Busy holidays call for side dishes that come together fast. These last-minute holiday sides are ready in 30 minutes or less and focus on simple preparation with a big payoff. From quick roasted vegetables to fresh, lighter salads, you can round out your holiday meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes get a nutty, aromatic upgrade with browned butter and fresh thyme. An easy side that feels extra special.
Get the recipe: Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes
Air Fryer Frozen Maple Brussels Sprouts
Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these Brussels sprouts get a sweet touch from maple syrup. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Maple Brussels Sprouts
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
This couscous salad brings together fresh veggies, herbs, and a tangy dressing for an easy-to-make dish. Simple, vibrant, and full of wholesome ingredients.
Get the recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Carrot Fries
Carrots get a crispy makeover in this baked fries recipe. They’re sweet, savory, and perfect for snacking or a fun side.
Get the recipe: Carrot Fries
Pearl Couscous Salad with Fresh Herbs
Pearl couscous is the star of this salad, tossed with fresh veggies and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s an easy way to add something colorful and tasty to your table.
Get the recipe: Pearl Couscous Salad with Fresh Herbs
Vegetarian Poutine
Vegetarian poutine is comfort food at its best, with crispy fries, rich gravy, and melty cheese curds. It’s a plant-based twist on a classic that everyone will enjoy.
Get the recipe: Vegetarian Poutine
Instant Pot Quinoa
Cooking quinoa doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a pressure cooker, you’ll have perfect, fluffy quinoa in minutes. It’s a game-changer for meal prep and quick, healthy meals.
Get the recipe: Instant Pot Quinoa
Instant Pot Lemon Rice
Want a zesty side dish that’s ready in no time? This lemon rice with orzo is your answer! It’s tangy, comforting, and pairs well with just about anything.
Get the recipe: Instant Pot Lemon Rice
Za’atar Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce
Roasted cauliflower coated in za’atar seasoning and drizzled with creamy tahini sauce makes a great side dish or snack. The bold spices pair perfectly with the rich, nutty sauce.
Get the recipe: Za’atar Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce
Pesto Couscous
This pesto couscous recipe is a quick and flavorful way to switch up your usual side dishes. Tossed with fresh herbs and a rich pesto, it pairs perfectly with grilled veggies, chicken, or fish.
Get the recipe: Pesto Couscous
Kale and Chicken Salad
This kale salad is loaded with tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a bright, herby cilantro dressing. It’s a wholesome meal that feels fresh and satisfying, perfect when you’re craving something outside the box on the holidays.
Get the recipe: Kale and Chicken Salad
Instant Pot Acini di Pepe
Ever heard of acini di pepe? This tiny pasta is a hidden gem in Italian cuisine. It’s versatile, fun to eat, and adds a unique texture to soups and salads.
Get the recipe: Instant Pot Acini di Pepe
Instant Pot Bulgur
Make holiday meals easy and wholesome with this simple Instant Pot bulgur recipe. It’s a quick side dish or base for your favorite veggies, beans, or protein.
Get the recipe: Instant Pot Bulgur
Honey Garlic Cauliflower
Sweet and savory honey garlic sauce coats crispy air-fried cauliflower for a snack or side dish that’s hard to resist. Quick to make and packed with flavor.
Get the recipe: Honey Garlic Cauliflower
Spicy Mac and Cheese
Level up your mac and cheese with a kick of spice for a bold twist on a comfort food classic. Creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of heat.
Get the recipe: Spicy Mac and Cheese
Broccoli Crunch Salad
This broccoli salad brings a satisfying crunch with a mix of fresh veggies, seeds, and a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect addition to your dinner table or meal prep rotation.
Get the recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Air Fryer Hasselback Sweet Potatoes
Crispy on the outside, tender inside, these Hasselback sweet potatoes are made in the air fryer for quick cooking. A sprinkle of your favorite seasonings makes them versatile enough for any meal.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Hasselback Sweet Potatoes
Roasted Green Beans
Green beans roast to a crispy, caramelized finish for a simple yet tasty side dish. It’s a classic addition to your holiday table or all year round.
Get the recipe: Roasted Green Beans
Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts get a sweet twist with a touch of brown sugar. A simple side dish that’s as addictive as it is easy to make.
Get the recipe: Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts
