Are you looking to take your meals to the next level? One way to do that is by adding some delicious side dishes that complement the flavors of your main course. Here are 10 mouth-watering side dishes that can elevate any meal:
1. Roasted vegetables:
Whether you choose broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or any other vegetable, roasting them in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper can bring out their natural sweetness and add some crispy texture.
Roasted vegetables are a versatile and delicious side dish that can complement a variety of main courses. Not only do they add vibrant colors and textures to your plate, but they also pack a ton of flavor and nutrition.
The process of roasting vegetables is simple and straightforward. Start by preheating your oven to around 400°F (200°C). Then, chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a bowl with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or paprika, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Spread the seasoned vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will ensure that they cook evenly and don't stick to the pan. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-30 minutes, depending on the type and size of the vegetables. You can check for doneness by poking them with a fork or tasting a piece.
The result of roasting vegetables is a crispy exterior and a tender interior, with caramelized edges that enhance their natural sweetness. Roasted broccoli, for example, becomes crispy and slightly charred on the outside, while still being tender on the inside. Roasted cauliflower develops a nutty flavor and a golden brown color, while roasted carrots become sweet and juicy.
Roasted vegetables are also a great way to experiment with new flavors and combinations. You can mix and match different vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, or zucchini, to create a colorful and nutritious medley. You can also top the roasted vegetables with some grated Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Overall, roasted vegetables are an easy and tasty way to add some variety and nutrition to your meals. Try them out and see how they can elevate your next dinner
2. Garlic mashed potatoes:
The process of roasting vegetables is simple and straightforward. Start by preheating your oven to around 400°F (200°C). Then, chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a bowl with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or paprika, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Spread the seasoned vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will ensure that they cook evenly and don't stick to the pan. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-30 minutes, depending on the type and size of the vegetables. You can check for doneness by poking them with a fork or tasting a piece.
The result of roasting vegetables is a crispy exterior and a tender interior, with caramelized edges that enhance their natural sweetness. Roasted broccoli, for example, becomes crispy and slightly charred on the outside, while still being tender on the inside. Roasted cauliflower develops a nutty flavor and a golden brown color, while roasted carrots become sweet and juicy.
Roasted vegetables are also a great way to experiment with new flavors and combinations. You can mix and match different vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, or zucchini, to create a colorful and nutritious medley. You can also top the roasted vegetables with some grated Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Overall, roasted vegetables are an easy and tasty way to add some variety and nutrition to your meals. Try them out and see how they can elevate your next dinner
2. Garlic mashed potatoes:
assic side dish that never gets old, mashed pot5atoes can be made even better by adding roasted garlic, butter, and cream for a rich and creamy flavor.
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can accompany a variety of meals, from roasted meats to casseroles and stews. While plain mashed potatoes are delicious on their own, adding some extra ingredients can take them to a whole new level of flavor and comfort.
One of the most popular ways to jazz up mashed potatoes is by adding roasted garlic. Roasting garlic is a simple process that transforms the pungent cloves into a mellow and nutty flavor. To roast garlic, cut off the top of a whole garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, until the garlic cloves are soft and fragrant.
Once the roasted garlic is ready, you can easily incorporate it into your mashed potatoes. Start by boiling some peeled and diced potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Drain the water and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork. Add some butter, cream, and salt, and mix until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Finally, add the roasted garlic cloves and mash them into the mixture, using a fork or a blender.
The result of adding roasted garlic to mashed potatoes is a rich and flavorful side dish that can complement any main course. The roasted garlic adds a depth of umami flavor that pairs well with beef, chicken, or pork. The butter and cream also make the mashed potatoes creamier and silkier, with a luxurious mouthfeel.
If you want to add some extra pizzazz to your mashed potatoes, you can also experiment with other ingredients, such as grated cheese, chopped herbs, or caramelized onions. You can also try using different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes, for a variation of texture and flavor.
Overall, mashed potatoes with roasted garlic, butter, and cream is a timeless and comforting side dish that can elevate any meal. Try making it at home and enjoy the delicious and satisfying flavor
3. Grilled asparagus:
Asparagus is a delicate vegetable that can be easily overcooked, but when grilled to perfection with some olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, it can be a showstopper.
Grilled asparagus is a simple and elegant side dish that can add some color and freshness to any meal. Asparagus is a delicate vegetable that can quickly turn mushy if overcooked, so grilling it is a great way to preserve its texture and flavor while adding some smoky notes.
