20 Healthy Sides To A Perfect Meal

Cabbage and mayonnaise are the main ingredients of coleslaw. Other vegetables such as carrots and onions are also added to this salad following the preference. 

Easy to prepare, coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy salad celebrated as a versatile side dish for a long time. This classic condiment can be served alongside barbecue, grilled meats and other picnic or outdoor foods. 

Many variations of coleslaw are available as of now. Whether your dish demands a creamy or tangy/spicy side, you can easily customize coleslaw to meet the demands. 

A proteinaceous salad to look after, egg salad can make a nutritious side. Hard-boiled eggs are the primary ingredient of this salad dish which can be accompanied by a list of crunchy vegetables. 

Being creamy and flavorful, egg salads can complement a variety of main courses. Egg salad is a classic accompaniment to sandwiches while grilled meats, burgers and pasta salads are less common. 

If you find the classic version of egg salad boring, you can bring a dramatic twist by adding your favorite spices, herbs or other additional ingredients. This side dish can be perfect for anyone who is looking for a protein boost in their diet. 

A meat lover's haven, skewers make a mouth-watering addition to any meal. Different types of meat such as chicken, beef, pork, lamb, or even vegetarian options like tofu or portobello mushrooms can be used to make this side dish. 

Meat skewers are very easy to prepare and are a healthy choice of side dish. Protein-rich and nutrient-dense, skewers can be a perfect side dish during BBQs, dinner parties or any festive gatherings. 

Antipasto salads typically include a mix of cured meats, cheeses, vegetables and condiments. So, antipasto salad can be a delightful and nutritious side dish with a variety of flavors and textures. 

Light and refreshing, this side dish can be a great option for warm weather or as a side dish for heartier meals. Seafood, pasta, pizzas and roasted poultry can be some of the perfect main courses that go well with antipasto salad. 

For making the salad more healthier, you can choose leaner cuts of meat and use cheese in moderation. And to keep it flavorful, remember not to overcomplicate your antipasto salad with too many ingredients or flavors.

Roasted balsamic mushrooms are low in calories and rich in dietary fibers and nutrients. The balsamic vinegar used in the dish is packed with antioxidants, crucial for our overall health. 

Grilled or roasted meats, seafood and vegetarian dishes like risotto can be some of the dishes you can pair this side dish with. For best texture and flavor, opt for fresh mushrooms and make sure the mushrooms are evenly coated with the balsamic glaze.

The seasoned succulent crab meat cakes can do wonders when paired with the right accompaniments. This variety of fishcakes is high in protein and low in calories and can be even air fried for maximum benefits. 

The crispy exterior and tender interior of this side dish can make it a perfect accompaniment for grilled steak, baked salmon, roasted chicken, pasta primavera and lamb chops. Moreover, crab cakes can be served as individual cakes or as a platter, making them an impressive addition to any meal.

Roasted carrots are a perfectly healthy vegetable side dish. Carrots are high in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A essential for good vision, immune function and skin health.

As carrots are roasted, they get caramelized and become perfectly sweet. Sweet and rich in flavor, roasted carrots can be a perfect side for dishes like grilled meats, roasted chicken or poultry, baked fish and comfort foods like burgers.

For obtaining pure crisp carrots, prevent overcrowding of carrots on the baking sheet. You may also add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Cornbread is the ultimate comfort food side dish! Its warmth, crumbleness and soaky nature make it a perfect accompaniment for soupy dishes. A perfect side candidate for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch or a comforting dinner, cornbread makes an ideal partner.

Crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside, cornbread can easily soak up chili, creamy soups like tomato, potato, or butternut squash and stews. Furthermore, smoked ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken and greens also taste amazing with a side of cornbread. 

Broccoli is a superfood in its own right? This cruciferous vegetable has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. And with some cheese added, you're adding a boost of protein and calcium to the mix.

This side dish is truly special because of its ability to balance flavors and textures. The rich and creamy cheese sauce provides a perfect contrast to the crunchy, slightly bitter broccoli florets.

Cheesy broccoli pairs well with classic comfort food like chicken pot pie or shepherd's pie. Other dishes perfect for this side include roasted meats, pan-seared fish, steaks and meatloafs.

Lemon rice is a popular side dish in many cuisines, mainly Indian and Middle Eastern. It's a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that's infused with the brightness of lemon juice. 

