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    Home » Trending

    29 Fancy-Looking Sides That Are Surprisingly Easy

    Published: Feb 13, 2025 by Kristen Wood · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Looking for side dishes that impress without the hard work? These options look fancy but take little effort to make. Simple steps and basic ingredients create something that feels special.

    Best Sautéed Mushrooms

    Best Sautéed Mushrooms. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Get ready to enjoy Best Sautéed Mushrooms that are rich and savory. Ideal as a side or even a main topping. They’re the perfect addition to salads or steaks.
    Get the Recipe: Best Sautéed Mushrooms

    Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes

    Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Add a pop of color to your meal with Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes. These are sweet, tangy, and absolutely mouthwatering. They pair beautifully with your favorite proteins.
    Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes

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    Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

    Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    The Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes make for a simple yet flavorful side dish. They burst with flavor and add a bright touch to any meal. Try them as a topping for bruschetta or your favorite pasta.
    Get the Recipe: Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

    Farinata - Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread

    Farinata - Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Introduce a new dish with Farinata - Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread. This simple flatbread is both filling and versatile. Enjoy it as a snack or as a base for various toppings.
    Get the Recipe: Farinata - Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread

    Korean BBQ Baked Beans

    Korean BBQ Baked Beans. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Infuse your dinner with Korean BBQ Baked Beans that are rich and hearty. Perfect as a side or even on toast for breakfast. The barbecue flavors pair wonderfully with the comfort of baked beans.
    Get the Recipe: Korean BBQ Baked Beans

    Hibachi Fried Rice

    Hibachi Fried Rice. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Make your meals special with Hibachi Fried Rice, a quick and tasty option. It's great for using up leftover rice and veggies. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lunchbox treat.
    Get the Recipe: Hibachi Fried Rice

    Easy and Tasty Roasted Okra Recipe

    Easy and Tasty Roasted Okra Recipe. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Get ready for Easy and Tasty Roasted Okra Recipe that's crispy and satisfying. This simple method brings out okra's natural flavors. A great addition to any weekly meal plan.
    Get the Recipe: Easy and Tasty Roasted Okra Recipe

    Peperonata

    Peperonata. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Elevate your meals with Peperonata - a savory mix of peppers and tomatoes. This traditional Italian side brings brightness to any dish. Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy on its own.
    Get the Recipe: Peperonata

    Zesty Butter Beans

    Zesty Butter Beans. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Boost your menu with Zesty Butter Beans that pack a flavorful punch. These beans are a great pairing with meats or over rice. Quick to make and even quicker to disappear.
    Get the Recipe: Zesty Butter Beans

    Garlic and Herb Stuffing

    Garlic and Herb Stuffing. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Create a comforting dish with Garlic and Herb Stuffing, perfect for holiday tables. The aromatic herbs and garlic make it irresistible. It’s a classic that everyone loves.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic and Herb Stuffing

    Easy Slow Cooker Roasted Potatoes

    Easy Slow Cooker Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Let the Easy Slow Cooker Roasted Potatoes do the work while you relax. Perfectly seasoned and tender, these are a staple at any meal. A definite crowd-pleaser in any household.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Slow Cooker Roasted Potatoes

    Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

    Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Treat yourself to Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. A crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack for any gathering. These take mac and cheese to the next level.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

    Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw

    Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Refresh your palate with Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw that's crunchy and vibrant. Great as a side dish or topping for sandwiches. The sweet and tangy flavors are unforgettable.
    Get the Recipe: Quick Cabbage Apple Slaw

    Vegan Stuffing Recipe

    Vegan Stuffing Recipe. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    Savor every bite of this Vegan Stuffing Recipe, full of rich flavors. Perfect for a plant-based diet without compromising taste. Ideal for holidays or special dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing Recipe

    Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

    Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Add some flair with Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes, a colorful twist on a classic. These velvety potatoes are as tasty as they are beautiful. Perfect for special occasions.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

    Greek Green Salad

    Closeup side view shot of Prasini salad in a white dish.
    Greek Green Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

    Stay healthy with Greek Green Salad, full of fresh and crisp ingredients. Perfect as a light meal or side dish. The Mediterranean flavors make it a favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Greek Green Salad

    Air Fryer Eggplant

    Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Get that perfect texture with Air Fryer Eggplant, soft inside with a crisp outside. A great addition to any meal, whether as a side or a main. You won’t believe how easy it is.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

    Greek Lemon Potatoes

    Greek Lemon Garlic Potatoes in a black dish with lemon in the background.
    Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

    Brighten your plate with Greek Lemon Potatoes, zesty and flavorful. They are wonderfully tender with a hint of lemon. A perfect complement to any main dish.
    Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

    Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans

    Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Enjoy the convenience of Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans in just minutes. They retain their crunch and flavor beautifully. Perfect when you need a quick and healthy side.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans

    Garlic Fried Rice

    Garlic Fried Rice. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Make every meal better with Garlic Fried Rice packed with bold flavors. Ideal as a side or base for your favorite proteins. Quick to prepare and always a hit.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Fried Rice

    Oven Baked Sweet Potato Slices

    Oven Baked Sweet Potato Slices. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Discover the ease of Oven Baked Sweet Potato Slices, an effortless side dish. These slices are tender and slightly caramelized. Perfect for a nutritious and quick addition to any meal.
    Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Sweet Potato Slices

    Air Fryer Zucchini

    Air Fryer Zucchini. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Keep it crisp with Air Fryer Zucchini, a quick and healthy option. These zucchini slices are tender and slightly crunchy. Perfect for any meal or as a standalone snack.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini

    Secret-Ingredient Slow Cooker Black Beans

    Secret-Ingredient Slow Cooker Black Beans. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Delight in the deep flavors of Secret-Ingredient Slow Cooker Black Beans. These beans cook to perfection while you go about your day. A great side or even a main for vegetarian meals.
    Get the Recipe: Secret-Ingredient Slow Cooker Black Beans

    Creamy Miso Mayo Mashed Potatoes

    Creamy Miso Mayo Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Incorporate bold flavors with Creamy Miso Mayo Mashed Potatoes, a unique twist on a classic. The rich taste adds depth to your meal. Perfect for when you want to impress.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Miso Mayo Mashed Potatoes

    Pineapple Rice

    Pineapple Rice. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Add a tropical touch with Pineapple Rice, combining sweet and savory elements. This rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood. A fun way to switch up your rice routine.
    Get the Recipe: Pineapple Rice

    Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes

    Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Simplify dinner with Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes, full of comforting flavors. A great side or even a main course if you're in the mood for something hearty. Enjoy the minimal cleanup.
    Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes

    Air Fryer Parsnips

    Air Fryer Parsnips. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Try something new with Air Fryer Parsnips, healthy and satisfying. These root vegetables turn crispy and sweet. A delightful side for any main dish.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parsnips

    How to Make Easy Pickled Cabbage

    How to Make Easy Pickled Cabbage. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Learn the steps for How to Make Easy Pickled Cabbage, a tangy addition to any meal. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a side. It's quick to prepare and so versatile.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make Easy Pickled Cabbage

    Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

    Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Get healthy with Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash, light and nutritious. Great as a pasta substitute or a side dish. You'll love how easy it is to prepare.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

    About Kristen Wood

    Kristen Wood is a writer, photographer, world traveler and cookbook author. Her work has been featured in various publications both online and in print, including Elle, Forbes, NBC, Chicago Sun-Times, Martha Stewart, Food Drink Life, Arizona Highways Magazine, New York Daily News, and more. She is also a syndicated writer for The Associated Press.

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