• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Little Bit Recipes
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Resources
    • Recipes
    • Subscribe
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home / Roundups

    33 Downscaled Sides and Salads That Will Change Everything

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Nov 2, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Are you looking for delicious and manageable meals? If so, you'll love these downscaled sides and salads that will genuinely change everything about your dining experience. From quick and easy preparations to mouthwatering flavors, these recipes cater to your solo or duo dining needs, promising a delightful twist to your everyday meals. Get ready to savor simplicity without compromising on taste with these game-changing recipes.

    Close-up of a wooden spoon holding ratatouille, featuring diced zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes, garnished with parsley.Pin
    Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Want to save this post?

    Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!

    Loading

    Green Bean Tomato Salad

    A plate of green beans with cherry tomato halves and crumbled feta, served with a fork on a white tablecloth.Pin
    Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Embrace the freshness of summer with our Green Bean Tomato Salad. This delightful side dish not only satisfies your taste buds but is a breeze to prepare. Packed with healthy ingredients, this salad is a game-changer for those seeking a quick and nutritious addition to their meals.
    Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

    Shrimp Macaroni Salad

    A bowl of shrimp pasta salad garnished with lemon slices and diced vegetables.Pin
    Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Elevate your salad game with the mouthwatering Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Creamy, zesty, and filled with plump seafood, this recipe is a taste sensation. Perfect for two, it's a fantastic choice for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their downscaled dining experience.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

    Santa Fe Salad

    A colorful chicken salad with avocado, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and lime slices, presented in a white bowl.Pin
    Santa Fe Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Indulge in the big and filling Santa Fe Salad, a refreshing and flavorful choice for downscaled meals. Ideal for using up leftovers, this salad brings a burst of Southwest-inspired goodness to your plate. It's a satisfying option that changes the game for solo or duo dining.
    Get the Recipe: Santa Fe Salad

    Vegan Mexican Rice

    Bowl of Mexican rice mixed with tomato sauce and garnished with a sprig of cilantro, with a fork inserted into the rice.Pin
    Vegan Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Enjoy a quick and delicious side dish with Vegan Mexican Rice. Perfectly paired with Tex-Mex favorites like tacos or burritos, this recipe is a go-to solution for those looking to spice up their downscaled meals with a burst of flavorful simplicity.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

    Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

    Bowl of sautéed cabbage topped with crispy bacon strips.Pin
    Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Satisfy your cravings with the classic Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. This easy yet incredibly flavorful side dish is a fantastic choice for downscaled dining. A comforting addition to any meal, it changes the game by delivering savory satisfaction in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

    Salmon Salad

    Grilled salmon fillet on top of a fresh green salad with tomatoes and olives, served on a white plate with a fork on the side.Pin
    Salmon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Treat yourself to a healthy and delicious meal with the best Salmon Salad recipe. With fresh ingredients and simple preparation, this flavorful dish is perfect for downscaled dining. It's a game-changer, offering a delightful combination of ease and great taste.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

    Broccoli Slaw Salad

    A plate of colorful broccoli slaw with shredded purple cabbage and carrots topped with dried cranberries and pine nuts, next to a red-checked napkin.Pin
    Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Say goodbye to boring salads and welcome the zesty and colorful Broccoli Slaw Salad. This refreshing option revolutionizes your lunch routine, bringing a burst of flavor and crunch to your downscaled meals. It's a delightful choice that changes everything about your salad game.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

    Chopped Greek Salad

    A fresh greek salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, olives, and peppers, served with a fork and a glass of water on the side.Pin
    Chopped Greek Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Immerse yourself in the Mediterranean flavors of the Chopped Greek Salad. Packed with traditional ingredients, it's an ideal choice for downscaled meals. This salad brings a variety of healthful elements, ensuring a satisfying and delicious addition to your dining routine.
    Get the Recipe: Chopped Greek Salad

    Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    A close-up of seasoned potato wedges served with a side of dipping sauce.Pin
    Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Love potato wedges without the excess grease? Our foolproof recipe for Air Fryer Potato Wedges delivers perfectly golden and crunchy potatoes. It's a game-changer for downscaled sides, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on the satisfying crunch.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    Seafood Pasta Salad

    Close-up of a spoon holding seafood pasta salad garnished with parsley, with more salad in the background.Pin
    Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Embrace the light and refreshing Seafood Pasta Salad for a downscaled summer delight. Combining shrimp, crab, and pasta in a creamy dressing, this recipe is a game-changer for those seeking a flavorful and satisfying option for solo or duo dining.
    Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

    Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

    Two halves of baked sweet potatoes topped with butter and garnished with herbs on a white plate, with a red checkered napkin on the side.Pin
    Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Discover the best way to make baked sweet potatoes with the Air Fryer. It's a game-changer, producing sweet and fluffy perfection every time. Ideal for downscaled meals, this recipe promises a quick and easy alternative to traditional baking, ensuring consistently delightful results.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

    Roasted Cabbage Steaks

    Sliced and roasted cabbage wedges seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with black pepper and fresh herbs.Pin
    Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Warm and comforting, Roasted Cabbage Steaks are set to become a favorite downscaled side dish. Topped with tasty seasonings, this healthy recipe is simple yet flavorful, offering a game-changing addition to your meal lineup. It's a savory delight that changes everything about your dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    Close-up of a spoon holding creamy mac and cheese garnished with green onions.Pin
    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Savor the ultimate cheesy delight with Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Slow-cooked to perfection, it's an easy-to-make dish that will wow your taste buds. Ideal for downscaled dinners, this recipe is a game-changer, delivering comfort and flavor without the hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    Easy Scalloped Potatoes

    Close-up of creamy scalloped potatoes topped with melted cheese and garnished with parsley in a baking dish.Pin
    Easy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Experience a cozy dinner for two with Easy Scalloped Potatoes. This simple and delicious side dish is always a hit, offering a downscaled option for those seeking a comforting meal. It's a game-changer in the world of downsized recipes, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Air-fried brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Discover the perfect way to roast Brussels sprouts in the Air Fryer. Enjoy crispy, delicious results with minimal effort, saying goodbye to soggy sprouts. It's a game-changer for downscaled sides, offering a quick and tasty alternative that promises perfectly crisp bites every time.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Broccoli Salad with Bacon

    A plate of broccoli salad with bits of bacon, served on a white oval dish alongside a wooden spoon.Pin
    Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Packed full of crunchy vegetables and savory bacon, this Broccoli Salad with Bacon is sure to be a hit. An easy and delicious downscaled side dish for any meal, it's a game-changer that adds flavor and crunch to your dining routine. Say goodbye to bland salads with this tasty and satisfying option.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

    Air Fryer Home Fries

    A plate of seasoned roasted potatoes and green bell peppers garnished with parsley.Pin
    Air Fryer Home Fries. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Delight in the deliciously crispy Air Fryer Home Fries - easy to make without all the fat. This game-changer transforms traditional fried potatoes into a healthy alternative. Perfect for downscaled meals, these home fries promise a satisfying crunch without the excess oil.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Home Fries

    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background.Pin
    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Try the delectable Maple Glazed Carrots recipe made in an Air Fryer. The caramelized flavor adds a touch of sweetness to your downscaled meals. A game-changer for side dishes, these glazed carrots are an irresistible addition, promising a burst of delightful taste with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Red Skin Potato Salad

    Bowl of potato salad garnished with fresh herbs and bacon on a white background.Pin
    Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Indulge in the deliciously creamy Red Skin Potato Salad, made with bacon for an extra savory kick. Enjoy this classic side dish at your summer BBQs - downscaled for two. A game-changer for those seeking downsized recipes, this potato salad promises to be a hit at every gathering.
    Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

    Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

    A salad with strawberries, blueberries and feta cheese.Pin
    Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Taste the vibrant flavors of summer with the Berry Salad. Adding blueberries and strawberries, along with a sweet and tangy dressing, this downscaled delight is a game-changer for your salad repertoire. It's a refreshing and flavorful choice that will forever change your approach to berry salads.
    Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Try these delicious Bacon-Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage wedges. The combination of sweet and salty flavors makes this recipe a game-changer for downscaled side dishes. Elevate your cabbage game with this easy and irresistible option, promising a delightful twist to your solo or duo dining experience.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Slow Cooker Rice

    A bowl of cooked white rice with a spoon and a garnish of fresh green parsley on top.Pin
    Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

    Learn how to make delicious rice effortlessly in the Slow Cooker. A game-changer for downscaled cooking, this method ensures the perfect fluffy rice every time. Ideal for those seeking simplicity without compromising on taste, this slow cooker rice recipe transforms your approach to this staple.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

    Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

    A roasted sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, and green onions, garnished with lime wedges on a white plate.Pin
    Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Upgrade your vegan dining experience with irresistible Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. A satisfying meal idea that's easy to make at home, this game-changer combines the goodness of sweet potatoes with savory taco flavors. Perfect for downscaled dinners, it promises a delightful twist on classic stuffed potatoes.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

    Green Beans with Garlic Butter

    A plate of green beans tossed with herbs and pine nuts.Pin
    Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Upgrade your veggie game with this easy Garlic Butter Green Bean recipe. Perfectly seasoned and full of flavor, it's a downscaled side dish you won't be able to resist. A game-changer for those seeking simplicity without compromising taste, these green beans elevate your dining experience with ease.
    Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

    Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

    Close-up of a spoonful of sweet potato casserole with a topping of toasted pecans and marshmallows.Pin
    Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Dive into savory sweetness with the heavenly Sweet Potato Casserole made with canned yams. A game-changer for downscaled meals, this delicious side dish promises an irresistible taste that will forever change your approach to sweet potato casseroles. It's a comforting delight perfect for solo or duo dining.
    Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    A plate of roasted tomatoes garnished with herbs and spices, served on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Elevate your tomato game with irresistibly flavorful Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, this game-changer delivers perfectly caramelized and tender tomatoes. Ideal for downscaled cooking, it promises rich, concentrated flavors in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    Zucchini Bruschetta

    Slices of zucchini topped with diced tomatoes, basil, grated cheese, and herbs are arranged on a white surface. These recipes from around the world are anything but boring.Pin
    Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

    Add a unique and delicious appetizer to your next gathering with Zucchini Bruschetta. A game-changer in the world of appetizers, this delectable recipe transforms zucchini into a tasty treat. Perfect for downscaled events, it promises to be a hit, offering a delightful twist on the classic bruschetta.
    Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

    A baking dish containing four twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and diced ham, garnished with herbs.Pin
    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Indulge in the cheesy and loaded goodness of Twice-Baked Potatoes. A perfect side dish for any night of the week, this game-changer is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Ideal for downscaled dining, it promises a satisfying and flavorful addition to your meal lineup.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

    Aloo Gobi Masala

    A pot of vegetable curry with cauliflower and potatoes, garnished with herbs, served with naan bread.Pin
    Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Try a tasty twist on a classic Indian dish with Aloo Gobi Masala. This delicious combination of potatoes, cauliflower, and spices cooked in a flavorful curry-style sauce is a game-changer for downscaled meals. Elevate your dinner with this easy and flavorful recipe, promising a delightful taste experience.
    Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

    Ratatouille

    Close-up of a wooden spoon holding ratatouille, featuring diced zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes, garnished with parsley.Pin
    Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Discover the deliciousness of Vegan Ratatouille! This version of the flavorful French dish combines zucchini and eggplant, making it a game-changer for downscaled meals. Perfect for solo or duo dining, this recipe promises a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite, changing your approach to vegan cuisine.
    Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

    Easy Radish Salad

    A plate of radish salad with diced celery and a creamy dressing, accompanied by a glass of water and salt and pepper shakers.Pin
    Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Give this Polish Radish Salad a try for a fresh and crunchy side dish that is easy to prepare. Combined with dill, cottage cheese, and sour cream, the tart little root vegetables transform into a tasty treat. A game-changer for downscaled salads, this easy recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional radish salads.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.Pin
    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Love the crunch and creamy goodness of Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes topped with melted cheese. A delicious side dish game-changer, this recipe is worth trying for downscaled cooking. It promises irresistible flavor and texture, creating a delightful addition to your solo or duo dining experience.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    Green Bean Casserole

    A ramekin of green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions, served on a wooden table.Pin
    Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This easy Green Bean Casserole recipe, sized for just two people, is perfect for downscaled dinners. Enjoy a taste of tradition without leftovers, making it a game-changer for those seeking a downsized version of the classic side dish. It promises familiarity and comfort without the usual surplus.
    Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

    FacebookXPinterestFlipboard

    More Roundups

    • A skillet with sweet potato casserole and pecans.
      25 Must Try Side Dishes for the Holiday Featuring Family Favorites
    • sliced carne asada on cutting board.
      21 Easy Oven-Baked Meals You Can Count On This Fall
    • A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
      6 Filipino Recipes You’ll Wish You Knew About Earlier
    • A bowl of hearty vegetable and meat soup with a spoon.
      21 Cheap Lunches You Didn’t Know Could Be This Simple

    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

    Read more →

    Popular

    • A bowl of brown rice with Hawaiian chicken on it.
      Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
    • edible cookie dough single serving for one.
      Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough
    • Sliced Italian artisan bread with buttered slice in front.
      No Knead Italian Artisan Bread
    • A sliced meatloaf on a white plate.
      Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (CopyCat)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Cooking

    • Scaling Recipes
    • Mini Pie Pans
    • Stories

    Recipes

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Desserts

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Newsletter

    LittleBitRecipes.com makes money through affiliate partner links: If you click on a link, we may earn a commission. Our writers create all reviews, recipes, and other content to inform readers, with no influence from our advertisers. LittleBitRecipes.com may earn from qualifying purchased made on Amazon.com. Learn more about our privacy policies, terms of use, and disclosures.

    Copyright © 2025. Little Bit Recipes. All Rights Reserved.