17 Gluten-Free Sides That Know How to Work a Plate

Going gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety, and these 17 side dishes are here to prove it. From vibrant veggies to hearty grains and creative twists on classic favorites, each one brings something special to the table. Whether you're planning a big dinner or just need a reliable go-to, these gluten-free sides know how to round out a plate with style and taste.

Grilled Blackstone Acorn Squash

Take advantage of Fall's bountiful harvest and make some grilled acorn squash on your Blackstone! This new twist on an old autumn favorite gives it a smoky, charred, buttery flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Blackstone Acorn Squash

Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Easy Instant Pot Basmati Rice. Make perfect white rice every time in your Instant Pot in less than 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Roasted Pepper Cauliflower Mash

roasted red pepper cauliflower mash on a white plate — Roasted Pepper Cauliflower Mash. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

I'm not a huge fan of mashed potatoes at all. I'm actually not really a huge fan of white potatoes either unless they're deep-fried and topped with bacon and cheese. So when it comes to the holidays and friends and family ask for mashed potatoes, I usually whip up some cauliflower mashed potatoes. Today I decided to put a spin on my normal cauliflower mash recipe to make this Roasted Red Pepper Cauliflower Mash.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pepper Cauliflower Mash

Air Fryer Okra Fries

Air fryer okra is the BEST way to enjoy this often overlooked vegetable. The air fryer turns what many refer to as a “slimy” texture into crispy, crunchy okra fries. Seasoned simply but irresistibly, this recipe will have you falling in love with okra!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Okra Fries

Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant

Crispy cubed eggplant roasted in the air fryer on a plate with a serving spoon. — Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This simply seasoned air fryer eggplant comes out crispy and delicious. It’s an easy side dish everyone will absolutely love and goes with almost any main course.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant

Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes

This purple sweet potato recipe uses Stokes sweet potatoes that are smashed, drizzled with melted butter and herbs then roasted until super crispy. The perfect potato side dish with a stunning appearance!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes

Utica Greens

Hailing from upstate New York, Utica greens are a mouthwatering side dish starring escarole, prosciutto, pickled hot cherry peppers and finished with a cheesy breadcrumb topping. This side dish pairs wonderfully with everything from pizza to pasta and meat.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens

Baked Feta Pasta

This recipe is a perfect choice for pasta lovers. With its creamy and savory baked feta cheese, combined with tomatoes and aromatic herbs, it creates a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Honey Garlic

Roasted sweet potatoes with feta and walnuts. — Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Honey Garlic. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

This recipe offers a delicious side dish of roasted sweet potatoes flavored with honey, garlic, walnuts, and feta. It's a great choice for cyclical meal plans, providing a blend of nutrients and flavors. While not strictly due to the carbs in sweet potatoes, it's packed with health benefits, including vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Honey Garlic

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

This vibrant and versatile Chipotle Corn Salsa is a burst of sweet corn, tangy lemon and lime, and smoky roasted poblano pepper goodness. Whether you're looking for a zesty dip, a taco topping, or a salad enhancer, this salsa has got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons. — Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cilantro Lime Rice is one of those easy wins in the kitchen—simple, flavorful, and ready to go with just about anything. It’s perfect for rounding out weeknight dinners, family meals, or burrito bowls when you're pulling together a quick spread. You can make it ahead and reheat it without any trouble, which makes it great for planning ahead. You can also freeze it in portions, and it'll still taste great days—or even weeks—later.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Orange Fluff Salad

A blue bowl of orange fluff with mandarin orange and mini marshmallows. — Orange Fluff Salad. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This orange fluff is as light as air, and heaven on the tongue. Tastes just like an orange creamsicle with none of the sticky mess!
Get the Recipe: Orange Fluff Salad

Zesty Butter Beans

Zesty, creamy, and delicious butter beans can be enjoyed as is stew-style or served over rice or quinoa for a filling meal. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Butter Beans

Creamy Aubergine Curry

A super creamy Aubergine Curry packed with perfectly balanced flavors and a touch of spice. This filling and comforting eggplant curry is certain to satisfy your comfort food cravings! Vegan and gluten-free.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Aubergine Curry

10-Minute Garlic Bok Choy Recipe

This easy garlic bok choy recipe makes the perfect quick weeknight side dish when you're short on time. Bursting with flavor and naturally gluten-free and vegan.
Get the Recipe: 10-Minute Garlic Bok Choy Recipe

Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes

Easy one pot stewed potatoes make a delicious side dish that can be served alongside a large variety of main courses or enjoyed just as is for a bit of comfort food!
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes

Air Fryer Parsnips

Ready in just 15 minutes, Air Fryer Parsnips are your new favorite vegetable side dish! Sweet and soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, parsnips are a great healthy alternative to fries. Perfect with dinner or as a snack to share.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parsnips