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    Home / Collections

    11 Sides You Probably Haven't Explored Until Now

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Mar 24, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    A collage of four vegetarian dishes, featuring sides you probably haven't explored until now.

    If you're tired of the same old sides on repeat, you're in for a treat. In this blog post, we're diving into a world of sides you probably haven't explored until now. From unexpected flavor combinations to unique cooking methods, these dishes are sure to add excitement to your meals and inspire your inner chef. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other!

    green bean tomato salad on plate with fork.

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    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Air fried glazed carrots in a white bowl next to a checkered tablecloth.
    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Elevate your dinner table with these maple glazed carrots cooked to perfection in the air fryer, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and savory flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, these carrots are an excellent choice for sides you probably haven't explored until now. Whether paired with roasted chicken or grilled steak, they add a touch of elegance to any meal and are sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Ratatouille

    A blue Bowl of Vegan Ratatouille.
    Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Embark on a culinary adventure with this classic French dish, showcasing a colorful medley of vegetables cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. With its rustic charm and vibrant presentation, ratatouille is a side dish you probably haven't explored until now. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread and a salad, it offers a taste of Provence that's both comforting and satisfying, making it a must-try for any occasion.
    Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

    Aloo Gobi Masala

    Aloo gobi masala in skillet with naan bread.
    Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Indulge in the aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine with this delicious aloo gobi masala, featuring tender potatoes and cauliflower simmered in a fragrant blend of spices and herbs. With its bold flavors and comforting appeal, this dish is a perfect choice for sides you probably haven't explored until now. Whether served with naan bread or rice, it offers a satisfying and wholesome meal that's sure to please your palate and leave you craving more.
    Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

    Zucchini Bruschetta

    Zucchini bruschetta on parchment paper.
    Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Level up your side dish game with Zucchini Bruschetta, a unique option you might not have considered before. This recipe offers a fresh twist on classic bruschetta by using zucchini instead of bread, making it lighter and gluten-free. It's quick to prepare and bursting with flavors from ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and garlic. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light appetizer, this dish is sure to impress your guests and add a healthy touch to any meal.
    Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

    Green Beans with Garlic Butter

    Green beans with pine nuts on a plate.
    Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Green Beans with Garlic Butter is a simple yet flavorful side dish that deserves a spot on your dinner table. If you're looking to explore new sides, this recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional green beans. The combination of tender-crisp green beans and fragrant garlic butter creates a mouthwatering dish that complements any main course. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it's an easy way to add some veggie goodness to your meal without sacrificing taste.
    Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

    Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

    Cabbage and bacon in white serving bowl.
    Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Step into Southern comfort with this Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe, offering a taste of classic Southern cuisine. If you're seeking sides you haven't explored, this dish brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and hearty side. The savory bacon adds richness to the tender cabbage, while onions and spices infuse each bite with comforting flavors. Whether served alongside fried chicken or as a standalone dish, it's sure to become a family favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

    Crab Fried Rice

    A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat.
    Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Treat yourself to a taste of the coast with Crab Fried Rice, a seafood-inspired side dish that promises to elevate your meal experience. When seeking sides that offer a touch of luxury, this recipe delivers the savory flavors of crabmeat, fragrant jasmine rice, and aromatic spices. It's a great way to indulge in restaurant-quality flavors at home without the hefty price tag. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress dinner guests with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    Cheesy smashed potatoes on a plate next to Christmas decor.
    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Get ready to savor every bite of these Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese, a delightful twist on classic roasted potatoes. For those on the hunt for sides that pack a punch, these smashed potatoes offer a crispy exterior, creamy interior, and gooey melted cheese topping. Using the air fryer ensures they cook up quickly and evenly, resulting in a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether served as a side dish or party appetizer, these cheesy smashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    Green Bean Tomato Salad

    Green beans and tomatoes on a white plate.
    Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This salad is a fresh take on green beans, mixing them with juicy tomatoes for a burst of flavor. It's a great option for those looking for something new in their side dishes, adding a pop of color and taste to the table. With simple prep and few ingredients, it's perfect for busy days or relaxed gatherings. Whether as a side or a light meal, this salad is sure to please.
    Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

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

    These bacon-wrapped cabbage bundles are a delicious twist on regular cabbage, combining savory bacon with tender cabbage. They're perfect for those wanting to try something different with their sides, bringing a tasty and satisfying addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and easy prep, they're ideal for quick dinners or special occasions. Whether you're a cabbage lover or trying it for the first time, these bundles are a great choice.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Roasted Brussels sprouts on a white plate.
    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crispy Brussels sprouts are a game-changer for anyone looking for an easy and tasty side dish they haven't explored before. They're perfectly crispy outside and tender inside, offering a great texture and flavor combo. Whether you're a Brussels sprouts fan or new to them, this recipe promises delicious results with minimal effort. With just a handful of ingredients and short cooking time, they're a simple way to jazz up your meals.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

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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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