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    Home » Trending

    Tired Of The Same Old Sides? Try These 27 Game-Changers

    Published: May 27, 2025 by Kristen Wood · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    When meals feel dull with the same old sides, it’s time to switch things up. Add fresh, bold ideas to bring new flavors to the table. These 27 game-changing options will make every bite unforgettable.

    Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

    Air Fryer Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Change up your potato routine! Air Fryer Baked Potatoes come out crispy on the outside and fluffy inside – better than oven-baked. A simple, no-hassle upgrade to a classic.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

    Rutabaga Fries

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

    Searching for a new take on fries? Rutabaga Fries bring a savory crunch without the carb overload. A great switch-up for anyone looking for something both unique and wholesome.
    Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries

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    Greek Green Salad

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

    Freshen up your side selection with Greek Green Salad, combining crisp veggies with tangy flavors to lighten up any meal. Refreshingly delicious and simple to toss together. Perfect for those who love crunch and flavor in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Greek Green Salad

    Homemade Ranch Dressing

    Ranch dressing in a glass bowl with sticks of veggies.
    Homemade Ranch Dressing. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Look for freshness in every bite with Homemade Ranch Dressing that livens up salads or veggies. Creamy and full of herbs, it’s leagues above store-bought versions. A must-try for dressing lovers.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Ranch Dressing

    Pesto Rice

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

    Tired of the same old side dishes? Add some excitement to mealtime with Pesto Rice that transforms rice into a herby, nutty surprise. It’s perfect for switching things up without much fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Pesto Rice

    Garlic Mashed Potatoes

    Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Mashed potatoes get an extra delicious touch with Garlic Mashed Potatoes that offer smoothness and flavor-packed comfort. Perfect if you’re tired of bland sides.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

    Fried Cheese Balls

    Keto Fried Cheese Balls with parsley.
    Fried Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Cheese lovers rejoice because Fried Cheese Balls turn snacking into an indulgent treat with their crispy outside and gooey center. Perfect when you want something different.
    Get the Recipe: Fried Cheese Balls

    Sesame Noodles

    Sesame noodles on a black plate.
    Sesame Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    Turn up the flavor with Sesame Noodles, combining just the right mix of nutty and bold for a change of pace. Simple and quick while still hitting all the right notes.
    Get the Recipe: Sesame Noodles

    Torshi

    Torshi. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Bring some tanginess to your sides with Torshi, offering a mix of pickled goodness. This Persian pickle makes a zesty addition that pairs well with almost anything. Unexpected, yet delightful in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Torshi

    Crack Green Beans

    Crack Green Beans. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Love green beans? Then switch it up with Crack Green Beans that bring a flavorful punch you didn’t know you needed for your sides. Not your average veggie dish!
    Get the Recipe: Crack Green Beans

    Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

    Jalapeño Poppers on a platter with a bowl of dipping sauce.
    Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Want a spicy kick for appetizers? Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon is there with a cheesy, tangy burst of flavor. Easy to make and sure to be a crowd favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

    Greek Chickpea Soup

    a bowl of greek chickpea soup garnished with dill on a blue and white linen with a gold spoon.
    Greek Chickpea Soup. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

    Warm up with a comforting bowl of Greek Chickpea Soup, a delightful change from regular soups. It blends hearty and fresh into one delicious meal companion. Ideal for soothing, flavorful days.
    Get the Recipe: Greek Chickpea Soup

    Creamy Cajun Coleslaw

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

    Slaw gets a spice twist with Creamy Cajun Coleslaw, which is rich and bold at the same time. Step away from plain slaw and surprise folks at the table.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Cajun Coleslaw

    Cheese Puffs Air Fryer

    Cheese Puffs in a bowl with fresh parsley.
    Cheese Puffs Air Fryer. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Need a crispy snack without the guilt? Cheese Puffs Air Fryer delivers a light, cheesy crunch with minimal effort. Perfect for when you want something different and easy to make.
    Get the Recipe: Cheese Puffs Air Fryer

    Garlic and Herb Stuffing

    Garlic and Herb Stuffing. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Tired of lackluster sides? Garlic and Herb Stuffing is hearty and packs a big punch of flavor, making any main dish shine brighter. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic and Herb Stuffing

    Pisto Manchego

    Pisto Manchego. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    If you're tired of basic veggie sides, Pisto Manchego is a Spanish-inspired medley that’s a chunky, delicious addition. Vibrant and full of flavor, it compliments any main dish seamlessly. A delightful break from the ordinary.
    Get the Recipe: Pisto Manchego

    Hibachi Noodles

    Hibachi Noodles. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    Skip plain noodles tonight! Hibachi Noodles deliver that savory, restaurant-style flavor, making them an easy go-to for any craving. A small effort with big flavor pay-off.
    Get the Recipe: Hibachi Noodles

    Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

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

    Looking for a guilt-free crunch? Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven makes veggies unexpectedly fun to eat with its irresistible texture. No frying necessary!
    Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven

    Chile Relleno Casserole

    Casserole dish with chile relleno casserole topped with sliced jalapenos.
    Chile Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Let’s give casseroles a bold twist with Chile Relleno Casserole, creating layers of spicy flavors. It’s the comfort you crave with a hint of excitement. A perfect fix for those craving something new.
    Get the Recipe: Chile Relleno Casserole

    Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes

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

    Turn tomatoes into a new favorite snack with Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes, which offers juicy sweetness with a simple crunch. Quick and surprisingly tasty, a definite must-try.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes

    Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower

    Baked Riced Cauliflower in a bowl with a spoon.
    Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

    Skip plain rice tonight with Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower that serves as a low-carb, flavorful alternative. It’s a perfect swap when you’re tired of traditional sides. Effortless and nutritious, all in one.
    Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Riced Cauliflower

    Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips

    Keto Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips on a dark napkin.
    Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Snacking gets a new level of fun with Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips that mix crispy and cheesy absolute perfection. Say goodbye to boring chips forever.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Cheese Bacon Nachos Chips

    Espinacas Con Garbanzos

    Espinacas Con Garbanzos. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Spice up your side options with Espinacas Con Garbanzos, combining hearty textures with rich flavors. It's a Spanish classic that gives your meal an exciting twist. A simple yet tasty way to enjoy chickpeas.
    Get the Recipe: Espinacas Con Garbanzos

    Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing

    A closeup is shown of Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with apples, grapes, pears, oranges, and pecans.
    Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

    Sweetness meets crunch with Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing, bringing a unique mix of fresh fruits and nuts to your plate. Great for those who crave something lighter.
    Get the Recipe: Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing

    Best Salsa

    Salsa in a container with chips around.
    Best Salsa. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Ready to add zing to your meals? The Best Salsa offers a fresh, bold flavor that elevates any dish it’s paired with. Fast to prepare, and great for dipping or topping.
    Get the Recipe: Best Salsa

    Harissa Chickpeas

    Harissa Chickpeas. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    A bold take on chickpeas, Harissa Chickpeas surprises with a spicy, rich flavor that’s anything but boring. A quick way to bring excitement back to mealtime.
    Get the Recipe: Harissa Chickpeas

    Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

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

    Need a fresh twist on greens? Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad offers a refreshing, grain-free alternative loaded with crunch. A vibrant choice to brighten your plate.
    Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh 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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