I Made 21 Sides That Didn’t Lead To A Dinnertime Negotiation
It’s hard to find anything that doesn’t spark complaints at dinner, but these 21 sides somehow pulled it off. They weren’t flashy or trying to steal the spotlight, but they got the job done without a single negotiation. Kids didn’t ask what it was, and adults didn’t push it around their plates. That’s already a win in most households.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Crunch meets freshness with Red Cabbage Coleslaw, balancing bold color and simplicity. It’s crisp, vibrant, and pairs well with nearly any dish. Nobody complains when this is on the table. It’s a go-to option for quick, hassle-free sides.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Scalloped Potatoes
Layers of soft slices make Scalloped Potatoes an easy win for big meals. Creaminess and texture combine in every bite without being overpowering. It’s a side that works well with hearty mains but doesn’t steal attention. No debates happen when this gets served.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes
Stuffed Peppers
Bold and versatile, Stuffed Peppers always hold their own at dinner. The mix inside is hearty without being heavy, and the presentation adds some variety to the table. Kids and adults both dig in without hesitation. It’s a side that solves the negotiation problem completely.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers
Vegetable Fritters
These are a wonderful way to enjoy vegetables without a hassle. Vegetable Fritters let you enjoy crisp bites filled with goodness. They work well on their own or paired with dips. A quick crowd-pleaser everyone grabs without arguments.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Packed with flavor, Mississippi Mud Potatoes bring a rich and layered texture to the table. These are filling without overpowering the meal. Perfect for balancing out main dishes. It’s never a struggle to serve these.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Cool and crunchy yet packed with spice, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad feels refreshing and bold at the same time. People love it for its kick that doesn’t feel too heavy. Great for pairing or eating alone. No need to convince anyone to grab some.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Dinner Rolls
Warm, soft Dinner Rolls make a meal feel complete. They’re simple, yet they add that extra something everyone grabs for. Perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying on their own. These always disappear quickly at the table.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Seven Layer Salad
Layers of fresh ingredients go into Seven Layer Salad to offer a mix of crunch and creaminess. It’s a dish that brings color and texture in every bite. Guests often come back for seconds because it feels balanced and fresh. This one fits nicely alongside heavier mains.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad
Italian Pasta with Salami
The heartiness of Italian Pasta with Salami makes it great when you need a comforting side. Salami mixed in gives it a savory twist without being overbearing. It’s a crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves pasta. Works just as well warm or cool.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami
Waldorf Salad
Crunch and sweetness come together perfectly in Waldorf Salad. It’s light yet makes an impression on the plate with bold textures. A nice change of pace from heavier sides, it pairs well with just about any meal. Don’t expect any leftovers with this one.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Gnocchi
Soft, pillowy Gnocchi makes for a warm and filling side. They offer a different style of carb that isn’t the usual rice or bread. Whether paired with sauce or not, they stand out on any dinner table. Often, people think of it as a main, but it works perfectly as a side.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi
Green Goddess Salad
A mix of greens and creamy toppings make Green Goddess Salad fresh yet indulgent. The balance between crunch and smooth dressing keeps it from being boring. It’s one of those salads that feels like a treat rather than a chore to eat. You’ll notice it goes fast with its great flavor combination.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad
Grilled Asparagus
Smoky and flavorful, Grilled Asparagus fits perfectly next to heavier dishes. It’s tender yet holds just enough bite to keep it interesting. There’s no argument when this hits the table; everyone nods approval. Simple yet always appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Easy Chicken Casserole
Nothing stops arguments at dinnertime like a hearty favorite. Easy Chicken Casserole packs a comforting combination that’s hard to resist. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings simplicity to the table. Perfect for busy evenings, it makes everyone happy without overcomplicating your day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole
Pico de Gallo
Fresh and flavorful combinations make this a crowd favorite. Pico de Gallo offers a bright and balanced option for a range of dishes. It pairs well with mains or as a standalone side. Simple, yet effective at turning a basic dinner into something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo
Wild Rice Casserole
Nutty and hearty, this fits into any mealtime spread with ease. Wild Rice Casserole provides a rich texture that complements just about any main course. A reliable option for filling up plates without fuss. It’s an easy addition that guarantees no complaints around the table.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole
Cobb Salad
Layers of fresh crunch and bold flavors win every time. Cobb Salad offers a mix of everything good on one plate. Balanced and versatile, it works for picky eaters and big appetites alike. It’s the answer when you’re looking for a side that brings variety to dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad
Mac and Cheese
Creamy and comforting, this is always a hit. Mac and Cheese brings a crowd-pleasing choice to any dinner table. It’s simple, classic, and hard to argue against. Whether served with meats or veggie mains, it’s always a dinner favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Jamaican Red Beans and Rice
A classic pairing that’s sure to go down smoothly at dinner. Jamaican Red Beans and Rice brings a rich and satisfying combination to any plate. Filling without being too heavy, it’s a step up from plain sides. Perfect when you need something reliable that everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Bold textures and a mix of flavors make this side hard to ignore. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies combines fresh elements to appeal to a range of tastes. It adds variety without taking away focus from the main dish. Ideal when you want a side that keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Southern Mash
Creamy and smooth, this side makes any meal feel complete. Southern Mash offers a comforting addition to a wide array of dishes. It’s hearty without stealing the spotlight from the main entree. Great for keeping everyone at the table happy without negotiation.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
