Finding the perfect side dish to complement your main course can be a challenge, especially on busy weeknights. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! These 15 affordable and easy side dishes are not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making them perfect for any weeknight dinner. From classic vegetables to creative salads, these side dishes are sure to please the whole family without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into these tasty and budget-friendly options.
1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
These crispy and flavorful garlic roasted potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to any main dish. Simply toss diced potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden brown and tender.
2. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon
A simple and nutritious side, steamed broccoli with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is a quick and healthy addition to any meal. Just steam the broccoli until tender and drizzle with lemon juice for added flavor.
3. Classic Coleslaw
This classic coleslaw is a refreshing and budget-friendly side dish that’s perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners. Simply mix shredded cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing made from mayo, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
4. Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Swap out regular fries for these healthier oven-baked sweet potato fries. Just cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake until crispy and golden.
5. Simple Garden Salad
A simple garden salad is always a great option for a quick and easy side dish. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion with your favorite dressing for a fresh and healthy addition to any meal.
6. Garlic Green Beans
These garlic green beans are a flavorful and easy side dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Sauté fresh green beans with minced garlic and a splash of olive oil until tender-crisp.
7. Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a delicious and crispy side dish with this easy recipe. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden and tender.
8. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This light and refreshing cucumber and tomato salad is a perfect side dish for any meal. Simply toss together sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs with a simple vinaigrette.
9. Cheesy Garlic Bread
Who doesn’t love cheesy garlic bread? This easy side dish is perfect for pasta nights. Spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and shredded cheese on slices of bread, then bake until golden and bubbly.
10. Quinoa Pilaf
This nutritious quinoa pilaf is a great alternative to rice. Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then toss with sautéed onions, garlic, and your favorite herbs for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
11. Creamed Spinach
Rich and creamy, this creamed spinach is a comforting side dish that’s perfect for colder nights. Sauté spinach with a little butter and garlic, then stir in cream and Parmesan cheese until thick and creamy.
12. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and easy side dish. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden brown and tender.
13. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Bring a taste of Mexico to your dinner table with this easy Mexican street corn recipe. Grill corn on the cob, then spread with a mixture of mayo, lime juice, and chili powder, and sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese.
14. Rice Pilaf
This simple rice pilaf is a versatile and budget-friendly side dish. Cook rice with sautéed onions and garlic in chicken or vegetable broth for a flavorful and aromatic accompaniment to any meal.
15. Balsamic Glazed Carrots
These sweet and tangy balsamic glazed carrots are a delicious and easy side dish. Simply sauté baby carrots with a little butter, then stir in balsamic vinegar and honey until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
