Sometimes, even the best main courses need a little extra help to truly shine. That’s where side dishes come in. The right side dish can elevate a meal, transforming a lackluster dinner into a culinary success.
While we often rely on staples like mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, there are plenty of underrated side dishes that can take your meal to the next level. Here are 11 side dishes that are easy to make, delicious, and often overlooked.
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze
Brussels sprouts have come a long way from being a dreaded vegetable. When roasted to perfection and topped with a balsamic glaze, they offer a crispy, slightly sweet, and tangy bite. This simple yet sophisticated dish is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, making it a nutritious and flavorful side.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 38 |
| Fiber | 3.3 grams |
| Vitamin C | 125% DV |
2. Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Green beans are a classic side dish, but they’re often served plain. By sautéing them with garlic and sprinkling some Parmesan cheese on top, you add layers of flavor to this otherwise simple vegetable. This is a great low-carb side that pairs well with both meat and vegetarian mains.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
3. Herbed Quinoa
Quinoa is a protein-packed grain that’s a perfect alternative to rice or pasta. By adding fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and dill, along with a squeeze of lemon, you can turn this superfood into a refreshing and nutrient-dense side dish. It’s versatile and can complement almost any type of main course.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 222 |
| Protein | 8 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
4. Sweet Potato Wedges With Spicy Mayo
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, and they add a natural sweetness to your meal. When sliced into wedges and baked with a dash of paprika, they develop a crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with a creamy and spicy mayo dip. This dish is perfect for those who love a mix of sweet and spicy flavors.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 112 |
| Vitamin A | 368% DV |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
5. Farro Salad With Cranberries And Pecans
Farro is another nutrient-dense grain that’s often overlooked. Its chewy texture makes it perfect for cold salads. Add some dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a light vinaigrette to create a flavorful and hearty side dish that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Protein | 6 grams |
6. Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus is often served steamed, but roasting it with olive oil, lemon, and garlic brings out its best flavors. Roasting gives asparagus a slightly crispy texture, and the tang from the lemon makes it the perfect complement to seafood or poultry dishes.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 27 |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Vitamin K | 57% DV |
7. Cucumber And Dill Salad
This light and refreshing side dish is perfect for summer dinners. Thinly sliced cucumbers tossed with fresh dill and a vinegar-based dressing provide a crisp and tangy bite that balances out richer main dishes. It’s a low-calorie option that adds a fresh element to your meal.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 16 |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
8. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
Cauliflower steaks are an underrated side dish that offer a satisfying texture and can easily be the star of the meal. When roasted with olive oil and your favorite herbs, they develop a deep, caramelized flavor. Top with tahini sauce or Parmesan cheese for added richness.
| Nutrient | Per 1 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25 |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Vitamin C | 77% DV |
9. Stuffed Mushrooms With Goat Cheese
Mushrooms are a fantastic vehicle for all kinds of flavors. By stuffing large mushrooms with goat cheese, herbs, and garlic, you create a savory side that’s both creamy and earthy. These stuffed mushrooms work well with grilled meats and are a hit at any dinner party.
| Nutrient | Per 1 mushroom |
|---|---|
| Calories | 30 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Vitamin D | 22% DV |
10. Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a delicious way to use up extra zucchini. Made with shredded zucchini, eggs, and a little flour, these fritters can be seasoned to taste and served with a tangy yogurt dip.
| Nutrient | Per 2 fritters |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
11. Spinach And Feta Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a versatile side dish, and when stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, and quinoa, they become a protein-rich and flavorful option. The sweet bell peppers pair beautifully with the salty feta, creating a balanced side dish that works well with grilled meats or vegetarian mains.
| Nutrient | Per 1 stuffed pepper |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 8 grams |
| Fiber | 6 grams |
Conclusion:
Adding these underrated side dishes to your meals can completely transform a simple dinner into something special. From roasted vegetables to hearty grains, each dish brings a unique flavor and nutritional boost. Don’t let your main course go it alone—pair it with one of these side dishes to ensure a balanced, delicious, and satisfying meal.
FAQs
1. What Are Some Low-Carb Side Dishes?
Roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic Parmesan green beans, and cucumber dill salad are all great low-carb side dishes.
2. Are Stuffed Mushrooms Healthy?
Yes, stuffed mushrooms can be healthy, especially when filled with nutrient-dense ingredients like goat cheese, garlic, and herbs.
3. Can I Make Sweet Potato Wedges Healthier?
Yes, opt for baking instead of frying, and reduce the amount of oil used for a lower-calorie option.
4. What Grains Make Good Side Dishes?
Grains like quinoa, farro, and couscous are nutrient-packed options that make delicious side dishes.
5. Are Zucchini Fritters Gluten-Free?
Zucchini fritters can be made gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular flour.