To grill asparagus, start by washing and trimming the ends of the asparagus spears. Drizzle them with some olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. You can also add some minced garlic, lemon zest, or chopped herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for extra flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and place the asparagus spears directly on the grates. Grill them for 3-5 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are charred on the outside and tender on the inside. You can check for doneness by poking them with a fork or tasting a piece.
Once the asparagus is grilled to your liking, you can top it with some grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice. The cheese will add some salty and nutty notes to the dish, while the lemon juice will add some brightness and acidity.
Grilled asparagus is a versatile side dish that can complement a variety of main courses, from grilled steak and chicken to roasted salmon and tofu. It is also a great side dish for spring and summer gatherings, as it can be prepared in advance and served at room temperature.
If you want to experiment with different flavors, you can also try marinating the asparagus before grilling it. A simple marinade of soy sauce, honey, and ginger can add some Asian-inspired flavors, while a balsamic vinegar and brown sugar marinade can add some sweet and tangy notes.
Overall, grilled asparagus with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice is a delicious and healthy side dish that can elevate any meal. Try making it at home and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavor
To grill asparagus, start by washing and trimming the ends of the asparagus spears. Drizzle them with some olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. You can also add some minced garlic, lemon zest, or chopped herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for extra flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and place the asparagus spears directly on the grates. Grill them for 3-5 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are charred on the outside and tender on the inside. You can check for doneness by poking them with a fork or tasting a piece.
Once the asparagus is grilled to your liking, you can top it with some grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice. The cheese will add some salty and nutty notes to the dish, while the lemon juice will add some brightness and acidity.
Grilled asparagus is a versatile side dish that can complement a variety of main courses, from grilled steak and chicken to roasted salmon and tofu. It is also a great side dish for spring and summer gatherings, as it can be prepared in advance and served at room temperature.
If you want to experiment with different flavors, you can also try marinating the asparagus before grilling it. A simple marinade of soy sauce, honey, and ginger can add some Asian-inspired flavors, while a balsamic vinegar and brown sugar marinade can add some sweet and tangy notes.
Overall, grilled asparagus with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice is a delicious and healthy side dish that can elevate any meal. Try making it at home and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavor
4. Quinoa salad:
Quinoa is a versatile grain that can be used as a base for a refreshing salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette.
Quinoa is a gluten-free and protein-rich grain that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its health benefits and versatility. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast porridges and pilafs to salads and bowls.
One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy quinoa is by making a refreshing salad with some crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, and a zesty dressing. This salad can be served as a side dish or a main course, depending on your appetite and preferences.
To make a quinoa salad, start by cooking some quinoa in boiling water or broth, following the package instructions. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
Meanwhile, prepare the salad ingredients. You can use any vegetables you like, but cucumber and cherry tomatoes are a classic combination that adds some crunch and sweetness to the dish. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese for some tangy and salty notes.
To make the dressing, whisk together some lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl. The lemon juice will add some acidity and brightness to the dish, while the honey will balance out the flavors and add some sweetness.
Once the quinoa is cooled and the salad ingredients are ready, mix everything together in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. You can adjust the seasoning with some salt and pepper, and garnish with some chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, if desired.
The result of making a quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that can complement a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken and fish to roasted vegetables and tofu. It is also a great dish for meal prep or picnics, as it can be stored in the fridge for several days and eaten cold or at room temperature.
Overall, quinoa salad is a healthy and delicious way to incorporate this versatile grain into your diet. Try making it at home and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors
5. Sweet potato fries:
One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy quinoa is by making a refreshing salad with some crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, and a zesty dressing. This salad can be served as a side dish or a main course, depending on your appetite and preferences.
To make a quinoa salad, start by cooking some quinoa in boiling water or broth, following the package instructions. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
Meanwhile, prepare the salad ingredients. You can use any vegetables you like, but cucumber and cherry tomatoes are a classic combination that adds some crunch and sweetness to the dish. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese for some tangy and salty notes.
To make the dressing, whisk together some lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl. The lemon juice will add some acidity and brightness to the dish, while the honey will balance out the flavors and add some sweetness.
Once the quinoa is cooled and the salad ingredients are ready, mix everything together in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. You can adjust the seasoning with some salt and pepper, and garnish with some chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, if desired.
