Savory Sides: Elevate Your Meal with These Delicious Recipes

Introduction

When it comes to mealtime, the side dishes can often be overlooked. However, a great side dish can take a meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for something to complement your main course or to impress your dinner guests, these savory side dish recipes are sure to elevate your meal.

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish, but this recipe takes them to the next level with the addition of roasted garlic.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 head of garlic
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the top off of the head of garlic and drizzle with olive oil. Wrap in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft.
3. Cook the potatoes in a pot of boiling water until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
4. Add the roasted garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the pot and mash until smooth.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts can be a polarizing vegetable, but this recipe will win over even the most skeptical eaters with its sweet and tangy glaze.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and browned.
4. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat until reduced and thickened.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts and serve.

Creamy Parmesan Risotto

Risotto may seem intimidating, but this recipe is surprisingly easy and yields a deliciously creamy and cheesy side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, bring the broth to a simmer.
2. In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir until coated in the butter.
4. Add a ladleful of broth to the rice and stir until absorbed. Continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Conclusion

These savory side dish recipes are sure to impress your dinner guests and elevate your meal. From roasted garlic mashed potatoes to creamy Parmesan risotto, these dishes prove that side dishes can be just as delicious as the main course.