18 Delicious Non-Vegetable Side Dish Ideas to Try
Side dishes can often get overlooked, but they’re the secret weapon that can turn a good meal into a truly unforgettable one! I pulled together a list of my recipes from easy comfort foods like healthy mac & cheese to more unique flavors like tropical ceviche de mango. Here are 18 flavorful non-vegetable side dish ideas that will take your next meal to the next level.
Let’s get into it.
Protein-Based Sides
1. Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! These air fryer buffalo shrimp are about to become your new favorite side dish! Perfectly crispy and tossed in bold buffalo sauce, they’ve got just the right amount of heat. With a simple coating of gluten-free flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, these shrimp turn golden and crisp in the air fryer—no heavy oil required. Garnish them with fresh parsley and serve with ranch or blue cheese for dipping, and you’ve got a flavorful, satisfying side dish with a perfect balance of spice and crunch
2. Salt & Pepper Chicken Wings
When it comes to parties, chicken wings always steal the show, and these air fryer salt and pepper wings are no exception! These wings have a simple blend of sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder and offer a savory flavor that’s hard to resist. I love how the air fryer gives them a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside. These wings pair perfectly with pizza, making them a delicious addition to any casual get-together!
3. Smoked Salmon Dip
This smoked salmon dip is a creamy, delicious side inspired by my recent trip to Alaska. While visiting the charming town of Cordova, I learned about Copper River Salmon and its fascinating journey from the ocean to our plates.
This dip blends the rich flavors of smoked salmon with cream cheese, capers, red onion, and fresh chives, brightened with a squeeze of lemon juice. Its creamy texture makes it perfect for spreading on bagel chips or crackers. The dip has a rich, creamy texture that’s perfect for spreading on crackers or serving alongside your main course.
4. 3 Ingredient Chicken Nuggets
Who said nuggets are just for kids? These air fryer chicken nuggets are a fantastic option that can work as a side dish or even a main course when paired with fresh veggies or a salad. Made with just three simple ingredients—chicken, BBQ potato chips, and eggs—these nuggets offer a fun twist on a classic favorite!
5. Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
These honey garlic salmon bites bring a perfect mix of sweet and savory. Coated with honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and ginger powder, they pack a lot of flavor into every bite. The crispy panko breadcrumb coating and a hint of paprika give them the PERFECT texture when air-fried.
6. Tropical Ceviche de Mango
When I lived in Florida, we made this ceviche de mango recipe almost every week, especially with the freshest fish my husband would bring home from his fishing charter. This tropical ceviche de mango features tender snapper combined with juicy mango, crisp red onion, vibrant scallions, and fresh parsley, all tossed in a tangy lime juice and apple cider vinegar dressing. It’s a light and refreshing dish, perfect as a side for summer cookouts or any meal when you want to add a burst of tropical flavor. Plus, with plenty of vitamin C from the fresh ingredients, it’s not just delicious—it’s a healthy choice too!
Potato Based Sides
7. Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
The texture and flavor of these smashed potatoes are absolutely incredible! I’m convinced they’re simply unbeatable. By smashing the baby gold potatoes, you achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior that’s crispy at the edges and wonderfully creamy on the inside.
Once you try this recipe, I’m sure you’ll fall in love and never want to go back to regular potatoes. Trust me, they’re that good.
8. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite ways to create delicious fries! Just chop up 6 sweet potatoes into wedges, toss them in 1/4 cup of avocado oil (or spray with avocado oil), and season with thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Bake or air fry them until they reach that perfect crispiness. Not only are these fries a healthier option, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether you opt for a tangy Greek yogurt dip or a creamy dressing, these fries are sure to be a hit on your dinner table!
9. Loaded Potato Skins
Inspired by TGI Fridays, these loaded potato skins take comfort food to the next level! Crispy and cheesy, they start with small russet potatoes that are perfectly baked and brushed with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika for a flavorful kick. Once baked, they’re generously filled with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a sprinkle of green onions. A dollop of sour cream and a touch of cilantro add that final creamy and fresh touch, making these potato skins a delicious side dish or snack that everyone will love!
