30+ Side Recipes for Dinner Packed With Flavor

Some nights you’ve got the main dish figured out, but the side dish situation feels like a whole separate decision. I totally get it. That’s why I put together this list of 30+ side recipes that bring big flavor without a lot of fuss. From crispy potatoes to bright, fresh veggies, these dishes add that little something extra that makes dinner feel complete.

I love having a mix of quick air fryer favorites, cozy stovetop classics, and simple oven-baked sides because it keeps dinner fun instead of repetitive. These are the recipes I reach for when I want something easy that still gets everyone excited to sit down and eat. You’ll find plenty of delicious ideas here to help round out any meal with minimal effort.

 

1. Braised Collard Greens

These braised collard greens make such a cozy, flavorful side dish, especially when you want something warm and hearty on the table. They simmer down into tender, silky greens with just the right balance of savory broth, a little tang from the vinegar, and a gentle kick of heat if you like some spice. They pair beautifully with anything from roasted chicken to barbecue, and they’re the kind of simple, comforting side that brings a whole meal together.

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2. Garlic Parmesan Fries

These garlic parmesan fries are the kind of side dish that disappears the second they hit the table. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and every bite is coated in buttery garlic and plenty of Parmesan. They work perfectly with just about any main dish, from burgers to roasted chicken, and they’re easy enough to whip up on a busy night when you want something a little extra without a lot of effort.

Servings: 1

Ingredients:

• 2 small potatoes
• ¼ cup corn starch
• ¼ cup salted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly.

2. Slice them on a cutting board into thick steak-style fries.

3. Boil the potatoes for 5 minutes.

4. Transfer them to an ice bath to cool.

5. While they chill, melt the butter in the microwave.

6. Stir the garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning into the melted butter and set it aside.

7. Remove the potatoes from the ice bath, pat them dry, and sprinkle with cornstarch. Use your hands to coat them evenly.

8. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat.

9. Test the oil by dipping in one fry. When it sizzles, add all the potatoes.

10. Cook, stirring every few minutes, for about 7 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

11. Lift them from the pan and let any excess oil drain off.

12. Toss the hot fries in the garlic-Parmesan butter until fully coated.

13. Finish with extra Parmesan and a little salt, then enjoy!

3. Mini Baked Potatoes

These mini baked potatoes make such a fun and easy side dish, especially when you want something bite-sized and comforting. They crisp up beautifully in the oven, then get topped with melty cheddar, smoky bacon, and fresh green onions for the perfect mix of flavors. They’re great alongside weeknight dinners, but they also double as a crowd-pleasing appetizer when you’re feeding a group.

Servings: 40 mini potatoes

Ingredients:

• 20 Mini Golden potatoes, halved
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Salt
• 2 teaspoons Pepper

Toppings: 

• ½ cup Cheddar Cheese
• ½ cup Bacon Bits
• 2 Green Onions, chopped
• Sour Cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Wash and dry the mini golden potatoes, then cut each one in half. If needed, slice a thin piece off the rounded bottom so they sit flat.

4. Arrange the potatoes cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

6. Bake for 15 minutes.

7. Remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle each potato with cheddar cheese and bacon bits.

8. Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Take them out of the oven and garnish with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream if you like.

10. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or party snack.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate cozy side dish, especially when you want something creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. The roasted garlic adds a mellow, buttery sweetness that takes this classic to a whole new level, and the texture turns out beautifully smooth every time.

Servings: 5

Ingredients:

• 1 lb potatoes
• 1 head garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp nutmeg, grated
• ½ tsp heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and wrap it tightly in foil. Roast in a preheated 170°C (340°F) oven for about 30 minutes, until soft and golden. You can make this ahead since roasted garlic keeps in the fridge for a few days.

2. Peel and rinse the potatoes, then cut them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

3. Remove the garlic from the oven, unwrap the foil, and let it cool slightly.

4. Squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins and mash them with a fork until smooth.

5. Drain most of the water from the potatoes, leaving a little behind in case you need it for adjusting the texture. Mash the potatoes while they’re still hot.

