Side Dishes are what rounds out a meal and pairs well with the Main Dishes. No one wants to just have one thing on the plate, it would look empty.
A delicious and easy side dish is a great way to support and enhance the main course.
Whether they be a baked Rice Casserole or something as simple as an oven roasted vegetable, these easy sides will pair perfectly with anything you serve.
Popular Side Dishes
Popular sides tend to make the meal. The phrase “meat and potatoes” didn’t happen by accident. The best sides not only compliment the main dish, but also balance out the meal.
Of course, some sides pair better with a particular main course, but there are rarely hard and fast rules. In fact, taking a walk off the beaten trail of typical same old, same old is always fun to do. Like, try a rice side with beef instead of potatoes, and a potato side with fish. Go wild.
Popular side courses usually also tend to be easy to make too. Take a gander at some of these suggestions:
Side Dishes On A Diet
You don’t have to deny yourself a plat d’accompagnement (the fancy French terms for sides) on a diet. Life is too short for that. Finding a side dish that works on a diet is easy. The challenge is keeping the portion size reasonable, because sides that taste this good might beg a second helping or three…
Unusual Side Dishes
Sometimes, when time permits and creativity calls for an unusual side dish, you may need some inspiration to unlock the full potential of a great side.
These suggestions carry various levels of difficulty, but none are so challenging you would need Martha Stewart on speed dial.
Side Dishes For Chicken, Beef, And Pork
Pairing side courses with main courses like beef, chicken, or pork means taking a few things under deep consideration. Allow yourself at least ten seconds of deep meditation to contemplate the possibilities.
Is the main dish the star of the meal? Do you need the side to sate the appetite? Filet mignon is great, but no one is going to get full eating that tiny little tenderloin!
Side dishes to the rescue!
Sides As A Main Course
Ok, sometimes the side course that accompanies the main course takes center stage. And why not? In fact, sometimes a side becomes a great main course.
Especially when it comes to leftovers!
So, feel free to make a little extra… Some of these are even better the next day.
Forget the pre-made baked beans in a can, you can make these Slow Cooker Baked Beans at home and run some errands while these simmer in your slow cooker or crockpot. Your weekend cookout just got that much easier, and even more delicious! The Best Baked Beans Summer cookouts will never be the same! I …
Read More about Slow Cooker Baked Beans
This PF Chang’s Copycat Spicy Green Beans recipe is my favorite way of enjoying fresh green beans. Full of flavor while being the perfect mix of crisp and tender. Enjoy these as a side dish to virtually any main dish for extra texture, healthy veggies, and a spicy kick!
Read More about Spicy Green Beans (PF Chang’s Copycat)
This delicious classic Hamburger Gravy recipe is both creamy and meaty, and it’s quick and easy to make. This comforting dish makes the perfect weeknight dinner to accompany your favorite pasta or potato dish. With only a few ingredients dinner can be ready and on your plates in less than 30 minutes!
Read More about Classic Hamburger Gravy (15 Minutes!)
What do I serve with meatloaf for dinner? That is one of those things you ask yourself when you just don’t want the same old, same old thing. You want to step out and get… creative. You need options. Because meatloaf is actually a great starting point for endless creativity. (Even though all too often …
Read More about What to Serve with Meatloaf (80+ Ideas)
This delicious twist on a taco salad is one of my favorite recipes. Featuring seasoned ground beef, green peppers, and tangy Catalina dressing (or French dressing if you prefer), this taco pasta salad recipe is ready to serve in no time! Taco Pasta Salad Recipe Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a …
Read More about Taco Pasta Salad (Flavorful Side Dish)
Street Corn Pasta Salad is a unique side dish that will spice up any party! This pasta salad combines sweet corn, black beans, chili powder, and cilantro to create a deliciously creamy side dish. Street Corn Pasta Salad Tired of the same dishes being passed around at every potluck, dinner party, or get-together? This Mexican …
Read More about Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
If you are wondering what dish to serve with Perogies, then you have come to the right place. Whether your thinking about classic regional pairings or trying to make something less traditional, then I have you covered. And that is a pretty wide area to cover. Because perogies come in such a variety, filled with …
Read More about What to Serve with Perogies
Homemade Potato Salad is perfect for that summer BBQ, picnic, or weekend grilling! Skip the last-minute run to the store and whip up this simple and easy recipe for a side dish that everyone loves. Creamy Potato Salad Worried about making homemade potato salad? Do not fear! This classic potato salad recipe is easy, quick, and perfect for so many …
Read More about The Best Homemade Potato Salad
Cornbread is a traditional southern comfort food classic we all know and love. With a soft and tender center with the coveted crispy golden edges, it is a delicious and handy side dish that compliments so many other sides and mains. My favorite cornbread recipe is made in a cast iron skillet and is ready …
Read More about What to Serve with Cornbread
Finding side dishes for meals can be tough, especially when you have a family to feed. You want there to be something for everyone. Rest assured that this list of side dishes to go with chicken pot pie is the perfect companion for you. From bacon baked beans to elote salad, this extensive list will …
Read More about What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie