Side Dish Recipes

Brussels Sprouts Salad with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette

Exceptional flavor and versatility are the hallmarks of this vibrant salad, which makes a meal out of virtually any protein, from chicken and pork to salmon, shrimp, steak, and burgers. Plus, the prep is nearly effortless when using a package of pre-shredded Brussels sprouts! I make a lot of salads. Their color adds visual appeal…

Spanish-Style Chickpeas

Pantry staples come together lightening quick in this plant-based meal that’s equal parts flavorful, satisfying, and budget friendly!   Spanish-style chickpeas were inspired by a tapas dish I enjoyed while living in Spain many years ago, as well as a complimentary appetizer at Quahogs, a restaurant we’ve long enjoyed during summer visits to Stone Harbor,…

Everyday Kale Salad

A short list of fresh ingredients pairs with pantry staples to deliver a kaleidoscope of flavors, colors, and textural appeal while offering flexibility based on what you like and have on hand. A simple protein will create a complete meal. Don’t miss the linked suggestions for an endless supply of easy, mix-and-match meals.    If the thought…

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

A golden crust is the magic that happens when a clever baking method meets olive oil and Parmesan cheese in this versatile recipe that takes five minutes to prep.   When I think of St. Patrick ‘s Day, I think of Leprechauns, four leaf clovers, and wearing green. I also think back to elementary school…

Baked White Rice

Baked rice is easy, foolproof, and hands off. Plus, it works with white and brown rice – the only thing that changes is the cooking time.   I’ve practically given up cooking rice on the stovetop because baking it is easier. The oven method is also foolproof and hands off. As a bonus, a few…

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

Shredded Brussels sprouts pair with classic Caesar dressing for an easy-to-assemble salad that’s crisp, colorful, and loaded with flavor. Top with a favorite protein to transform the versatile side dish into a complete meal. Leftovers hold up for several days in the fridge!   I love a really good salad. A good salad will complement…

Green Beans Almondine

Nutty, buttery, and bright, this perfectly seasoned dish can be partially prepped in advance. Easy enough for a weeknight dinner but 100% worthy of a holiday meal. Truly so much more than the sum of its parts!    Somehow, I managed to graduate college before ever tasting the traditional green bean casserole. The classic holiday…

Easiest Steamed Edamame

The flavor-packed pop of perfectly cooked edamame is easy to achieve with a simple technique – in about 5 minutes. A crowd-pleasing appetizer, for sure, but the quick prep makes them a convenient side dish and snack as well.    A bag or two of edamame is a freezer standby in our house. Often enjoyed…

Cumin Lime Coleslaw

Thanks to its crisp texture, vibrant flavor and impressive versatility, this super simple side dish might just become a new favorite way to eat your veggies. Three cheers for Cumin Lime Coleslaw!   When I ask my family what they’d like for dinner, the answer may be pulled pork, spicy shrimp, or mac and cheese,…

Easy Baked Beans

Don’t love soupy baked beans that make everything else on your plate soggy? This easy, wholesome, flavor-packed recipe is for you!    My family never liked baked beans. Until this recipe.  Once I understood why they disliked the classic fare, and I reflected back on my own early opinions of baked beans, a recipe that everyone…

Steamed Corn on the Cob

For the best combination of ease and flavor when cooking corn on the cob, steam it! And if you’re tired of waiting for a stick of butter to travel around the table, I have a trick for that.    The seasonal return of corn on the cob is a big deal where I live. Farmers…

Zucchini Tuna Melts

A favorite seasonal vegetable takes inspiration from a classic sandwich in this wholesome, all-in-one meal enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Easy to make with one zucchini or many.    The annual glut of zucchini and my younger son Christian’s love of tuna melts led to a lightbulb moment last summer. How good would the…

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