6. Add the butter, heavy cream, nutmeg, and black pepper. Continue mashing until the potatoes turn smooth and creamy.

7. Stir in the roasted garlic paste and mix until everything is fully combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

8. Serve warm, adding a pat of butter and fresh herbs on top if you like.

5. Oven Roasted Vegetables

This is such a warm and comforting side dish that brings a mix of tender roasted veggies with a hint of sweetness and cozy spice. Everything caramelizes beautifully in the oven, and the rosemary adds the perfect touch of freshness.

Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Carrots (approximately 2 large carrots)
• 1 1/2 cups Parsnips (approximately 3 parsnips)
• 3 cups Butternut Squash (approximately 1 butternut squash)
• 1 1/2 cups Sweet Potatoes (approximately 2 sweet potatoes)
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 1 ounce (1/4 stick) Butter
• 1 large sprig Rosemary

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. Peel the vegetables and cut them into uniform 2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.

3. Spread the vegetables on a sheet pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar evenly over the top. Stir to coat everything well.

4. Add small dollops of butter across the vegetables.

5. Lay the rosemary sprigs on top of the vegetables and butter.

6. Bake for 30–40 minutes.

7. Stir the vegetables, then continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until they’re tender.

6. Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This creamy, sweet, and buttery corn is one of those easy side dishes that instantly brightens up a meal. It comes together in just a few minutes on the stovetop, and the mix of honey, butter, and cream cheese makes every bite rich and comforting. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and goes perfectly with anything from grilled meats to weeknight chicken dinners.

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7. Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

These crispy, golden spiraled potatoes make such a fun and eye-catching side dish, and they’re surprisingly simple to throw together. The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft and tender, and the crosshatch cuts make them look extra special without any extra work. They’re a great way to add something a little different to your dinner plate and always get plenty of compliments.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Golden potatoes
• 5 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel the potatoes and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with kitchen towels.

2. Slice the potatoes into quarters or about half-inch thick pieces.

3. Place the potato slices on a cutting board and carefully make thin cuts on one side, using chopsticks on each side to avoid cutting all the way through.

4. Flip the potato slices over and cut diagonally on the other side to create a crosshatch pattern.

5. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and season them with salt.

6. Cook the potatoes in the air fryer at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn golden brown.

7. Serve the potatoes hot.

8. Air Fryer Broccolini

This quick and vibrant veggie side comes out beautifully crisp-tender with just a few simple ingredients. The air fryer gives the broccolini lightly charred edges while keeping everything fresh and bright, and a squeeze of lemon adds a nice pop at the end. It’s an effortless way to bring something wholesome and flavorful to your dinner table in minutes.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lbs. broccolini heads
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Dash of salt
• Dash of black pepper
• Lemon juice, optional

Instructions:

1. Rinse the broccolini and let it drain.

2. Remove the leaves from the stems.

3. Trim the ends of the stems.

4. In a medium bowl, toss the broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

5. Transfer the broccolini to the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. Once done, remove from the air fryer and drizzle with lemon juice, if desired.

7. Serve and enjoy!

9. Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

These garlicky mushrooms cook up irresistibly golden and flavorful, thanks to a quick toss in the air fryer. They develop a deliciously savory depth with hardly any effort, and the simple seasoning lets their natural earthiness shine. It’s an easy side that works beautifully with all kinds of dinners and adds a comforting, restaurant-style touch to your plate.

Servings: 2-3

Ingredients:

• 250g/ 9oz sliced button mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the sliced mushrooms, avocado oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley. Toss until the mushrooms are evenly coated with the seasonings.

2. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.

3. Once preheated, add the seasoned mushrooms to the air fryer basket, spreading them out in a single layer.

4. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

5. After cooking, remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.

6. Serve the garlic mushrooms immediately as an appetizer or side dish, or use them to top salads, pasta, or rice dishes.

10. Air Fryer Parmesan Truffle Fries

These crispy, indulgent fries bring a little gourmet flair to even the simplest dinner. They come out of the air fryer perfectly golden, then get tossed in Parmesan and truffle for a rich, savory finish that feels like something you’d order at a restaurant. It’s an easy way to elevate your meal with big flavor and very little effort.

