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    Home » Trending

    30 Delicious Sides You Can Make in Under 20 Minutes

    Published: Oct 22, 2025 by Kristen Wood · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Fast flavor meets unreal simplicity. These delicious sides you can make in under 20 minutes are turning everyday meals into must-see magic. Too quick, too tasty, too good to skip!

    Buttered Sautéed Leeks

    Sliced leeks being sautéed in a skillet with a blue spatula and pieces of garlic.
    Buttered Sautéed Leeks. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When you want something simple but a bit different, Buttered Sautéed Leeks hit the spot. They cook quickly and bring a mellow, savory taste to your plate. It’s an easy upgrade from basic vegetables.
    Get the Recipe: Buttered Sautéed Leeks

    Spinach and Arugula Salad

    Spinach and Arugula Salad. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Quick greens never disappoint when dinner needs balance. The Spinach and Arugula Salad keeps things crisp and simple, making it perfect for busy nights. It’s a light way to add freshness to heavier main dishes without taking up your time.
    Get the Recipe: Spinach and Arugula Salad

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    Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip

    Fundido dip with chips.
    Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

    Game-night snacks come together fast with Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip on the table. The creamy texture and quick prep make it a go-to when you need something hot in minutes. It’s bold, comforting, and always disappears first.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip

    Stewed Tomatoes

    An image of stewed tomatoes in a serving bowl.
    Stewed Tomatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    Dinner feels complete when Stewed Tomatoes are simmering on the side. They’re rich, hearty, and come together fast for those evenings when you want something warm but quick. A few minutes on the stove and you’ve got a solid side ready to go.
    Get the Recipe: Stewed Tomatoes

    Hogao (Colombian Tomato and Onion Sauce)

    Hogao (Colombian Tomato and Onion Sauce). Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Meals instantly gain more flavor when Hogao hits the plate. This quick Colombian sauce brings a bit of warmth and depth in minutes. It’s great for topping rice, beans, or anything that needs a fast flavor boost.
    Get the Recipe: Hogao (Colombian Tomato and Onion Sauce)

    Burrata with Tomatoes and Pesto

    Burrata with Tomatoes and Pesto. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    When time is short, Burrata with Tomatoes and Pesto is the kind of side that still feels put-together. The mix of creamy and bright flavors works with almost any main. It’s quick to assemble and looks impressive without extra effort.
    Get the Recipe: Burrata with Tomatoes and Pesto

    Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

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

    Quick heat brings big payoff with Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes. They pop with flavor in just a few minutes, adding color and texture to any plate. Perfect when you need a side that looks and tastes like more effort than it is.
    Get the Recipe: Scrumptious Blistered Tomatoes

    Caprese Stuffed Avocado

    Caprese Stuffed Avocado. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Midweek dinners feel easier with Caprese Stuffed Avocado on the menu. It’s fresh, filling, and comes together in minutes for a nice balance of creamy and tangy. It works great when you want something fast but still satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Caprese Stuffed Avocado

    Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes

    Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    A busy day calls for something simple like Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes. They cook up fast, bringing that roasted flavor without turning on the oven. Toss them beside pasta, meats, or grains, and dinner instantly feels more complete.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes

    Tomato Burrata Salad

    Tomato Burrata Salad. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    A quick side that feels restaurant-ready, Tomato Burrata Salad hits the mark every time. The creamy texture and juicy bite pair easily with nearly anything. It’s an easy win for lunches or dinners when time is short.
    Get the Recipe: Tomato Burrata Salad

    Sambal Dabu-Dabu (Raw Indonesian Sambal)

    Sambal Dabu-Dabu (Raw Indonesian Sambal). Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Meals get a quick punch of flavor with Sambal Dabu-Dabu. It’s a simple raw sauce that brightens up any dish instantly. A few spoonfuls bring energy and spice to your table in minutes.
    Get the Recipe: Sambal Dabu-Dabu (Raw Indonesian Sambal)

    Air Fryer Onion Rings

    Pile of onion rings on a white plate.
    Air Fryer Onion Rings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    Fast food vibes meet weeknight convenience with Air Fryer Onion Rings. They turn out crisp and golden in no time, skipping the grease but keeping the crunch. Perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or solo snacking.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Onion Rings

    Air Fryer Hush Puppies

    Air Fryer Hush Puppies. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Fast, crispy, and easy to love, Air Fryer Hush Puppies keep things light. They’re ready in minutes and pair well with fried or grilled dishes. No mess, no waiting—just quick bites of comfort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hush Puppies

    Louisiana Voodoo Fries

    Louisiana Voodoo Fries. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Quick sides don’t get more fun than Louisiana Voodoo Fries. They’re bold, saucy, and bring instant flavor energy to the table. Great for sharing or pairing with grilled mains when you’re short on time.
    Get the Recipe: Louisiana Voodoo Fries

    Quick Pickled Celery

    Quick Pickled Celery. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Short on time but want something fresh? Quick Pickled Celery adds crunch and tang in minutes. It’s a sharp, refreshing side that works great with rich or spicy foods.
    Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Celery

    Classic Fried Cabbage

    Classic Fried Cabbage. Photo credit: Hungry for Thai.