Rice & Grain-Based Sides
10. Persian Crispy Rice (Tahdig)
Tahdig, the Persian crispy rice, is a dish that holds a special place in Persian cuisine. It’s the golden, crunchy layer at the bottom of the rice that’s full of texture and flavor. In my family, it was always paired with Persian stews and plain yogurt, creating a simple yet satisfying combination that I still love to this day. Made by cooking basmati rice with saffron and oil, the crispy base forms as the rice cooks slowly, and a little melted butter can add extra richness if you like. This dish has been a favorite in my household for years and always brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
11. Baked Saffron Rice
Saffron Rice, a traditional baked rice dish made with layers of tender chicken, yogurt, and saffron, holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings and the rich flavors of our Persian heritage. It's a delicious baked rice dish made with layers of tender chicken, yogurt, and saffron, with a golden, crispy crust on the bottom.
12. Fluffy Rice
As a first-generation Persian-American, fluffy rice has been a staple at our dinner table almost every night. In Persian cuisine, it's common to enjoy a fragrant herbed stew served over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, making a reliable rice recipe essential. I grew up watching the women in my family prepare rice using various methods—rice cookers, instant pots, microwaves, and stovetops. All that experimentation led to the ultimate rice-making technique. My American friends were often amazed by how delicious our rice was and frequently praised my mom for making the best rice around!
13. Cauliflower Risotto
For a lighter alternative to traditional risotto, cauliflower risotto offers a creamy and delicious low-carb option. This dish achieves its rich texture through a blend of riced cauliflower, sautéed onions, garlic, and sliced mushrooms, combined with vegetable stock for added depth. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of flavor, while a drizzle of avocado oil enhances the overall richness. Seasoned with salt, oregano, and pepper, it’s finished off with a generous sprinkle of fresh or dried parsley and your choice of cheese. This flavorful side pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a good side dish for any meal.
Pasta & Comfort-Based Sides
14. Healthy Mac & Cheese
This healthier mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a nutritious touch. Instead of traditional cheese, this recipe features a creamy "cheese" sauce made from raw cashews, nutritional yeast, and flavorful spices, delivering that rich, indulgent taste. You’ll start by blending the cashews with garlic powder, turmeric, mustard, lemon juice, and starchy pasta cooking water to create the sauce. Toss it with your favorite gluten-free pasta, like shells, for a perfect combination. For a satisfying crunch, top it off with a mixture of gluten-free bread crumbs, olive oil, and salt before baking. This dish stands out among healthy side dishes while still giving you all the comfort of classic mac and cheese, making it a great option for those seeking delicious vegan recipes!
15. Tortellini Pasta Salad
This tortellini pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful side dish, perfect for summer cookouts or potlucks. Featuring a package of cheese tortellini, it’s seasoned with a touch of salt and tossed with diced red onion, colorful bell peppers, Persian cucumbers, and slices of salami for a savory kick. The salad is finished with a blend of Pecorino Romano cheese, adding a rich and creamy element. Drizzled with a little olive oil and a zesty dressing made from red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, this dish is not only packed with plenty of flavor but also makes for a great side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It can even serve as a light main dish on its own!
16. Jalapeño Poppers
If you’re a fan of a little heat, these jalapeño poppers are for you! Personally, I can’t get enough of them, and it’s all thanks to my mom! She absolutely loves jalapeño peppers, and her jalapeño poppers have been a family favorite for years. Growing up, these were a staple at our gatherings, and no party felt complete without a tray of her famous, cheesy, and spicy poppers. This recipe is inspired by her, and I’m excited to share it with you!
These delicious bites are filled with greek yogurt and cheddar cheese, topped with crumbled bacon, and air fried until golden brown!
Salads
17. Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta
This watermelon cucumber salad with feta is a refreshing side dish perfect for warm weather. The sweet watermelon, salty feta, and tangy lime juice come together to create a dish that’s light, hydrating, and full of flavor, enhanced by fresh herbs like mint. It’s a simple recipe that can be served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own. This easy recipe is ideal for any meal!
18. Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is always a hit, especially during the holiday season. This simple recipe allows you to combine your favorite fruits and toss them in a light dressing that adds a touch of sweetness without too much sugar. It’s the best way to enjoy a healthy and delicious simple side dish packed with vitamin C. For added crunch and a nutty flavor, consider including nuts, and don't forget to garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing finish.
Jazz's Recommended Products:
Our Place Wonder Oven
The Our Place Wonder Oven is a game-changer for efficiency and even cooking—read my full review here or buy it here!Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray
I love using Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray for a crisp, golden finish—read my review here or buy it here!Bowls:
With these 18 non-vegetable, delicious side dishes, you'll always have a variety of options to elevate your meals. These sides are a great way to bring bold flavors to the table while being made with simple ingredients.
Which of these easy side dishes are you trying first?