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11. Air Fryer Roasted Carrots

These tender, lightly caramelized carrots make a simple and colorful side dish that works with just about any dinner. The air fryer gives them beautifully crisp edges while the herbs bring a cozy, savory flavor that feels homemade with almost no effort. It’s a quick, wholesome option that adds warmth and brightness to your plate.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bag of baby carrots
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380.
2. Add the olive oil and seasonings to a medium size bowl, and stir to mix together.
3. Add the carrots to the bowl, and toss to coat with the seasoning mixture.
4. Add carrots in a single layer to the air fryer basket, and air fry for 15-18 minutes, tossing the basket half way through cooking.

12. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

These crispy, golden fries bring a delicious mix of sweetness and crunch to any meal, and they’re incredibly easy to whip up. The air fryer helps them cook up light and crisp without much oil, while the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes shines through. They’re a fun, colorful addition to dinner and a great way to switch up your usual side dish routine.

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13. Air Fryer Sweetcorn

This quick and tasty side brings out the natural sweetness of fresh corn with almost no effort. The air fryer softens the kernels beautifully, then adds a little char for extra flavor, while the butter melts into every bite. It’s a simple but delicious option that adds a bright pop of color and freshness to your dinner plate.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.

2. Place each ear of corn on a piece of aluminum foil large enough to wrap it completely.

3. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to each ear of corn.

4. Evenly sprinkle salt over each ear of corn.

5. Tightly wrap each ear in aluminum foil.

6. Arrange the wrapped corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

7. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.

8. After 10 minutes, carefully unwrap the corn and return it to the air fryer basket.

9. Cook uncovered for an additional 3 minutes to develop a slight char and enhance the flavor.

10. Once done, remove the corn from the air fryer and serve hot.

14. Avocado Salad

This fresh and vibrant dish comes together in minutes and adds a bright, creamy boost to any meal. The avocado brings a rich, buttery texture while the simple seasonings keep everything light and refreshing. It’s a great way to add something cool and colorful to the table, especially when you want a side that feels effortless but still full of flavor.

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15. Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

These flavorful veggies bring a delicious mix of char, sweetness, and tang thanks to a simple balsamic marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. They’re colorful, hearty, and so easy to make, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to any dinner. It’s a great way to serve vegetables that feel a little more special without adding extra work to your meal.

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16. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

This rich and comforting side brings layers of tender potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce that feels like pure coziness on a plate. It’s one of those dishes that always gets rave reviews, thanks to its velvety texture and golden top. Perfect for weeknights or special dinners, it adds a warm, hearty touch to any meal.

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1.7 lbs Yukon Gold or similar potatoes, thinly sliced (about 0.8 kg)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half/milk)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tsp dried thyme leaves
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

3. Gradually whisk in the cream and cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 1–2 minutes. Add the Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper, and whisk until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding a little milk if needed.

4. Arrange the potato slices vertically in the prepared baking dish, then pour the sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.

5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.

6. Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

17. Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

These gorgeous, thinly sliced potatoes roast up with irresistibly crispy edges and a soft, tender center that feels like a fun twist on a classic baked potato. The signature fanned-out look makes them feel a little fancy, even though they’re surprisingly simple to make. They bring great texture and big visual appeal to the table, making dinner feel extra special with hardly any effort.

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18. Potato Fritters

These crispy little bites are wonderfully golden on the outside and soft and savory on the inside, making them such a satisfying addition to any meal. They come together quickly with just a few simple ingredients and cook up into the kind of comforting side everyone loves. It’s an easy way to add something warm, crunchy, and homemade to the dinner table.

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19. Golden Parmesan Herb Potato Bites

These bite-sized potatoes turn wonderfully crisp and flavorful with a mix of herbs and Parmesan that bakes right onto each piece. They make a fun, crowd-pleasing side that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With their golden edges and savory finish, they bring a tasty little crunch to any dinner spread.

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20. Herb & Vegetable Stuffing

This comforting, savory dish is packed with tender vegetables, fragrant herbs, and toasty bread cubes that soak up all the flavor as they bake. It’s warm, hearty, and full of texture, making it a delicious way to round out a cozy dinner. Even outside the holidays, it’s an easy side that brings a homemade, satisfying touch to the table.

