25 Side Dishes That Get Eaten Before the Main Course

ByZuzana

There are 25 side dish ideas here that show how quickly a supporting dish can become the main attraction without trying too hard. I like having a collection like this on hand because it takes the pressure off planning and still feels like you’ve covered all the bases. It works for anything from relaxed weekends to bigger gatherings where variety matters.

Almond Flour Biscuits on top of each other with chives.
Almond Flour Biscuits. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Rutabaga Fries

Rutabaga Fries serves in a glass.
Rutabaga Fries. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Ever tried swapping out your usual side for something unexpectedly delicious? These Rutabaga Fries deliver the perfect combo of crispy edges and tender bites. They’re great for when you want something that stands out without going overboard. Honestly, they might just steal the spotlight from the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries

Skewered Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Bacon wrapped brussels sprouts on skewers.
Skewered Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These Skewered Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are everything you’d expect from pairing crispy, smoky bacon with roasted veggies; simple yet incredibly flavorful. Perfect for casual dinners or something a little special, they always get lookout on the table. I’ve always loved side dishes that feel like an appetizer, and these definitely fit the bill.
Get the Recipe: Skewered Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Steamed Artichoke

An artichoke in a bowl with lemon slices and a fork.
Steamed Artichoke. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

There’s something undeniably fun about sitting around with these Steamed Artichoke and peeling back their layers to get to the best part. It’s one of those foods that feels more like an experience. The flavor is mild yet comforting, making it a great choice for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or as a shareable dish, it always stands out.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Artichoke

Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh Salad inside colorful bowls.
Tabbouleh Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, these Tabbouleh Salad bowls tend to get scooped up before plates are even filled. I love how something so simple can feel special at any gathering or quiet evening meal. It fits right in alongside heavier dishes but still holds its own with bold, vibrant flavors. Whether as a side or even on its own, it’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Tabbouleh Salad

Brussel Sprouts Casserole

Brussel Sprouts Casserole piece on a white plate.
Brussel Sprouts Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Honestly, I’ve always felt like casseroles don’t need to be complicated to impress; this Brussels Sprouts Casserole delivers everything you want in a side dish. It’s hearty and warm without overshadowing the rest of your meal. Somehow, it always manages to be front and center when sides are being served.
Get the Recipe: Brussel Sprouts Casserole

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

A bowl of creamy mashed cauliflower garnished with parsley, with raw cauliflower, parsley, and riced cauliflower in the background.
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower. Photo credit: Lets Cook Today.

If you’re skipping the potatoes, these Garlic Mashed Cauliflower are the next best thing. Creamy, smooth, and full of savory flavor, you won’t miss the heavy starch. This dish strikes that balance of indulgent and light with ease. Whether you’re pairing it with a roast or grilled favorites, this side always works.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Casserole with Beans and Mushrooms

A plate of green bean mushroom casserole with fried onions.
Casserole with Beans and Mushrooms. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

There’s something unbeatable about how these Casserole with Beans and Mushrooms bring a little heartiness to your dinner spread. It’s comforting without being too heavy, perfect for cooler evenings. I love sides that feel substantial, and this one has that perfect mix of texture and flavor. It’s one of those dishes everyone won’t stop reaching for.
Get the Recipe: Casserole with Beans and Mushrooms

Cheese & Cauliflower Rice

Cheesy Cauliflower Rice on a spoon with melted cheese strikes.
Cheese & Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These Cheese & Cauliflower Rice do something amazing; they bring richness to the table without being overwhelming. The creamy texture paired with the lightness of the cauliflower makes them irresistible. This is one of those sides that pairs beautifully with pretty much anything. It’s an easy win for casual dinners or fancier get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Cheese & Cauliflower Rice

Classic Italian Eggplant with Parmesan Casserole

Spoon lifting melted cheesy eggplant parmesan serving.
Classic Italian Eggplant with Parmesan Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

