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    Home / Collections

    15 Sides That Make Any Meal Memorable

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Feb 19, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Are you ready to take your meals up a notch? Today, I'm thrilled to share with you a collection of sides that will transform any ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience. These sides aren't just about filling up the plate; they're about adding depth, flavor, and excitement to every bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, gathering with family, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal at home, these dishes are sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone around the table. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on old favorites, there's something here for every taste and occasion.

    What sets these sides apart is their ability to level up the entire dining experience. They're not just accompaniments; they're the stars of the show, stealing the spotlight with their bold flavors and irresistible aromas. Whether it's the crispy perfection of air-fried potatoes, the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese, or the fresh simplicity of garlic butter green beans, each dish has been carefully crafted to complement and enhance the main course. Plus, with simple and straightforward preparation methods, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying good food and great company.

    But perhaps the best part about these sides is the memories they create. Whether it's reminiscing over family dinners, celebrating special occasions, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, food has a magical way of bringing people together and creating lasting memories. With these sides on your menu, you're not just serving a meal; you're creating an experience-one that your loved ones will cherish for years to come. So, why settle for an ordinary dinner when you can make every meal memorable with these exceptional sides?

    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.

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    Roasted Cabbage Steaks

    Make every meal memorable with Roasted Cabbage Steaks, a simple yet delicious side dish that's bursting with flavor. These hearty cabbage steaks are seasoned with herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection until golden and tender. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to pair with any main course, they're the perfect way to add a nutritious and satisfying element to your meal. Whether you're serving them alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish, these roasted cabbage steaks are sure to impress with their crispy edges and delicious taste.
    Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

    Easy Scalloped Potatoes

    Elevate your dinner with Easy Scalloped Potatoes, a creamy and comforting side dish that's perfect for any occasion. These thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich and creamy sauce, then baked to golden perfection for a dish that's as satisfying as it is delicious. Quick and easy to prepare, they're the perfect addition to any meal, whether you're serving them alongside roast chicken or grilled steak. With their creamy texture and savory flavor, these scalloped potatoes are sure to become a family favorite that you'll want to make again and again.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoe

    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    Make any meal memorable with Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes, a simple and flavorful side dish that's perfect for any occasion. These juicy tomatoes are seasoned with herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection in the air fryer for a dish that's bursting with flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, they're the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a pop of color and freshness to every meal. Whether you're serving them alongside grilled meats or as a topping for salads and pasta dishes, these air fryer roasted Roma tomatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    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.

    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Impress your guests with Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer, a sweet and savory side dish that's perfect for any occasion. These tender carrots are coated in a sticky maple glaze, then cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a dish that's caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside. Quick and easy to prepare, they're the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of sweetness and warmth to every meal. Whether you're serving them alongside roast chicken or grilled steak, these maple glazed carrots are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Aloo Gobi Masala

    Make every meal memorable with Aloo Gobi Masala, a flavorful and aromatic side dish that's perfect for any occasion. This classic Indian dish features tender potatoes and cauliflower cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of fragrant spices for a dish that's bursting with flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of warmth and spice to every meal. Whether you're serving it alongside rice or naan, this Aloo Gobi Masala is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
    Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

    Impress your guests with Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes, a decadent and satisfying side dish that's perfect for any occasion. These fluffy potatoes are baked until tender, then hollowed out and filled with a creamy mixture of cheese, bacon, and green onions for a dish that's rich and indulgent. Quick and easy to prepare, they're the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of comfort and flavor to every meal. Whether you're serving them alongside steak or chicken, these cheesy loaded twice baked potatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

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

    Ratatouille

    Add a burst of flavor to any meal with Ratatouille, a colorful and hearty side dish that's perfect for any occasion. This classic French dish features a medley of vibrant vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, simmered in a rich tomato sauce until tender and flavorful. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your dinner table. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, this ratatouille is sure to impress with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

    Green Bean Casserole

    Make every meal memorable with Green Bean Casserole, a classic side dish that's beloved by all. This comforting casserole features tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, creating a dish that's rich, savory, and oh-so satisfying. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to any holiday feast or weeknight dinner. Whether you're serving it alongside roast turkey or baked ham, this green bean casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    Impress your guests with Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese, a crispy and cheesy side dish that's perfect for any occasion. These tender potatoes are smashed, seasoned, and air-fried until golden and crispy, then topped with melted cheese for an irresistible finish. Quick and easy to prepare, they're the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of comfort and indulgence to every meal. Whether you're serving them alongside grilled meats or as a snack, these air fryer smashed potatoes with cheese are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table, making them a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    Close-up of a spoon holding fried rice with crab meat, green onions, and red bell peppers.Pin
    Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crab Fried Rice

    Make every meal memorable with Crab Fried Rice, a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for seafood lovers. This fragrant rice dish is stir-fried with tender crab meat, aromatic vegetables, and savory seasonings for a dish that's packed with flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to every meal. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or a main course, this crab fried rice is sure to impress with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

    Seafood Pasta Salad

    Impress your guests with Seafood Pasta Salad, a refreshing and flavorful dish that's perfect for summer gatherings. This vibrant salad features tender pasta, succulent seafood, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing, creating a dish that's both nutritious and delicious. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of elegance and freshness to every meal. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or a light lunch, this seafood pasta salad is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Add a twist to your meal with Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage, a savory and satisfying side dish that's perfect for bacon lovers. This crispy cabbage is wrapped in smoky bacon and air-fried until golden and caramelized for a dish that's bursting with flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of indulgence and excitement to every meal. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish, this bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    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.

    Vegan Mexican Rice

    Spice up your meal with Vegan Mexican Rice, a flavorful and satisfying side dish that's perfect for vegans and meat-eaters alike. This fragrant rice dish is cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices for a dish that's packed with flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of spice and excitement to every meal. Whether you're serving it alongside tacos or enchiladas, this vegan Mexican rice is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    Make every meal memorable with Crock Pot Mac and Cheese, a creamy and indulgent side dish that's perfect for any occasion. This classic comfort food is made with tender pasta, creamy cheese sauce, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a dish that's rich, cheesy, and oh-so satisfying. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of comfort and nostalgia to every meal. Whether you're serving it alongside barbecue or as a standalone dish, this crock pot mac and cheese is sure to be a hit with the whole family, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

    Add a taste of the South to any meal with Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon, a flavorful and satisfying side dish that's perfect for any occasion. This classic Southern dish features tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and savory seasonings, creating a dish that's hearty, comforting, and oh-so delicious. Quick and easy to prepare, it's the perfect addition to your dinner table, adding a touch of Southern charm and flavor to every meal. Whether you're serving it alongside fried chicken or barbecue, this Southern fried cabbage with bacon is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table, making it a perfect choice for sides that make any meal memorable.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

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    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.

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