An Array of Appetizing Side Dishes for Every Occasion
No matter the occasion, everyone loves side dishes to provide that extra flavor and variety for their meal. Whether you need a small bite for a potluck or a simple dish for a weeknight dinner, here are some delicious and easy side dish options to fill the menu.
- Vegetables – Roasted vegetables such as asparagus and Brussels sprouts offer a naturally sweet taste and crunchy texture. Be sure to season them with some garlic and olive oil for even more flavor.
- Rice – If you want a classic staple, rice is the perfect side dish. Try herb-infused white rice or an exotic black rice to add an outstanding flavor.
- Salads – Whether it is a feta cucumber salad or roasted carrot salad, greens and vegetables are always a great idea. Plus, they are healthy and full of flavour.
- Potatoes – Who doesn’t like potatoes? Roasted, boiled, mashed or scalloped, potatoes can be cooked in so many different ways, making them a great accompaniment to any meal.
For a lighter option, add some seasonal fruits to your dish. Or, if you’re feeling a bit more experimental, try a quinoa pilaf or mushrooms with garlic butter sauce. Whatever you decide to make, be sure to have plenty of sides to add variety and that special touch.
2. Spice Up Your Next Meal with These Delicious Side Dishes
Side dishes are an excellent way to add a flavorful and creative punch to any meal. With just a few ingredients and a bit of imagination, you can make even the simplest of meals delightful. Here are some delicious side dish ideas that will change up your next meal:
- Crunchy Herb Salad: A mix of fresh greens with herbs, such as basil, cilantro, and parsley, topped with lighter crunchy ingredients like sliced radish, carrot, cucumber, and pumpkin seeds.
- Roasted Veggies: Bite-sized vegetables, such as cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, tossed in oil and herbs, and roasted in a preheated oven. Try adding a teaspoon of honey for a sweetness to the savory side dish.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Boil and mash cubed sweet potatoes with butter, sugar, milk, and a touch of cinnamon for a sweet and savory dish. Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor.
- Rice Pilaf: Simmered rice, orzo, and diced onion and bell peppers mixed with herbs and spices makes for a flavor-packed pilaf. You can also add a few slivered almonds or chopped macadamia nuts for extra texture.
Choose one or more of these tasty side dishes and give your next meal an extra-special flair.
3. Savory Ingredients for Any Time of Day
We all know that meals can make or break a day, and sometimes finding the perfect balance of savory flavors is a challenge. But have no fear, these ingredients can be used in any meal, both breakfast and dinner, providing deliciousness every time.
- Cheese – Whether it’s hard, soft, or melted, cheese can help turn an ordinary meal into something special.
- Herbs and spices – Sage, oregano and basil can lend some serious flavor to veggies like mushrooms or squash.
- Onions – A classic allium, onions always add a bit of bite to any dish.
- Salt and pepper – There’s nothing quite like the zing of freshly cracked black pepper on just about any food.
These four ingredients are multi-functional rock stars for all sorts of meals. Add them to scrambled eggs for breakfast, or mix them up with some roasted vegetables. Don’t be afraid to get creative and use multiple ingredients together! As long as you have plenty of flavor, it’s sure to be a hit.
4. Adorn Your Dinnertime with Tempting Sides
Liven up your dinnertime with exciting sides that will tantalize everyone’s taste buds! Here’s a list of tried and tested side-dishes that easy to prepare and guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters:
- Arugula & Toasted Walnuts Salad
- Roasted Potato Wedges with Herbs
- Rosemary Carrots with Parmesan Cheese
- Grilled Asparagus with Lemon & Garlic
- Cucumber Tomato Salad with Avocado
Carbs are your Friend
Craving something a bit more hearty? The key to making delicious carb-heavy sides is to get creative with your recipes. Whip up a batch of home-made vegan gnocchi or add a bit of spark to your side-dish with mashed potato loaded with your choice of cheese, green onions, and bacon. Favored by adults and kids alike, these sides are guaranteed satisfaction!
5. Versatile Side Dishes for Hosting Any Event
Gather ‘Round! Here is a List of Delicious Side Dishes to Complete Your Next Dinner Party
When hosting a gathering, it’s essential to prepare the perfect meal. The main course can be the star of the show, but don’t forget about the sides! They will enhance your guests’ dining experience, and who knows – maybe a side dish will become the highlight of the event.
Whether you’re looking for something quick and delicious or a unique side to complete your feast, here are 5 versatile dishes you can choose from:
- Spicy Rice Pilaf – a flavorful pilaf seasoned with spicy cumin, chili powder, and paprika
- Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Salad – blanched green beans tossed in a zesty balsamic vinaigrette, salt and pepper, and topped with cherry tomatoes
- Cheesy Broccoli Bake – crunchy broccoli florets combined with garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of cream cheese
- Mashed Potatoes with Caramelized Onions – golden potatoes mixed with sweet onions, butter and milk
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze – roasted brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy maple glaze and fried bacon bits
Try one of these side dishes when hosting your next gathering and tantalize your guests’ taste buds! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make a combination of these dishes for a flavorful experience. No matter the occasion, you can’t go wrong with one of these flavorful side dish recipes. Your guests will thank you and you can now rest easy knowing you have simple and delicious options to serve. Bon appétit!