There’s a reason these Classic Italian Eggplant with Parmesan Casserole deserve a spot at the table; they’re hearty, layered with texture, and pack bold flavors you won’t forget. It holds its own next to any main dish with confidence. When I think of comfort food, this one always comes to mind. Perfect for when you want something that feels special but homey.
Get the Recipe: Classic Italian Eggplant with Parmesan Casserole

Crispy Oven-Baked Zucchini

Crispy Baked Zucchini served on a white plate.
Crispy Oven Baked Zucchini. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

If you’ve ever bitten into something crispy and instantly wanted more, these Crispy Oven Baked Zucchini are exactly that kind of side dish. They deliver crunch without the need for frying, making them an easy favorite. It’s honestly hard to imagine a plate without them disappearing fast. Perfect for when you want something light yet enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Oven Baked Zucchini

Faux Potato Salad

A white bowl of potato salad with mayonnaise.
Faux Potato Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These Faux Potato Salad manage to pull off something special; they capture that classic potato salad vibe without actually using potatoes. It’s proof that some swaps are worth trying. I’ve had moments where side dishes like this become the main event for me. The creamy texture and bold flavors just work with practically anything.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad

Breaded Cauliflower

Pieces of breaded cauliflower close up.
Breaded Cauliflower. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Crispy coating and tender bites; that’s exactly what these Breaded Cauliflower bring to the table every time. They’re the kind of side dish that feels almost like a little treat on every plate. Perfectly shareable or easy to serve, they make any meal feel just a bit more interesting. Trust me, this one will be gone before anyone asks for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Cauliflower

Fresh Basil and Goat Cheese Salad with Green Beans

A bowl of green bean salad with sliced red onions, slivered almonds, goat cheese, lettuce, and walnuts, placed on a gray plate with a fork beside it.
Fresh Basil and Goat Cheese Salad with Green Beans. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Have you ever had a side that feels like the perfect balance between light and bold? These Fresh Basil and Goat Cheese Salad with Green Beans are exactly that: fresh, vibrant, and just the right amount of indulgence. The basil brings out something truly memorable in this dish. This is a favorite at dinner tables all year-round.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Basil and Goat Cheese Salad with Green Beans

Fried Rice from Cauliflower

A bowl of cauliflower fried rice with peas, carrots, scrambled eggs, and chopped green onions, served with a fork.
Fried Rice from Cauliflower. Photo credit: Lets Cook Today.

These Fried Rice from Cauliflower might have you questioning whether cauliflower could possibly replace regular rice; it absolutely can. The magic of this dish isn’t just the comfort it brings but the way it blends into nearly any meal seamlessly. Great for lunches, dinners, or anything in between.
Get the Recipe: Fried Rice from Cauliflower

Kale Salad with Parmesan Cheese

A white bowl filled with kale salad, topped with sliced almonds and grated cheese, with a fork resting on the side.
Kale Salad with Parmesan Cheese. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Crunchy, fresh, and bold, this Kale Salad with Parmesan Cheese delivers a side dish that feels both hearty and refreshing. It’s the kind of salad you might forget is even a side; it’s that good. Perfect for pairing with heavier dishes, it balances out the meal effortlessly. This salad is always a solid choice when you want something reliable yet packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad with Parmesan Cheese

Air Fryer Cabbage Steak

A plate of grilled cabbage wedges topped with herbs.
Air Fryer Cabbage Steak. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

These Air Fryer Cabbage Steak prove just how much flavor you can pack into a simple vegetable. The caramelized edges and tender middle create a texture that’s hard to beat. It’s a side that’s anything but ordinary, and perfect for when you’re looking for something memorable without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cabbage Steak

Roasted Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

Two halves of roasted butternut squash with pecans and chopped herbs on a white plate, next to forks, pepper, and extra pecans on a striped tablecloth.
Roasted Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

There’s something so comforting about these Roasted Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan; it’s warm, creamy, and feels like a celebration of fall flavors. I love how they bring this satisfying richness to the table without overwhelming the meal. Whether you pair it with roasted meats or lighter mains, this dish fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

