From crisp salads to roasted green beans and cheesy casseroles, these veggie side dishes make any meal brighter, healthier and more flavorful.
1/37
Broccoli Parmesan Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
I began making this creamy side dish years ago as a way to get my kids to eat broccoli. They have since grown up but still request this satisfying casserole. It's truly a family favorite. —Barbara Uhl, Wesley Chapel, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 191 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 388mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 6g fiber), 11g protein.
2/37
Spiced Roasted Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
I started roasting veggies and serving them often with dinner. Now my children say, “Is it OK to finish the veggies?” Pinch me. —Joan Duckworth, Lee's Summit, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 93 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 228mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
3/37
Slow Cooker Cheesy Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
My family really likes this creamy, cheesy side dish—and it's so easy to make. Even those who usually don't eat much corn often ask for a second helping. —Mary Ann Truitt, Wichita, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 265 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 227mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
4/37
Smoky Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
The smoked Spanish paprika gives a simple side of roasted cauliflower extra depth. This is definitely a favorite. —Juliette Mulholland, Corvallis, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 58 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 254mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
5/37
Cauliflower Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Cauliflower in potato salad? You bet, along with carrots, olives and other yummy surprises. —Mike Schulz, Tawas City, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 61 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 375mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
6/37
Southwest Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother-in-law came up with this corn skillet dish one night for dinner. Everyone who tries it absolutely loves it! —Chandy Ward, Aumsville, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 104 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 256mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
7/37
Two-Tone Baked Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
One potato...two potato...this recipe is doubly wonderful as far as spud lovers are concerned. I have a reputation at home and at work for trying out new recipes. Everyone is glad I took a chance on this one. —Sherree Stahn, Central City, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed potato: 237 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 365mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein.
8/37
Grilled Street Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
Mexican food is my grandmother’s favorite. I wanted a perfect side for her legendary tacos, and this chile-lime grilled corn turned out to be just right. —Ashley Crainshaw, Shawnee, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn with about 1 tablespoon sour cream mixture: 143 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
9/37
Oven-Fried Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
Baked yellow squash is beautifully crispy. You don’t have to turn the pieces, but do keep an eye on them. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 137 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
10/37
Honey-Butter Peas and Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic combination of peas and carrots is enriched with a handful of flavor enhancers. Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld for maximum richness. —Theresa Kreyche, Tustin, California
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 106 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 293mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
11/37
Roasted Green Beans with Lemon & Walnuts
From the Recipe Creator:
I first tasted roasted green beans in a Chinese restaurant and fell in love with the texture and flavor. This is my Americanized version and it's always a big hit at our holiday table. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 119 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 229mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
12/37
Zucchini Panzanella Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I learned how to make panzanella from my friend's grandmother. Once I discovered how to make the perfect vinaigrette, it became a dish I crave during the summer. It's also a great way to use day-old bread and your garden's bounty of zucchini. —Felicity Wolf, Kansas City, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 152 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 301mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch.
13/37
Smoky Cauliflower Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
These healthy little treats work well as a side or as fun bite size appetizers. Roasting the cauliflower adds deep flavor and gives it an irresistible crunch. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 129 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 408mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
14/37
Gouda Mixed Potato Mash
From the Recipe Creator:
Everything's better with cheese, right? This cheesy two-potato mash is no exception. If you cube the cheese, you’ll discover delicious pockets of melted cheese throughout the dish. —Shelby Goddard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 178 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 189mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
15/37
Tortellini Bake
From the Recipe Creator:
One year I had so much summer squash, I was desperate for different ways to prepare it. That's when I came up with this recipe. Serve it as a side dish or on its own as a light meal. —Donald Roberts, Amherst, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 219 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 362mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
16/37
Dill Vegetable Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me this zesty dip recipe many years ago, and now I serve it at our annual holiday open house. To make it mobile, spoon a serving of the dip in the bottom of a small cup, then garnish with fresh veggies. —Karen Gardiner, Eutaw, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 107 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
17/37
Fresh Sugar Snap Pea Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
We found fresh sugar snap peas at our town's farmers market. They make a cheerful salad with a tangy dressing. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 86 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 201mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
18/37
Garlic Pepper Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
I've loved corn served with this simple seasoning since I was a child. It makes corn on the cob extra special. —Anna Minegar, Zolfo Springs, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn: 128 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 251mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
19/37
Roasted Vegetable Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
While my children were always very willing eaters, I came up with this recipe to get them to eat more veggies and enjoy it. The dip doesn't last long in our house. —Sarah Vasques, Milford, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons dip: 44 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 110mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
20/37
Calico Squash Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to try out different recipes for the squash I grow in my garden. It's fun to bring this beautiful casserole to potlucks because I know it'll go fast. Even the little ones like it. —Lucille Terry, Frankfort, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 439 calories, 34g fat (13g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 1055mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
21/37
Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Besides being tasty, these little tomato poppers are extra awesome because you can make them ahead of time. At parties, I often triple the recipe because they disappear fast. —Christi Martin, Elko, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed tomato: 25 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fat.