    When dinner needs something simple but hearty, Classic Fried Cabbage gets it done fast. It cooks down quickly while staying flavorful and balanced. It’s a handy go-to that fits with nearly any meal.
    Get the Recipe: Classic Fried Cabbage

    Spicy Pickles

    Spicy Pickles. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Fast sides don’t need to be plain, and Spicy Pickles prove it. They come together quickly for that extra kick your meal might need. Keep them handy to liven up sandwiches or grilled mains.
    Get the Recipe: Spicy Pickles

    Salt and Pepper Tofu

    An overhead image of salt and pepper tofu in a bowl with rice.
    Salt and Pepper Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    Busy nights call for something crisp and easy like Salt and Pepper Tofu. It’s flavorful, protein-packed, and ready before you know it. The texture alone makes it worth the short cooking time.
    Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Tofu

    Crispy Southern Buttermilk Onion Rings

    A pile of crispy fried onion rings rests on parchment paper, accompanied by a small bowl of red dipping sauce in the background.
    Crispy Southern Buttermilk Onion Rings. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

    Quick crunch and classic flavor come together in Crispy Southern Buttermilk Onion Rings. They cook fast and taste like a diner favorite without the deep fryer. Always a crowd-pleaser for busy nights.
    Get the Recipe: Crispy Southern Buttermilk Onion Rings

    Garlic Knots

    A pile of bread rolls on a plate.
    Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

    No side feels more comforting than Garlic Knots fresh out of the oven. Using premade dough keeps it fast and simple. They’re a quick win for pasta nights or casual dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

    Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans

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

    Convenience meets crunch with Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans. They’re ready fast and make it easy to get some greens on the table. Great for weeknights when you need something healthy in a hurry.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans

    Breaded Cauliflower

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

    When you want something crunchy but quick, Breaded Cauliflower works every time. It’s ready fast and pairs easily with sauces or mains. A solid go-to when you’re after a light side.
    Get the Recipe: Breaded Cauliflower

    Creamy Cajun Coleslaw

    Creamy Cajun Coleslaw. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Quick sides should have personality, and Creamy Cajun Coleslaw brings it. It’s cool, crunchy, and made in just a few minutes. Works great next to anything grilled or spicy.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Cajun Coleslaw

    Citrus Asparagus Couscous

    Citrus asparagus couscous in a white bowl next to an orange and lemons.
    Citrus Asparagus Couscous. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

    Weeknight dinners stay easy with Citrus Asparagus Couscous on the side. It’s fresh, light, and takes just minutes to pull together. Perfect when you want something that feels complete but not heavy.
    Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous

    Easy Shredded Tofu Tacos

    Easy Shredded Tofu Tacos. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Quick meals don’t get easier than Easy Shredded Tofu Tacos. They’re packed with texture and come together fast for busy nights. Works as a side or light main when time’s tight.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Shredded Tofu Tacos

    Cheesy Quinoa

    Cheesy quinoa in a white bowl.
    Cheesy Quinoa. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

    Quick comfort is easy to find in Cheesy Quinoa. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ready before you know it. A smart alternative when you’re tired of rice or pasta.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Quinoa

    The Best Vegan Caesar Salad

    The Best Vegan Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    Fast salads can still feel special, especially with The Best Vegan Caesar Salad. It’s crunchy, creamy, and done in minutes. Great for a light lunch or as a quick side to bigger meals.
    Get the Recipe: The Best Vegan Caesar Salad

    Spicy Chimichurri Chickpea Pasta Bowl

    Spicy Chimichurri Chickpea Pasta Bowl. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When you need something bold and quick, Spicy Chimichurri Chickpea Pasta Bowl fits the bill. It’s filling but easy to throw together in minutes. Ideal for weeknights when you want real flavor fast.
    Get the Recipe: Spicy Chimichurri Chickpea Pasta Bowl

    Tofu Thai Wrap

    Tofu Thai Wrap. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Lunch or dinner feels lighter with Tofu Thai Wrap on the menu. It’s quick to make and easy to eat on the go. Perfect for busy days when you still want something fresh.
    Get the Recipe: Tofu Thai Wrap

    BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Salad

    BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Salad. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Speed meets flavor with BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Salad. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but quick enough for any side. Works great when you need something ready in under 20 minutes.
    Get the Recipe: BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Salad

    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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