17 Side Ideas When You’ve Had Enough Heavy Meals
After a string of heavy meals, it’s nice to switch things up with something lighter. Think about adding more salads and soups to your meals. These 17 side ideas are not just easy to make but are also good for you, helping with digestion and keeping things light. Mixing in some whole grains with your veggies can also be a game-changer, keeping you full without the heaviness.
Wild Rice Casserole
Perfect for those seeking a comforting yet light meal option. It’s a wholesome choice that brings a delightful mix of flavors to your table, without leaving you feeling overloaded. Great for a cozy dinner or as a nutritious side that complements any main.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole
Yellow Lentil Dal
A staple that’s both comforting and packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for a lighter meal. Its rich flavors are a testament to its simplicity and versatility. Ideal for anyone looking to add a nourishing and satisfying dish to their meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal
Dauphinoise Potatoes
This dish has a luxurious yet not overly heavy side that adds a touch of sophistication to any meal. Its creamy texture and depth of flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to elevate a simple dinner.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes
7 Layer Salad
This salad is a vibrant and refreshing choice, offering a variety of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into your diet in a fun and tasty manner. Great for potlucks or as a colorful side dish that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Hasselback Potatoes
They bring a crispy exterior and tender interior to the table, making them a visually impressive and delicious side dish. Perfect for when you want to add a bit of flair to your meal with minimal effort. Ideal for pairing with a variety of mains.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes
Asparagus Casserole
Offers a delightful way to enjoy green vegetables in a comforting format. It’s light enough to serve during spring dinners yet satisfying as a side dish. A great option for incorporating more vegetables into your meals in a tasty and inviting way.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole
Fingerling Potatoes
These small, flavorful potatoes make for an easy and impressive side dish. Their unique shape and size allow them to cook up quickly, offering a deliciously buttery taste. Perfect for a hassle-free addition to any meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Get the Recipe: Fingerling Potatoes
Cauliflower Steaks
This dish offers a hearty and satisfying option for those looking to keep their meals light and plant-based. Its robust flavor profile makes it a fantastic main or side, capable of standing up to bold seasonings. Ideal for a creative and nutritious meal solution.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
A simple yet delightful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a beautiful glaze. It’s an easy way to add a pop of color and flavor to your meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for something light yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
Southern Mash
Brings comfort to the table with its creamy and smooth texture, making it a perfect side for any meal. It’s a simple yet beloved dish that pairs well with just about anything, ideal for those times when you’re craving something comforting yet straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Minestrone Soup
A hearty and veggie-packed option that’s perfect for a lighter meal. It offers a satisfying and nourishing choice with plenty of flavors, ideal for warming up on cooler days or when you’re looking for a meal that won’t weigh you down.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
These potatoes offer the best of both worlds: crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They’re a versatile side that adds a satisfying crunch to your meal, perfect for anyone looking to elevate their potato game with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
A vibrant side that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. It’s perfect for adding a sweet and spicy kick, making your dishes more exciting. Ideal for those who love to recreate their favorite restaurant flavors at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
Cilantro Lime Rice
This side dish is a refreshing addition to any meal, offering a light and flavorful base or accompaniment. It’s an excellent way to brighten up heavier dishes or to serve alongside your favorite proteins for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans
A flavorful and satisfying side that’s perfect for adding a bit of spice and substance to your meals. They’re a great way to make your home cooking feel like a restaurant experience, offering both comfort and a touch of heat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans
Crispy Shallots
Add a delightful crunch and sweetness to any dish, upgrading it from simple to special with minimal effort. They’re perfect for topping off salads, soups, or any main dish that could use a bit of texture and flavor enhancement.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots
Chili Potatoes
Offer a spicy and comforting option for those looking to add a bit of heat to their meals. They’re perfect for anyone who loves a little spice, providing a satisfying and flavorful side that pairs well with a variety of mains.
Get the Recipe: Chili Potatoes
