20 easy, healthy, and delicious vegetable side dishes to go with every entrée!
Do you struggle to find vegetables your whole family will enjoy? Say goodbye to the days of soggy broccoli or overly boiled Brussels. Instead, use bright colors, flavorful spices, and quick cooking methods to create fresh and delicious sides your entire family will be excited to eat.
Did you know that each vegetable has a different nutritional profile? Therefore, it’s important to include a wide variety in your diet. Studies show that consuming 2-3 cups of vegetables every day helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels, improves your immune system, and reduces the risk for heart disease. Plus, they’re a great source of fiber to keep you full throughout the day.
So, in order to make dinnertime easier, I decided to round up and share with you 20 of my family’s favorite foolproof side dishes. Made with delicious seasonings and quick cooking methods, these recipes are so good your kids won’t even realize they’re eating vegetables!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are fresh vegetables healthier than frozen?
Contrary to popular belief, frozen vegetables are just as healthy – if not more so than fresh. Use whatever versions to which you have access. However, if using frozen varieties, be sure to thaw them ahead of time or adjust cooking temperatures.
Can vegetables be prepped ahead of time?
These dishes are best served fresh. However, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Which vegetables are in-season?
Eating in-season vegetables is a great way to keep costs low! Here is a great guide to help you find the best vegetables near you all year round.
So, are you ready to get cooking? Take a look at 20 of my absolute favorite vegetable side dishes below to get planning tonight’s dinner.
Baked Rosemary Sweet Potato Fries
4.50 stars average
40minutes
These rosemary sweet potato fries are both easy to prepare and guaranteed to be loved by all. The ultimate nutritious side dish!
This quick and flavorful Chinese side dish is made with cucumbers which are lightly smashed then tossed with vinegar, sesame oil, salt and a pinch of sugar.
This three-ingredient side dish recipe is simple, delicious and packed with flavor. Naturally gluten free and vegan, this dish is ideal for entertaining.
A popular Chinese side dish, steamed Chinese broccoli with hoisin couldn't be easier to make at home. Naturally gluten-free, paleo, vegan, and whole 30.
A twist on a classic main dish, this vegetarian side dish of Lebanese Green Beans with Tomatoes is made with warm spices including cinnamon and allspice.
This easy, delicious side dish of carrots and green beans roasted in olive oil and za'atar is perfect for holiday entertaining or a simple weeknight dinner.
A healthy and easy side dish recipe, your whole family will love this cinnamon-spiced roasted acorn squash drizzled in an addictive tahini lemon sauce.
Liz Della Croce is the creator and author of The Lemon Bowl, a healthy food blog. Since 2010, Liz has been sharing delicious recipes that just so happen to be healthy. By using real ingredients with an emphasis on seasonality, Liz has built a growing audience of loyal readers who crave good food for their families.
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I LOVE all your recipes and look forward to cooking them all. You are truly amazing with your varieties. What to make first??? Happy Thanksgiving to you and you family and thank you for sharing.
Thank you! I always struggle with adding side dishes to my meals that aren’t “steamed in the bag” vegetables. I’ve started adding your side dishes when I do my menu planning. These recipes add a lot of variety of flavors!
I LOVE all your recipes and look forward to cooking them all. You are truly amazing with your varieties. What to make first??? Happy Thanksgiving to you and you family and thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much!!! You should make my Lebanese green beans first!
Thank you! I always struggle with adding side dishes to my meals that aren’t “steamed in the bag” vegetables. I’ve started adding your side dishes when I do my menu planning. These recipes add a lot of variety of flavors!
Oh that makes me so happy! Enjoy!