22/37
Twice-Baked Red Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Before my baby was born, I was in nesting mode and made lots of freezable recipes like these creamy red potatoes. The yogurt is a healthy swap for sour cream. —Valerie Cox, Secretary, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed potato half: 211 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 322mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
23/37
Edamame Corn Carrot Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this easy salad while brainstorming light, protein-filled recipes. My vegetarian and vegan friends are especially big fans. —Maiah Miller, Monterey, California
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 111 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 135mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
24/37
Slow-Cooker Broccoli Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This family-favorite side dish is quick to fix and full of flavor. Because it simmers in a slow cooker, it frees up my oven for other things. That's a tremendous help when I'm prepping a big meal at home. —Connie Slocum, Antioch, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 159 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 431mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
25/37
Cauliflower Gratin
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a lower-carb side dish that pairs well with pork, ham or beef. It's so creamy and delicious! If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle buttered bread crumbs over the top for the last five minutes in the oven. — Mary Zinchiak, Boardman, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 196 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 291mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
26/37
Garlic Broccoli
From the Recipe Creator:
My kids love broccoli, especially with lots of garlic. This recipe is wonderful for a special occasion, but it’s so quick that I usually fix it once a week in our home. Everyone gobbles it up. —Caramia Sommers, Oswego, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 53 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
27/37
Avocado Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
I was planning a party and thought it might be fun to try a different kind of avocado salsa. This recipe was an absolute success. Scoop it up with chips, spoon it over chicken or steak, or eat it on its own! —Susan Vandermeer, Ogden, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 82 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 85mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
28/37
Cucumber Salad with Sour Cream
From the Recipe Creator:
It’s been a tradition at our house to serve this dish with the other Hungarian specialties my mom learned to make from the women at church. It’s especially good during the summer when the cucumbers are fresh-picked from the garden. —Pamela Eaton, Monclova, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 62 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
29/37
Fresh Veggie Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
There's no need to bring confetti to your next snack-time gathering. Just carry in this colorful veggie pizza that's topped with a rainbow of crunchy vegetables! Guests usually don't even guess this delicious pizza is low-fat. —Brooke Wiley, Halifax, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 164 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 623mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
30/37
Pumpkin & Cauliflower Garlic Mash
From the Recipe Creator:
I wanted healthy alternatives to my family's favorite recipes. Pumpkin, cauliflower and thyme make an amazing dish. You'll never miss those plain old mashed potatoes. —Kari Wheaton, South Beloit, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 87 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 482mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
31/37
Green Bean Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Serve up those green beans in a whole new way–with a green bean salad recipe! The tangy flavors and crunch of these balsamic green beans complement any special meal or holiday potluck. —Megan Spencer, Farmington Hills, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 77 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 112mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
32/37
Triple Tomato Flatbread
From the Recipe Creator:
Tomatoes are the reason I have a vegetable garden, and I developed this recipe as a way to show off my garden's plum, sun-dried and cherry tomatoes. The dish is easy and will impress. —Rachel Kimbrow, Portland, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 235 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 476mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
33/37
Zucchini Dinner Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
Grated squash makes these golden dinner rolls wonderfully tender. Everybody's crazy for these, especially when they're warm from the oven. —Robert Keith, Rochester, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll: 90 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 133mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
34/37
Seven-Layer Mediterranean Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
I like traditional seven-layer Mexican dip, but I love Mediterranean ingredients even more. When I made this mashup, my husband wolfed it down. And he won’t even touch hummus or Greek olives on their own! —Bee Engelhart, Bloomfield Township, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without pita chips): 91 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 286mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
35/37
Homemade Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
I always judge a Tex-Mex restaurant by its guacamole. And although it's simple to prepare, it can go wrong oh, so easily. I've spent many years perfecting mine, to the point where I think it's better than most restaurants. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 90 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 78mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
36/37
Herbed Butternut Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
This is just one of many ways I prepare butternut squash for my two girls. It’s a winter staple in our house. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 108 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 205mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
37/37
Quinoa Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Toasting the grain before it simmers isn't essential, but it does add a pleasant nuttiness to the flavor of this vegan quinoa salad. Mix and match whatever fresh herbs and veggies you have on hand. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 227 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 449mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
Veggie Side Dishes FAQ
What are quick vegetable sides for weeknights?
Quick vegetable sides for weeknights do not require much chopping or cooking time, like slaws and salads that start with a bag of lettuce and prepared salad dressing, or sauteed spinach that wilts in minutes. An air fryer can produce crispy, roasted vegetables in a fraction of the time of a conventional oven, like these air-fryer Brussels sprouts. Roasting thin asparagus spears or halved cherry tomatoes at high heat draws out flavor with almost no prep.
How do I make vegetables more flavorful as side dishes?
The easiest way to make vegetables more flavorful as side dishes is by building layers of seasoning as they cook. Season them before cooking and then, finish them with something fresh or sharp, like herbs or lemon. Also, branch out beyond salt and pepper and try a new spice blend, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil or the best chili crisp. Batch-prep vinaigrettes or a flavored butter recipe for a fast finishing touch.
Can I prep veggie sides ahead of time?
Many vegetable sides can be prepped ahead to save time on busy days, whether fully assembled or partially prepared. Sturdy chopped salads with grains or beans hold up well in the fridge fully dressed. Dips and casseroles can be assembled in advance, then baked or spooned into bowls before serving. For delicate dishes, make and store the components separately, so you can toss or mix them together when you are ready.
