17 side dishes that dare to be different!

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Ready to add a little pizzazz to your dinner sides? Break the monotony with some seriously awesome recipes that’ll have you rethinking what a side dish can be. Forget the standard steamed veggies; these are flavors that pack a punch and textures that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Take your meal from mundane to memorable with these game-changing sides.

Creamy mashed yuca with melted ghee.
Creamy Mashed Yuca. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks

Buffalo cauliflower streaks with blue cheese coleslaw on a plate.
Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spice up your meal with these buffalo cauliflower steaks. They’ve got all the kick of buffalo flavor with a cool blue cheese coleslaw on top. Perfect for game days or any day you want to jazz up dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks

Air Fryer Crispy Asparagus Fries

Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries on a rack.
Air Fryer Crispy Asparagus Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Forget the usual sides and try these air fryer crispy asparagus fries. They’re crunchy, light, and served with a tangy lemon dijon sauce. A great pick when you’re craving a crunch without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crispy Asparagus Fries

Cheesy Quinoa

Cheesy quinoa in a white bowl.
Cheesy Quinoa. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Give quinoa a cheesy twist with this recipe. It’s a cozy, easy side that’s a hit with everyone. A smart way to get some more veggies in your meal, without anyone being the wiser.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Quinoa

Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts on a dark plate with vegetables surrounding it.
Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Combine bacon and Brussels sprouts for a sweet and salty treat. The maple syrup glaze is just the right touch. Great for hosting and impressing your guests with something different.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Creamy Mashed Yuca

Creamy mashed yuca with melted ghee.
Creamy Mashed Yuca. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For a change from the usual mashed potatoes, try this creamy mashed yuca. It’s smooth, and the texture is just right for shaking things up a bit.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Yuca

Air Fryer Green Bean Fries

Crispy air fryer green bean fries with yogurt dip on a plate.
Air Fryer Green Bean Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These green bean fries from the air fryer are a real game-changer. With a spicy yogurt dip, they offer a healthier twist that’s still packed with flavor. If you’re after an easy, different side, these are a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Fries

Air Fryer Crispy Cabbage

Purple cabbage steaks roasted until crispy in the air fryer on a plate.
Air Fryer Crispy Cabbage. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This air fryer recipe turns cabbage into something special. Seasoned with garlic and onion, it’s tender inside with crispy edges. Simple and fuss-free, it’s a great addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crispy Cabbage

Air Fryer Okra Fries

Spiced air fryer okra fries served with a yogurt dip on a plate with fresh parsley.
Air Fryer Okra Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ever tried okra fries from the air fryer? They turn out crispy and seasoned just right. A unique side that might make you see okra differently. Definitely worth a try for something new and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Okra Fries

Pesto Couscous

A bowl of pesto couscous with tomatoes and basil.
Pesto Couscous. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pesto couscous is quick, easy, and full of flavor. Ready in just 10 minutes, it pairs well with meat or seafood. A straightforward and appealing choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Couscous

Portobello Fries

Battered portobello mushroom fries on a plate garnished with parsley.
Portobello Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If you love mushrooms, these portobello fries are for you. Pan-fried in batter, they offer a new way to enjoy mushrooms. Great as a side or an appetizer, especially with your favorite dip.
Get the Recipe: Portobello Fries

Jicama Fries

Jicama fries on a plate with ketchup.
Jicama Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Jicama fries are a great alternative to regular potato fries. Baked to crispy perfection, they’ve got a unique taste. Easy and tasty, perfect for mixing things up.
Get the Recipe: Jicama Fries

Zucchini Fries

Vegan breaded zucchini fries with dipping sauce on a white plate.
Zucchini Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Baked zucchini fries are both healthy and tasty. They have a crunchy texture and are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy veggies. An ideal choice for a light and tasty side.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fries

Cauliflower Bacon Gratin

Cauliflower bacon gratin in a white baking dish with serving spoon.
Cauliflower Bacon Gratin. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mix it up with cauliflower bacon gratin. It’s a rich, hearty side that’s perfect for those nights you want something a bit more special. Cauliflower and bacon baked into a creamy gratin – it’s a combo that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Bacon Gratin

Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Fries

Purple sweet potato fries on a plate with dipping sauce.
Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Add some color to your plate with crispy purple sweet potato fries. Baked with herbs and avocado oil, they’re a tasty and eye-catching side. Ideal as a snack or paired with your favorite dip.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Fries

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Two crispy air fryer hasselback potatoes with chives, garlic and butter on a white plate.
Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Hasselback potatoes in the air fryer are a must-try. They’re crispy, buttery, and seasoned just right with garlic, salt, pepper, and chives. Versatile and easy to make, they go well with pretty much anything.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Utica Greens

Cast iron skillet with Utica greens and wooden handle serving spoon.
Utica Greens. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Dive into some Utica greens for a unique side. This mix of escarole, prosciutto, and pickled hot cherry peppers, topped with cheesy breadcrumbs, is a flavor-packed choice that complements a range of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens

Roasted Stuffed Tomatoes

Cheesy stuffed heirloom tomatoes with herb garnish.
Roasted Stuffed Tomatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Try these roasted stuffed tomatoes for a gourmet touch. Stuffed with goat cheese, creme fraiche, and thyme, and topped with garlic butter breadcrumbs, they’re a fantastic side for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Stuffed Tomatoes

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