Servings: 12-14

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of crusty bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread the bread cubes out on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool.

3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 10 minutes, until softened.

4. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, parsley, and rosemary.

6. Pour the vegetable broth over the mixture, stirring until the bread is evenly moistened.

7. Mix in the beaten eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

8. Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

10. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and crisp.

11. Take out of the oven and let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes before serving.

21. Greek Lemon Potatoes

These bright, citrusy potatoes bring a burst of fresh flavor to the table, thanks to a simple mix of lemon, herbs, and slow roasting that makes them tender on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside. They add a sunny, vibrant touch to dinner and feel special without requiring much effort. It’s an easy way to bring big flavor to your plate with just a handful of ingredients.

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22. Maple-Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

These sweet-and-savory bites are a total crowd-pleaser, with crispy bacon wrapped around tender Brussels sprouts and a glossy maple glaze that caramelizes as they cook. They’re simple to make but feel like something you’d find on a restaurant menu, bringing a fun mix of textures and flavors to the dinner table. It’s a delicious way to turn everyday veggies into something extra special.

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23. Baked Mac & Cheese

This warm, cheesy side dish brings all the cozy, comforting vibes to the table with its creamy interior and perfectly golden, bubbly top. It’s the kind of recipe that instantly makes any dinner feel a little homier, and it always gets plenty of love from both kids and adults. When you want something rich, satisfying, and totally irresistible, this one never disappoints.

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24. Orzo Salad

This fresh and versatile dish is light, colorful, and so easy to pull together, making it a great addition to just about any dinner. The tender orzo mixes with bright flavors and simple ingredients to create a side that feels both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a lovely option when you want something that balances heavier mains and adds a pop of texture to the table.

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25. Parmesan Garlic Potato Stacks

These little potato stacks bake up with crispy edges and soft, buttery centers, giving you all the best parts of roasted potatoes in one tidy bite. They look impressive coming out of the oven, but they’re incredibly simple to make and full of savory garlic and Parmesan flavor. It’s a fun, elegant side that brings great texture and a touch of flair to your dinner spread.

Servings: 12 stacks

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ lb russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, very thinly sliced (1.15 kg)
• ⅓ cup melted butter (or half butter + half olive oil) (75 g / 80 ml)
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (75 g)
• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder (4 g)
• ¾ tsp salt (4 g)
• ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper (2 g)
• Fresh or dried thyme, optional for garnish
• Non-stick spray or oil, for muffin tin

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.

2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with melted butter or olive oil, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

3. Stack the potato slices into each muffin cup, filling them to the top. They’ll shrink slightly as they bake.

4. Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are tender.

5. Let the stacks rest for 5 minutes, then carefully remove them from the muffin tin. Garnish with extra Parmesan, herbs, or salt if desired.

26. Pomme Duchesse

This elegant potato side brings a light, fluffy texture with beautifully piped swirls that turn golden and crisp in the oven. It looks fancy but comes together with simple, everyday ingredients, making it a lovely way to elevate a weeknight dinner or add something special to a holiday table. Each bite is buttery, smooth, and comforting, giving your meal a touch of classic French charm without any fuss.

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27. Smashed Potato Salad

This fun twist on a classic side brings together tender smashed potatoes with a creamy, flavorful dressing that feels both comforting and a little unexpected. It has that perfect mix of textures, with soft centers and lightly crisp edges, all coated in a sauce that ties everything together.

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28. 

This timeless side brings all the nostalgic, creamy goodness you expect, with tender potatoes, a smooth dressing, and just the right amount of crunch mixed in. It’s easy, reliable, and always a hit at both casual dinners and bigger gatherings. When you want something familiar, comforting, and crowd-friendly, this classic never lets you down.

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29. Spanish Patatas Bravas

These crispy, golden potatoes come to life with a bold, smoky sauce that adds just the right amount of heat and flavor. It’s a vibrant, tapas-style side that feels exciting and a little different from the usual options, making any dinner feel a bit more fun. With their crunchy edges and rich seasoning, they bring a lively kick to the table with very little effort.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 4 medium potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt to taste

For the Brava Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (sweet or hot)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garlic Aioli (Optional):

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

For the sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the peeled and cubed potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.

