• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Bonus - free keto meal plan
  • Home
  • About
  • Media
Lara Clevenger
  • Recipes
  • Dinner
  • Work With Me
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Dietitian Services
  • Camping
  • Media
×
Home » Trending

22 Side Dish Recipes That Bulldoze the Main Course Out of the Spotlight

Published: Jan 24, 2026 by Janelle This post may contain affiliate links - read my disclaimer for full details... Leave a Comment

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Yummly

These side dishes did not come to politely sit next to the entrée — they came to overthrow it. Picture sizzling pans, golden crispy edges, buttery gloss, melty cheese pulls, and bold flavors stacking higher with every scoop. Each bite is loud, indulgent, and wildly addictive, turning side plates into the most fought-over real estate at the table. When these dishes show up, the main course becomes a background character.

Asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone Asparagus on white plate.
Asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Making asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle is insanely easy to do! Crunchy delicious grilled asparagus is a healthy side dish. Minimal ingredients of garlic, salt, pepper and oil, this dish is done in no time at all!
Get the Recipe: Asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle

Air Fryer Radishes

Air Fryer Radishes with parsley, salt, and pepper in a white bowl with a spoon.
Air Fryer Radishes. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

These Air Fryer Radishes are incredibly easy to make and require only a few ingredients. They're a great low carb and low calorie side dish. They also spruce up your plate with color!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Radishes

Air Fryer Peppers and Onions

Air Fryer Peppers and Onions in an air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Peppers and Onions. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Air Fryer Peppers and Onions are so sweet and flavorful! They are incredibly easy to make and done in about 10 minutes! Cooking peppers and onions in the Air Fryer is so easy!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peppers and Onions

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash on a white plate with parsley, salt, and pepper.
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash is a delicious side dish and easy low carb recipe. It's a good low carb alternative to pasta and great for those following a keto or paleo diet! BONUS it's super easy to make and done in less than 20 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free)

Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free) on a white plate with parmesan cheese.
Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free). Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Making asparagus in the air fryer is incredibly quick and easy! In just 7 minutes you will have a crispy asparagus ready to enjoy! You can also add some grated parmesan cheese to give it tons of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parmesan Asparagus (Keto & Gluten Free)

Instant Pot Cauliflower

Instant Pot Cauliflower in a white bowl with a fork.
Instant Pot Cauliflower. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Instant Pot Cauliflower couldn't be easier to make! Just 1 minute under pressure gives you perfectly steamed cauliflower! Simply seasoned, this recipe is great for keto, paleo and gluten-free diets.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cauliflower

Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower

Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower in a white bowl with butter, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower is incredibly delicious! It is a great low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes. You'll love the smooth texture and the buttery garlic flavors of this cheesy cauliflower mash.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower

Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe

Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe in a white bowl with a spoon.
Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Making broccoli on the Blackstone Griddle is incredibly easy to do! Have deliciously tender broccoli ready in no time at all. Broccoli is a great keto Blackstone recipe that pairs easily with many proteins.
Get the Recipe: Easy Blackstone Broccoli Recipe

Blackstone Corn on the Cob

4 corn on the cob topped with butter and parlesy that were cooked on the Blackstone griddle.
Blackstone Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Blackstone Corn on the Cob is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish. Cook sweet and juicy corn on your Blackstone griddle in no time. Perfect for any occasion!
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Corn on the Cob

Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

Air fryer Brussel Sprouts in a white bowl with a spoon.
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Enjoy crispy and delicious brussel sprouts in only 10 minutes with this air fryer recipe! Needing only six ingredients, this side dish is sure to grace your weeknight menu over and over again. These brussel sprouts are nutrient-rich, high in fiber, and are gluten-free!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans

Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans with parsley, salt, and pepper.
Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Roasted potatoes and green beans make for a delicious and easy side dish! Complex carbs and a starch, all you need to do is add your favorite protein! These roasted vegetables are vegan and gluten-free!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans

Blackstone Green Beans

Blackstone Green Beans with pepper and salt in a white bowl with a spoon.
Blackstone Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Making green beans on the Blackstone Griddle is incredibly easy to do! These green beans have just 5 ingredients and are made in just 10 minutes! Not only do they taste delicious, but they're a great low carb side dish!
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Green Beans

Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Blackstone Brussel Spouts with bacon in a white bowl with a fork.
Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Make delicious Brussel sprouts with bacon on your Blackstone Griddle. This is a delicious side dish that the whole family will love!
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle on a white plate.
Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Make perfectly cooked zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle. Quick and easy, these make for a healthy side dish! These Blackstone zucchini are low in carbs and great for a keto or paleo diet!
Get the Recipe: Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Sauteed Cast Iron Brussels Sprouts with Bacon in a white bowl with red pepper flakes, a spoon, and a fork.
Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Sautéed Cast Iron Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a quick and easy side dish that's full of flavor! With only 5 ingredients and a cast iron skillet, clean up and prep is a breeze!
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus on foil with parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Quick and easy roasted garlic parmesan asparagus. Simply seasoned with avocado oil, sea salt, pepper and parmesan cheese.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

Irish Nachos

Potato rounds topped with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
Irish Nachos. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Crisp potato rounds topped with crispy bacon and gooey cheese. Your new favorite appetizer or side dish: so addicting!
Get the Recipe: Irish Nachos

Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans

A slow cooker filled with Boston baked beans ready to be served.
Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Enjoy classic Boston Baked Beans cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. This recipe offers a rich, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness, ideal for a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans

Crock Pot Pinto Beans (Vegetarian)

A bowl of crock pot pinto beans with a rich, hearty texture.
Crock Pot Pinto Beans (Vegetarian). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This Crock Pot Pinto Beans recipe is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish that cooks slowly for a rich taste. It’s perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Pinto Beans (Vegetarian)

Slow Cooker Asparagus

A slow cooker filled with fresh asparagus and seasonings.
Slow Cooker Asparagus. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This Slow Cooker Asparagus recipe provides an easy way to cook tender, flavorful asparagus with minimal effort. It’s a great side dish for any meal or holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Asparagus

Delicious Sautéed Asparagus and Mushrooms Recipe

Sauteed asparagus and mushrooms on a white plate.
Delicious Sautéed Asparagus and Mushrooms Recipe. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

This simple asparagus and mushrooms recipe combines fresh asparagus with Baby Bella mushrooms seasoned with delicious Asian seasonings.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Sautéed Asparagus and Mushrooms Recipe

Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style

Stir-fried cauliflower with mushrooms, dried red chilies, and green onions on a white plate.
Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Stir fry cauliflower is a quick and easy recipe with many flavors. It is a balance of sweet flavor, spiciness, and crunch.
Get the Recipe: Simple Stir Fry Cauliflower Recipe: Sichuan Style

More Trending

  • A white bowl filled with cooked cauliflower florets, seasoned with black pepper, sits on a light surface next to a white cloth.
    19 Side Dish Recipes That Are Juicy, Flavor-Packed, and Impossible to Ignore
  • A close-up of a spoon holding pasta with ground meat, red bell peppers, tomato sauce, and sprinkled grated cheese.
    21 Pork Recipes So Juicy, Crispy, and Over-the-Top They Cause Fork Fights
  • Two granola bars partially wrapped in parchment paper are stacked on a beige surface.
    23 Strawberry Recipes That Hug, Kiss, and Hijack Your Taste Buds
  • A cheeseburger with spinach, bacon, melted cheddar, sauce, and guacamole on a bun, served with green beans on a black plate.
    24 Grilled and Smoked Recipes So Juicy, Crispy, and Flavor-Packed They Deserve a Standing Ovation

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Hi, I’m Lara, a Registered Dietitian and Personal Trainer with a passion for food and travel.

Read more

Recent posts

  • A baked casserole topped with melted cheese, breadcrumbs, and sliced green onions in a white dish, resting on a blue patterned cloth.
    19 Cheese Recipes So Gooey, Crispy, and Over-the-Top They Should Be Illegal
  • A whole roasted chicken garnished with rosemary and surrounded by roasted vegetables on a white platter, with a glass of wine and side dishes nearby.
    17 Irresistible Sheet Pan Recipes for Big Flavor and Easy Cleanup
  • A stacked roast beef sandwich with greens and pine nuts on rustic bread, placed on a wooden surface.
    17 Dinners That Make You Look Like You’ve Got Your Life Together (Even If You Don’t)
  • A close-up of sliced spinach and cream cheese roulades with smoked salmon and black caviar, arranged on a wooden board.
    18 Salmon Recipes That Make Dinner Feel Like a Five Star Splash
  • 19 Mushroom Dishes So Good, You’ll Start Calling Yourself a ‘Fun-Gourmet’
  • creamy cheese ranch chicken on a bowl with spoon
    23 Slow Cooker Recipes That Do the Cooking While You Do Absolutely Nothing
free keto meal plan image

Footer

↑ back to top

  • Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Disclaimer
  • Services

The information presented on this web site is not intended to take the place of your personal physician’s advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Discuss this information with your own physician or healthcare provider to determine what is right for you. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. We cannot and do not give you medical advice. See my privacy policy.

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • TikTok

Copyright © 2025 Lara Clevenger