Being light, lemon juice is a delightful contrast to richer, heavier main courses. It is mainly served with curries, stews, and grilled meats(rice and meat duo can never go wrong!). Beyond its flavor, lemon rice is also celebrated for its simplicity and ease of preparation.

Roasted potatoes are the quintessential side dish. Beloved for their golden-brown, crispy exteriors and fluffy, tender insides, even simple seasoning can bring a sense of comfort to the dishes they accompany. 

The appeal of roasted potatoes lies in their simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved through the roasting process. Easy to prepare, they make a go-to side dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. 

For a healthier version, it's better to avoid deep frying of the potatoes. Also, as potatoes are high in calories, we should be careful about the portion sizes.

Asparagus holds a revered place among vegetables for good reason. Celebrated for its distinct flavor and nutritional profile, its roasted version carries a vibrant green color, tender texture and irresistible flavor.

The oven-roasting process enhances the natural sweetness and nuttiness of asparagus while creating a slightly crispy exterior. It can be an ideal side dish for individuals and households with minimal preparation time. 

Whether served alongside grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or a juicy steak, roasted asparagus makes every feast a memorable one!

Air-fried green beans make for a delightful and healthy side dish that's quick and easy to prepare. Air-fried green beans add color, texture and flavor to any meal, making them a popular choice during feasts. 

Air-fried green beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. These beans can also make a guilt-free (low-calorie) side dish as well. 

Air-fried green beans pair well with grilled meats, steaks and pasta. You can also enjoy them as a tasty snack or appetizer paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Charred corn salad is another vibrant and flavorful side dish made with fresh corn kernels that have been grilled or charred until slightly blackened. Charring adds a smoky, caramelized flavor to the salad and the resulting flavor complements grilled meats, such as steak, chicken, or fish very well.

The freshness of the salad helps to lighten up heavier dishes and adds a refreshing contrast to grilled proteins. Serving charred corn salad with other seasonal side dishes such as grilled vegetables, fresh fruit salad, or potato salad can be a perfect addition to summer meals. 

Sautéed spinach makes for a simple yet elegant side dish. In just a few minutes, you can transform fresh spinach into a delicious and nutritious side dish that is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or cherry tomatoes can also be cooked alongside spinach to prepare this side dish.

Sautéed spinach pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled chicken and fish to pasta and risotto. The increased versatility is due to Its mild flavor that allows it to complement rather than overpower the flavors of the main course.

A unique twist on the classic sautéed spinach, bok choy with ginger and garlic is another delightful leafy side dish. The side dish is perfect in itself as the crisp texture, mild flavor and subtle sweetness of bok choy pair perfectly with the bold and aromatic flavors of ginger and garlic.

This bok choy side dish can be perfect for serving alongside your favorite Asian-inspired main courses such as stir-fries, grilled tofu, or teriyaki salmon.

Quinoa is a complete protein diet. Also, it is high in fiber and the vegetables in quinoa salad provide an array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. 

Quinoa salad pairs well with a variety of main courses, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Some delicious options include grilled chicken or tofu, salmon or shrimp and veggie burgers or falafel. 

As quinoa salad can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, it makes a versatile side dish for any occasion.

Another salad on our list, this classic Italian dish celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil and rich balsamic glaze. As a side dish, Caprese salad adds refreshing colors and flavors to any main course. 

Caprese salad pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats and seafood to pasta and risotto. As it is on lighter side, it provides a welcome contrast to richer dishes.  

With its combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors and beautiful presentation, it's no wonder that Caprese salad remains a beloved favorite among food lovers around the world.

Creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish made with crisp cucumbers, creamy Greek yogurt, tangy vinegar and fragrant dill. Hydrating and nutrient-rich, this salad has many digestive benefits.

With its crisp texture, creamy dressing and vibrant flavors, creamy cucumber salad perfectly complements grilled chicken, grilled fish, pasta and sandwiches. To intensify the health benefits, you can add your favorite seeds such as roasted almonds or pecans to the salad.

Crispy baked tofu bites are a crunchy side dish. Unlike traditional deep-fried tofu, these baked tofu bites are light, crispy and baked to perfection making them a healthier alternative that's just as delicious.

Crispy baked tofu is best when served hot alongside your favorite main courses such as stir-fries, rice bowls, or salads. They are perfect for vegetarians and vegans looking for a tasty and satisfying side dish that's both healthy and satisfying.