Blue Cheese Salad

A bowl of shredded chicken salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, mixed greens, and crumbled cheese, with cucumber slices and spinach leaves nearby.
Blue Cheese Salad. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Salads don’t have to be boring, and this Blue Cheese Salad is proof of that. The bold bite of the cheese pairs beautifully with crisp greens and balanced flavors throughout. It’s perfect for meals where you want something that stands out without stealing the show. Whether you love salads or not, this one will have you coming back for more every time.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Salad

Broccoli and Cauli Casserole

A plate of baked broccoli and cauliflower bake topped with melted cheese and breadcrumbs, served with a fork.
Broccoli and Cauli Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

I’ve always loved dishes that feel hearty without being overpowering, and this Broccoli and Cauli Casserole delivers on that perfectly. Creamy and full of texture, it’s the kind of side that feels substantial without ever feeling heavy. This dish works beautifully alongside roasted mains or even lighter proteins. Honestly, it’s one of those casseroles you’ll want on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli and Cauli Casserole

Refreshing Cucumber Dill Salad with Red Onion

A white bowl filled with sliced cucumbers, red onions, and fresh dill, placed on a white plate with a fork and spoon beside it.
Refreshing Cucumber Dill Salad with Red Onion. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Light, crunchy, and packed with brightness, this Refreshing Cucumber Dill Salad with Red Onion feels like the ultimate cool side dish. They fit perfectly as a counterbalance to heavier meals, adding that refreshing touch you didn’t know you needed. It’s perfect for quick lunches or larger meals where something bright rounds everything out nicely.
Get the Recipe: Refreshing Cucumber Dill Salad with Red Onion

Old Fashion Squash Casserole

A close-up of a serving spoon holding a portion of cheesy baked casserole with yellow squash and a crumb topping, above a glass baking dish with more casserole.
Old Fashion Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Warm, comforting, and rich, this Old Fashion Squash Casserole stands out as the kind of dish you can bring to any gathering and know it’ll be a hit. They feel like classic dinner table fare but still manage to shine in modern meals. I love how this kind of side can work year-round without ever feeling out of place. It’s cozy and just the right amount of indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashion Squash Casserole

Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta

A bowl of salad with feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, green peppers, and fresh mint, served with a fork.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Vibrant in color and flavor, this Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta reminds you that sometimes simple dishes can feel the most special. They’re perfect for adding brightness to your meal, especially with heavier mains. This salad has that perfect balance of fresh crunch and bold, creamy bites. Great for summer dinners or any meal that needs a light boost.
Get the Recipe: Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Feta

Zucchini Patties with Chicken

A white plate with several zucchini patties garnished with chopped green onions, and a wooden skewer resting on the edge.
Zucchini Patties with Chicken. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

These Zucchini Patties with Chicken pack bold flavors into every bite while delivering a satisfying crunch. Perfect as a side or even a mini appetizer, they’re versatile enough to fit into almost any occasion. I’ve always enjoyed how dishes like this bring a little creativity to ordinary meals.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Patties with Chicken

Almond Flour Biscuits

Almond Flour Biscuits on top of each other with chives.
Almond Flour Biscuits. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Flaky, buttery, and packed with flavor, these Almond Flour Biscuits can’t help but stand out as a great addition to any table. I love how they manage to be both light and hearty at the same time, perfect for accompanying nearly any main dish. Whether you’re creating a cozy breakfast spread or rounding out dinner, they’ve got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Biscuits

Whole Baked Onions with Filling

A bowl of cooked onions topped with spices and oil, served with sliced baguette on a white surface.
Whole Baked Onions with Filling. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

Unexpectedly delicious and packed with flavor, these Whole Baked Onions with Filling offer a unique twist on classic sides. The way their natural sweetness balances with the filling makes every bite feel indulgent. Perfect for both casual meals or something a little transformed, they’re the kind of dish that feels memorable without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Whole Baked Onions with Filling