12 Quick Sides for Weeknight Dinners

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A quick and tasty side dish perfect for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
5. Serve hot.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Sweet and savory, these carrots are a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the carrots and sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in honey and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender.
5. Serve immediately.

Lemon Herb Couscous

Light and flavorful, this couscous dish is a perfect accompaniment.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking method:

1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat.
3. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
4. Add lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley; mix well.
5. Serve warm.

Balsamic Roasted Vegetables

These tangy and sweet vegetables are a versatile side for any dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix vegetables with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes.
4. Serve hot.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Classic and comforting, these mashed potatoes are a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
2. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
3. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm.

Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds

A crunchy and flavorful green bean dish that pairs well with any entrée.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb green beans, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add green beans and sauté for 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in almonds and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Tomato Basil Salad

Fresh and vibrant, this salad is a refreshing side option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. Combine cherry tomatoes and basil in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss gently and serve.

Herb Roasted Potatoes

Crispy and flavorful, these potatoes are a quick and easy side.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking method:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.
4. Serve immediately.

Spinach and Feta Orzo

A Mediterranean-inspired side that's both light and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

Cooking method:

1. Boil water in a saucepan, add orzo, and cook until tender.
2. Drain and mix with spinach and feta.
3. Serve warm.

Sweet Potato Fries

These oven-baked fries are a healthier alternative to the classic.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt to taste

Cooking method:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, and salt.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
4. Serve hot.