15 Cheap Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

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6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can elevate any meal. This creamy delight pairs well with meats, poultry, and even vegetarian dishes. The best part is that you can make it with just a few inexpensive ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender.
  2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant.
  3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  4. Add the garlic butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes.
  5. Mash until smooth, and serve warm.

7. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can use just about any vegetable you have on hand, making this a perfect dish for using up leftovers. Plus, roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, etc.)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
  4. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

8. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing cucumber salad is an excellent side dish during warmer months. It’s light, easy to prepare, and can be made in just a few minutes. This dish is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or any meal that needs a crisp contrast.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large cucumbers, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar (white, apple cider, or rice vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion, tossing to coat.
  3. Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving.

9. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a simple yet satisfying side dish that’s often a hit at summer gatherings. It requires minimal ingredients and preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy nights or casual meals.

Ingredients:

  • 4 ears of corn, husked
  • Butter, for serving
  • Salt, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Add the corn and boil for about 5-7 minutes, until tender.
  3. Remove the corn, let it cool slightly, and serve with butter and salt.

10. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a crunchy, tangy side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats and sandwiches. It’s a budget-friendly dish that can be made in large batches, making it perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss the dressing with the cabbage mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

11. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a hearty side dish that can be served with almost anything, especially during cookouts. They are nutritious, filling, and can be made from scratch or from canned beans for convenience.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans of beans (pinto or kidney)
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a baking dish, combine the beans, barbecue sauce, chopped onion, and brown sugar.
  3. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.

12. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is a protein-packed side dish that is also gluten-free. This colorful salad can be customized with whatever vegetables and herbs you have on hand, making it a versatile choice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup chopped vegetables (bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes)
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
  2. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Toss to combine and serve chilled or at room temperature.

13. Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are an elegant side dish that can impress guests without breaking the bank. They are easy to prepare and can be filled with various ingredients, but a spinach and cheese filling is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • 12 large mushrooms, stems removed
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture.
  4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is bubbly.

14. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a simple yet flavorful side dish that can complement a wide variety of main courses. It’s a great way to use pantry staples and can be made with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Add rice and stir for a few minutes until it’s lightly toasted.
  3. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper before serving.

15. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries and are packed with flavor. They make a great side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled chicken, and are easy to make at home.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into fries
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

Conclusion

Creating delicious and budget-friendly meals doesn’t need to be complicated. These 15 cheap side dishes can enhance any main course, making your dining experience more enjoyable without putting a strain on your wallet. From classic favorites like garlic mashed potatoes to fresh salads and roasted vegetables, there’s something here to suit every taste and occasion. So the next time you’re planning a meal, consider trying out one or more of these side dishes to complete your table.

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16. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats and sandwiches. It’s also a great way to add some vegetables to your meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, and toss well to combine.
  4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

17. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is an easy and affordable side that pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes and soups. It’s simple to prepare and a sure hit at any table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf of French bread
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
  3. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on both halves.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

18. Baked Beans

Baked beans are hearty and satisfying, making them an excellent side dish for barbecues or family dinners. They can be made from scratch or from canned beans for a quicker option.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans of navy beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon mustard

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a baking dish, combine the beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, onion, and mustard.
  3. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and heated through.

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