2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep-frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).

3. Carefully fry the potatoes in batches for 6–8 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt while still warm.

4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.

5. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.

6. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

7. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to coat everything. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

8. Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Whisk to combine until smooth.

9. Simmer the sauce for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

10. Add the red wine vinegar, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.

11. (Optional) Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture, or leave it slightly chunky for a rustic feel.

12. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, grated garlic, and lemon juice for the aioli.

13. Add salt to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.

14. Place the crispy fried potatoes on a serving plate.

15. Drizzle the brava sauce generously over the potatoes.

16. Add dollops of garlic aioli or serve it on the side for dipping.

17. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

30. Vegan Air Fryer Avocado Fries

These crispy avocado wedges bring a fun, plant-based twist to the dinner table with their crunchy coating and creamy, buttery center. They cook up beautifully in the air fryer and feel like a lighter, fresher take on classic fries. It’s an easy, flavorful side that adds something a little unexpected to your meal while still being simple enough for any night of the week.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Halve the avocados, remove the pits, and peel them. Slice each half into about 8 wedges, making sure they’re thick enough to hold their shape while cooking.

2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with soy milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt and pepper.

3. Coat each avocado slice in flour, shaking off any excess.

4. Dip the floured slices into the soy milk, making sure they’re fully covered.

5. Roll the slices in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.

6. Arrange the breaded avocado slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each. Work in batches if needed.

7. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.

8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

31. Vietnamese Loaded Fries

These bold, flavor-packed fries bring a fun street-food vibe to your dinner table with their mix of creamy garlic mayo, sweet hoisin, spicy sriracha, and crunchy peanuts. They’re crispy, colorful, and loaded with textures that make every bite exciting. It’s an easy way to add something vibrant and unexpected to your meal, especially when you want a side that feels a little extra.

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

For the Fries:

• 2 large russet potatoes
• 2 tbsp avocado oil (30 ml)
• Sea salt, to taste

For the Garlic Mayo:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise (60 ml)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp lime juice (2.5 ml)
• Pinch of salt

Toppings:

• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (30 ml)
• 1 tbsp sriracha (15 ml)
• ¼ cup garlic mayo (from above)
• 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped (16 g)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (4 g)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes into thin fries. For extra crispiness, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry. Toss with avocado oil and spread evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Season with sea salt immediately after baking.

2. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt, then set aside.

3. Warm hoisin and sriracha in a pan over medium heat for 15–30 seconds to loosen their consistency.

4. Place the hot fries on a serving plate or tray. Drizzle with garlic mayo, followed by hoisin and sriracha. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.

5. Serve immediately while hot and crisp for the best flavor and texture.

32. Korean Cucumber Salad

This refreshing, slightly spicy side comes together in minutes and adds a bright, crunchy burst of flavor to any meal. The cool cucumbers soak up a bold mix of soy, chili oil, garlic, and vinegar, giving you a delicious balance of heat, tang, and freshness. It’s an easy, vibrant option that brings a lively pop of texture and color to your dinner table with almost no effort.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• ½ lbs Cucumbers
• 1 tsp Salt
• 2 tsp Soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Chili Oil
• 1 tsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Sesame oil
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Rice vinegar
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Start by slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds or your desired shape.
2. Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle 1 tsp of salt over them. Set the bowl aside for 10 minutes.
3. After 10 minutes, strain the excess water from the cucumbers. This step helps to remove excess moisture from the cucumbers.
4. In a separate bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: 2 tsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp chili oil, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and 2 tsp rice vinegar.
5. Stir the dressing mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved.
6. Add the prepared dressing to the sliced cucumbers.
7. Toss the cucumbers with the dressing, ensuring they are evenly coated.
8. To finish, garnish the salad with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
9. Enjoy your Korean Style Cucumber Salad!

With so many delicious options to choose from, you’ll never be stuck wondering what to serve alongside dinner again. These flavorful sides bring variety, color, and plenty of personality to the table, turning even the simplest main dish into a complete and satisfying meal. Mix and match your favorites, try something new, and enjoy how easy it is to upgrade dinner with just a few extra ingredients and a little inspiration.