You Can Never Have Too Many Choices—21 Side Recipes to Prove It

ByMandy

Some meals need backup, and these 21 picks are not here to stay quiet on the sidelines. They’re the kind that steal attention without even trying. Picking one feels like being told to choose a favorite child—impossible and slightly unfair. Good thing no one’s making you choose just one.

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spicy twists are always exciting, and Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel proves that. It’s got that right mix of bold and creamy you need in a snack. Serve them for a quick bite, and everyone grabs seconds. Adding these to your table provides a crowd-pleasing option.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Key Lime Bars

A close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, and whipped topping, garnished with lime slices in the background.
Key Lime Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bright and tangy, Key Lime Bars bring something fresh to your dessert selection. They’re simple yet make a big impression in any spread. Putting them on the table means a sweet treat that cuts through heavier dishes. These are great for rounding out meals with something light.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

Buffalo Chicken Salad

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Some dishes bring heat, and Buffalo Chicken Salad is just the right balance. It’s bold enough to stand out and cool enough to appeal to everyone. Make it part of your sides, and it becomes a hit at any gathering. Pair it with other options for a robust mix.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Artichoke Pizza

A pizza with artichokes, tomatoes and spinach.
Artichoke Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza isn’t just for the main dish, and Artichoke Pizza is a prime example. It offers something different with a twist that’s easy to grab and enjoy. This one feels right for adding something unexpected. A sure way to shake up your options without much debate.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kebobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When something hearty but fresh is needed, Grilled Veggie Kebobs fit perfectly. They’re simple enough to please everyone and pair easily with everything else. These skewers bring a nice balance to your plate of options. They’ll always disappear faster than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized snacks are usually a win, and Bacon Wrapped Smokies never miss. They bring that salty, smoky flavor you can’t go wrong with. Toss them on your table, and they fit right into any occasion. You’ll be amazed at how quickly people go through them.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

It’s always nice to have something sweet that feels a little different, and Fruit Pizza stands out for that reason. It’s colorful, fresh, and a dessert people remember. Great for adding something lighter alongside richer dishes. Perfect if you need to refresh the table.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish with visible black pepper seasoning.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Comfort food takes a unique turn with Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese as part of the mix. It’s creamy and filling but with something extra that sets it apart. Great for balancing out heavier or traditional sides. Make it part of the rotation, and it’s bound to earn fans.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

Close-up of a marshmallow swirl cookie with a bite taken out, revealing its gooey interior and white filling. Other cookies are partially visible in the background.
Marshmallow Swirl Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cookies don’t need to be boring, and Marshmallow Swirl Cookies prove that well. They mix it up with something gooey and sweet everyone loves. If you want a dessert that disappears fast, this one does the trick. Definitely an addition that makes dessert interesting.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A mix of fresh and flavorful, Antipasto Salad packs plenty of variety in every bite. It’s a side that holds its own without feeling too heavy. This one’s a perfect option alongside rich mains. Good for keeping your meal balanced and your choices plenty.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sliders like BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw bring handheld fun to your options. They pack a bold punch and have all the crunch from the slaw. People love the mix of textures they offer. Keep them on the table if you’re hosting a crowd.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For comfort and true crowd appeal, Southern Mash really delivers. It’s smooth, rich, and everything you want in traditional sides. It works beautifully with everything else you serve. A classic way to keep your menu grounded while still having choices.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mixing unexpected combinations, Waldorf Salad brings some excitement to the table. It’s light, crisp, and cuts through other filling dishes. Putting it alongside other sides makes your choices stand out more. Everyone can find something to enjoy in it.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Handheld options shouldn’t be overlooked, and Mini Tacos prove why. They’re fun, flavorful, and a hit with all ages. Line them up as part of your choices, and they’ll be gone in no time. These are easy additions when you want something casual.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you need something hearty, Dense Bean Salad fills that spot perfectly. It’s packed and makes for a satisfying bite between lighter options. Adding it adds dimension to what’s on the table. Great for pairing with so many other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s nothing more crowd-pleasing than Pigs in a Blanket at any gathering. Bite-sized, they’re always the first to go. They fit into casual or fancier menus without issue. Make them part of your lineup for stress-free planning.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy and reliable, Ham and Cheese Sliders work for nearly any occasion. They’re handheld, making them simple to serve and enjoy. Put these on your table and see how quickly they disappear. They’re comfort food in just the right size.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Adding seafood always feels fresh, and Mango Shrimp Salad makes it exciting. It’s more than just salad—it changes up your usual options with vibrant flavors. Perfect for variety when your side choices need something different. A mix that feels special but still easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes a little something southern completes the table and Cheese Grits do just that. Creamy, cheesy, and perfect alongside bolder dishes. They add comfort and warmth to any meal without competing. A staple that deserves its spot among the choices.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A classic go-to, Caesar Salad ensures everyone has something familiar on the side. It’s crisp and simple but always pairs well with everything. Throw it in with richer dishes to keep things balanced. Sometimes, traditions stick around for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding something with a little sweetness and pop, Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa makes everyone happy. It works as a dip or a side, making it versatile. This option fits right into a spread without overshadowing other dishes. A choice that always feels just right.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

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