10 Easy Side Dishes to Serve with Dinner

When it comes to cooking a delicious meal, the perfect sides can make all the difference. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for your family, a great side dish can elevate the entire dining experience. But let’s be real, not everyone has hours to spend in the kitchen perfecting a complicated recipe.

That’s why we’ve rounded up some easy side dish ideas that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From creamy mashed potatoes to flavorful roasted vegetables, we’ve got you covered with these quick and tasty options that are perfect for any occasion.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Garlic Butter Green Beans are a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. The bright, crisp texture of fresh green beans complements the rich, savory taste of garlic and butter. This easy-to-make recipe can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners.

PIN IT

1. Start by trimming the ends of 1 pound of fresh green beans and rinsing them under cold water. 2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. 3. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. 4. Toss in the green beans and stir to coat them in the garlic butter. 5. Cook the green beans for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still crisp. 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Crispy Roasted Potatoes are the perfect addition to any meal, bringing a delightful crunch and golden color to your plate. Seasoned with herbs and garlic, these potatoes are both flavorful and easy to prepare. Whether served as a side dish for dinner or as a snack, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

PIN IT

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. Wash and cut the potatoes into small cubes or wedges. 3. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and any preferred herbs (like rosemary or thyme) until well coated. 4. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 5. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. 6. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.

Creamy Coleslaw Salad

Creamy Coleslaw Salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Packed with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, it’s a delightful addition to summer barbecues and picnics. This easy-to-make salad can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

PIN IT

1. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of shredded green cabbage and 1 cup of shredded carrots. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. 3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing well to combine. 4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey Glazed Carrots are a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich flavor of honey. This simple recipe is perfect for any meal, making your dinner table look vibrant and inviting. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

PIN IT

1. Begin by washing and peeling 1 pound of fresh carrots, then cut them into uniform pieces. 2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. 3. Add the carrots to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften. 4. Pour in 2 tablespoons of honey and season with salt and pepper to taste. 5. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the carrots are tender and glazed. 6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Simple Tomato Salad

Simple Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that highlights the natural flavors of ripe tomatoes. With just a few ingredients, it serves as a perfect side for any meal, bringing a burst of freshness to your table. This easy recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing for various seasonings and additions.

PIN IT

1. Start by selecting ripe, juicy tomatoes; approximately 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes will suffice. 2. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and cut them into wedges or slices, depending on your preference. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes with salt to taste, a drizzle of olive oil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for added flavor. 4. Optionally, you can add chopped fresh basil or parsley for a herbal note. 5. Gently toss the ingredients until the tomatoes are well-coated with the dressing, then serve immediately for the best taste.

Lemon Herb Quinoa

Lemon Herb Quinoa is a light and refreshing side dish perfect for any meal. This easy-to-make recipe features fluffy quinoa tossed with zesty lemon juice and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or as a complement to your favorite protein for a nutritious addition to your table.

PIN IT

1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water until water runs clear. 2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, and bring to a boil. 3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. 4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. 5. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in the juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a handful of chopped fresh parsley and basil. 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm or at room temperature.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. The bright green spinach is quickly cooked to retain its nutrients and vibrant color, while the garlic adds an aromatic depth to the taste. This dish is not only healthy but also a quick option to elevate your meal with minimal effort.

PIN IT

1. Start by rinsing 8 cups of fresh spinach under cold water to remove any dirt. 2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 3. Add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. 4. Gradually add the spinach to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic and oil; it may seem like a lot, but it will wilt down significantly. 5. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is fully wilted and tender. 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Classic Caesar Salad

Classic Caesar Salad is a timeless dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce with a creamy, tangy dressing. This salad is often topped with crunchy croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, providing a delightful contrast in textures. Perfect as a side dish, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal.

PIN IT

1. Start by washing and drying 1 large head of romaine lettuce, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper to taste, until smooth. 3. In a large bowl, toss the lettuce with the dressing until well coated. 4. Add 1/2 cup of homemade or store-bought croutons and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, then gently toss again. 5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the Cob is a delightful and sweet side dish that complements any summer meal. It’s simple to prepare and can be enjoyed grilled, boiled, or roasted. Topped with butter and a sprinkle of salt, it brings a burst of flavor and freshness to your dinner table.

PIN IT

1. Start by shucking the corn, removing the husks and silk. 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the corn and cook for 4-6 minutes until tender. 3. Alternatively, you can grill the corn on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through and slightly charred. 4. Once cooked, remove from heat and brush with melted butter, seasoning with salt, pepper, or any preferred toppings before serving.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the hearty texture of chickpeas with colorful vegetables and zesty dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect as a side dish or light meal, making it ideal for warm days or any gathering. With its blend of flavors and health benefits, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

PIN IT

1. Rinse and drain 1 can of chickpeas and place them in a large mixing bowl. 2. Chop 1 cucumber, 1 bell pepper, and a handful of cherry tomatoes, and add them to the bowl with the chickpeas. 3. Finely chop a small red onion, a handful of parsley, and add them to the mixture. 4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. 5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. 6. Let the salad sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.