Savory Sides: Delicious Recipes to Complement Any Meal
Introduction
When it comes to mealtime, the main dish often gets all the attention. However, a great side dish can make all the difference in taking a meal from good to great. Whether you’re looking for something to accompany a hearty roast, or a light and refreshing salad to serve alongside grilled chicken, there are countless delicious options to choose from. Here are some of our favorite savory sides that are sure to complement any meal.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables is a simple and delicious way to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor. Simply toss your favorite veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. Some of our favorites include:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts may have a bad reputation, but when roasted to perfection, they’re a delicious and nutritious side dish. Cut your sprouts in half, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in a 400-degree oven for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and browned.
Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots are a sweet and savory side that pairs well with just about any main dish. Cut your carrots into sticks, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in a 400-degree oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Grain Salads
Grain salads are a great way to add some healthy whole grains to your meal while also incorporating fresh veggies and herbs. They’re also incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are some of our favorite grain salad recipes:
Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This quinoa salad is packed with flavor and nutrition, thanks to a mix of roasted veggies, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese. Cook your quinoa according to package instructions, then toss with roasted veggies (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant), chopped fresh herbs (like parsley and mint), crumbled feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
Farro Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Farro is a hearty and nutty grain that pairs well with sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. Cook your farro according to package instructions, then toss with halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, and a simple dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and honey.
Savory Breads
Bread is always a welcome addition to any meal, but savory breads take things to the next level. From cheesy garlic bread to herb-infused flatbreads, there are endless options to choose from. Here are some of our favorites:
Cheesy Garlic Bread
This classic side dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Simply slice a loaf of French bread in half lengthwise, spread with garlic butter, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake in a 400-degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Herb Flatbread
This simple flatbread is infused with fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme. Simply mix together flour, salt, yeast, olive oil, and water to form a dough, then knead in chopped herbs. Roll out the dough into a thin circle, brush with olive oil, and bake in a 450-degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Conclusion
With so many delicious savory sides to choose from, there’s no reason to settle for a boring meal. Whether you’re in the mood for roasted veggies, a hearty grain salad, or a cheesy bread, these recipes are sure to complement any main dish and leave your taste buds satisfied.