The result of making a quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that can complement a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken and fish to roasted vegetables and tofu. It is also a great dish for meal prep or picnics, as it can be stored in the fridge for several days and eaten cold or at room temperature.
Overall, quinoa salad is a healthy and delicious way to incorporate this versatile grain into your diet. Try making it at home and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors
5. Sweet potato fries:
Photo by: Ella Olsson
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and delicious, and when cut into fries and baked with some paprika and garlic powder, they become a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Sweet potato fries are a tasty and healthy alternative to regular fries, and they are also easy to make at home. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and rich in vitamins and fiber, and when roasted in the oven with some spices, they become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
To make sweet potato fries, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, and cut them into thin strips or wedges, depending on your preference.
In a small bowl, mix together some olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, until well combined. Toss the sweet potato fries in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
Arrange the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them. This will allow them to cook evenly and become crispy. Bake the fries for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once the sweet potato fries are cooked, you can serve them hot with some dipping sauce, such as ketchup, aioli, or barbecue sauce. You can also sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro on top for some freshness and color.
Sweet potato fries are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses, from burgers and sandwiches to grilled chicken and fish. They are also a great snack or appetizer that can be shared with friends and family.
If you want to experiment with different flavors, you can try adding some cinnamon and maple syrup to the seasoning mixture for a sweet and spicy twist. You can also try using different varieties of sweet potatoes, such as purple or white, for some variation in color and taste.
Overall, sweet potato fries with paprika and garlic powder are a delicious and healthy side dish that can elevate any meal. Try making them at home and enjoy the crispy and flavorful result
6. Caprese salad:
A simple salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, and balsamic vinegar can add a burst of flavor and color to any meal.
Caprese salad is a classic Italian salad that is simple to make and bursting with flavor. It is made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil, and drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
To make caprese salad, start by slicing some fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes into thin rounds. Arrange them in a circular pattern on a serving platter, alternating between the cheese and the tomatoes.
Next, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves over the cheese and tomatoes. You can also tear the basil leaves into small pieces for a more rustic look.
Drizzle some balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the salad, making sure to coat all the ingredients evenly. You can also sprinkle some salt and pepper on top, if desired.
Once the salad is dressed, it is ready to serve. You can enjoy it as a side dish or a light lunch, served with some crusty bread or crackers.
Caprese salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. You can use different varieties of tomatoes, such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, for some variation in color and taste. You can also add some sliced avocado or roasted red peppers for some extra flavor and texture.
Overall, caprese salad is a delicious and healthy side dish that can elevate any meal with its fresh and vibrant flavors. Try making it at home and enjoy the simple yet delicious result
7. Baked beans:
A classic BBQ side dish, baked beans can be made from scratch with navy beans, bacon, onion, molasses, and other ingredients for a hearty and satisfying addition to your meal.
Baked beans are a classic BBQ side dish that can be made from scratch with simple ingredients. By using navy beans, bacon, onion, molasses, and other spices, you can create a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion.
To make baked beans from scratch, start by soaking some navy beans overnight in water. This will help soften the beans and make them easier to cook. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them with fresh water.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook some diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Next, add some diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened and golden brown. Add some minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Add the soaked navy beans to the pot, along with some chicken broth, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and other spices, such as smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2-3 hours, until the beans are tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Once the baked beans are cooked, you can add the cooked bacon back to the pot and stir to combine. You can also adjust the seasoning, if needed, by adding more salt, pepper, or spices.
Baked beans can be served hot or at room temperature, as a side dish for BBQ ribs, chicken, or pulled pork. They are also a great addition to potlucks, picnics, and other gatherings.
Overall, baked beans made from scratch are a delicious and satisfying side dish that can elevate any meal with their hearty and smoky flavor. Try making them at home and enjoy the savory and comforting result
8. Coleslaw:
Another classic side dish that can be customized to your taste, coleslaw can be made with cabbage, carrots, apple, mayo, vinegar, and spices for a refreshing and crunchy side.
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. By using cabbage, carrots, apple, mayo, vinegar, and other spices, you can create a refreshing and crunchy side dish that complements a variety of meals.
To make coleslaw, start by shredding some cabbage and carrots. You can use a food processor or a mandoline slicer to make the shredding process faster and more uniform. You can also add some shredded apple or other fruits for some extra sweetness and crunch.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together some mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. You can also add other spices, such as celery seed, paprika, or garlic powder, for some extra flavor.
Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the bowl, and toss to coat with the dressing. Make sure to mix well, so that all the vegetables are coated evenly.
Let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly.
Once the coleslaw is chilled, it is ready to serve. You can enjoy it as a side dish for BBQ, fried chicken, or sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos or burgers.
Coleslaw is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. You can use different types of cabbage, such as red or Napa cabbage, for some variation in color and taste. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as a vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing, for a healthier option.
Overall, coleslaw is a delicious and refreshing side dish that can elevate any meal with its crunchy and flavorful ingredients. Try making it at home and enjoy the customizable and satisfying result
9. Ratatouille:
To make coleslaw, start by shredding some cabbage and carrots. You can use a food processor or a mandoline slicer to make the shredding process faster and more uniform. You can also add some shredded apple or other fruits for some extra sweetness and crunch.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together some mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. You can also add other spices, such as celery seed, paprika, or garlic powder, for some extra flavor.
Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the bowl, and toss to coat with the dressing. Make sure to mix well, so that all the vegetables are coated evenly.
Let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly.
Once the coleslaw is chilled, it is ready to serve. You can enjoy it as a side dish for BBQ, fried chicken, or sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos or burgers.
Coleslaw is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. You can use different types of cabbage, such as red or Napa cabbage, for some variation in color and taste. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as a vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing, for a healthier option.
Overall, coleslaw is a delicious and refreshing side dish that can elevate any meal with its crunchy and flavorful ingredients. Try making it at home and enjoy the customizable and satisfying result
9. Ratatouille:
Photo by: Codrin Alex
Ratatouille is a traditional French vegetable stew that is not only delicious but also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. When cooked with some herbs and tomato sauce, it can become a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
To make ratatouille, start by prepping your vegetables. You will need eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Cut the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant.
Add the diced eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the pot, and sauté until they are lightly browned and tender. This will take about 10-12 minutes.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, and some herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should be soft and tender, and the sauce should be thick and flavorful.
Once the ratatouille is cooked, you can season it with salt and pepper, and add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for some extra freshness and color.
Ratatouille can be served hot or at room temperature, as a side dish for grilled meats or fish, or as a vegetarian main dish with some crusty bread. It is also a great option for meal prep, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheated easily.
Overall, ratatouille is a delicious and comforting side dish that is perfect for using up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. Try making it at home and enjoy the flavorful and healthy result
10. Garlic bread:
To make ratatouille, start by prepping your vegetables. You will need eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Cut the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant.
Add the diced eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the pot, and sauté until they are lightly browned and tender. This will take about 10-12 minutes.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, and some herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should be soft and tender, and the sauce should be thick and flavorful.
Once the ratatouille is cooked, you can season it with salt and pepper, and add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for some extra freshness and color.
Ratatouille can be served hot or at room temperature, as a side dish for grilled meats or fish, or as a vegetarian main dish with some crusty bread. It is also a great option for meal prep, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheated easily.
Overall, ratatouille is a delicious and comforting side dish that is perfect for using up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. Try making it at home and enjoy the flavorful and healthy result
10. Garlic bread:
Last but not least, garlic bread can be a quick and easy side dish that can be made with a baguette, butter, garlic, and herbs for a warm and comforting addition to any meal.
Garlic bread is a classic and easy-to-make side dish that can elevate any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm and comforting side that pairs well with pasta, soups, or salads.
To make garlic bread, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, slice a baguette into 1-inch slices, being careful not to cut all the way through.
In a small bowl, mix together some softened butter, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs, such as parsley, basil, or oregano. Spread the butter mixture on top of each slice of bread, making sure to get the butter mixture in between the slices.
Wrap the baguette in foil and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until the bread is warm and the butter is melted and bubbly.
Unwrap the bread and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to crisp up the top of the bread.
Once the garlic bread is done, you can serve it immediately, garnished with some chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Overall, garlic bread is a simple and delicious side dish that can be made in just a few minutes. With its warm and comforting flavor, it's a perfect addition to any meal. Try making it at home and enjoy the delicious aroma of garlic and butter
These 10 mouth-watering side dishes can elevate any meal and make it more exciting and enjoyable. Try them out and see which ones become your new favorites
Tags
SIDE DISHES