Heavy holiday feasts need side dishes that actually wake up the plate. We pulled together 19 recipes that hit with big flavor, crisp textures, and bright finishes that cut through all that richness. Each one is built for busy kitchens where timing matters, and space is tight. Check out the sides that keep a packed holiday table from sinking under its own weight.
Domino Potatoes
High oven heat crisps the thin layers while the centers stay soft. The cut keeps cooking even for clean, sharp edges.
Get the Recipe: Domino Potatoes
Smoked Potato Salad
Low smoke adds depth without drying the potatoes. We chill it fast so the texture stays firm and creamy.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Potato Salad
BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Smoke softens the sprouts before the glaze turns sticky and bold. Bacon renders through, giving each bite crisp heat.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Smoked Corn on the Cob
Slow smoke sweetens the kernels and adds a light char. The steady heat keeps every cob juicy.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Corn on the Cob
Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Foil traps steam so the asparagus stays tender while the grill adds char. The method keeps timing simple and predictable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Roasted Butternut Squash
Hot oven air caramelizes the edges while keeping the interior soft. Even roasting brings out clean, natural sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash
Campfire Potatoes
Foil packets trap heat, giving the potatoes tender centers and crisp edges. The hands-off cook fits any grill or fire setup.
Get the Recipe: Campfire Potatoes
Umami Smoked Mushrooms
Smoke concentrates the mushrooms’ savory flavor while keeping them juicy. We keep the heat low so they don’t dry out.
Get the Recipe: Umami Smoked Mushrooms
Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
Cast iron holds steady heat, melting everything into a smooth, rich sauce. The pot keeps the noodles perfectly coated.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
Smoked Cabbage
Slow smoke softens the cabbage into tender wedges with crisp edges. The method adds depth without losing moisture.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cabbage
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
The grill renders the bacon crisp while the asparagus stays bright and tender. Even heat keeps every spear cooking evenly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Easy Grilled Corn Salad
Fire-kissed corn brings char and sweetness to the bowl. We cut it warm so the juices mix straight into the dressing.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Corn Salad
Roasted Green Beans
High heat blisters the beans for a crisp bite and deep flavor. The quick roast keeps timing tight.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Green Beans
Creamed Leeks
Gentle heat softens the leeks while the sauce reduces smooth. The pan keeps the texture silky without overcooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Leeks
Tomato and Smashed Cucumber Salad
Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes absorb the dressing fast. The smash keeps the texture refreshing and easy to eat.
Get the Recipe: Tomato and Smashed Cucumber Salad
Steakhouse Keto Creamed Spinach
Slow simmering thickens the cream while the spinach stays velvety. We keep the heat low to avoid splitting.
Get the Recipe: Steakhouse Keto Creamed Spinach
Rajas en Crema
Charred peppers simmer in cream until smoky and tender. The low cook keeps the sauce thick and balanced.
Get the Recipe: Rajas en Crema
Double Smoked Chicken Mac and Cheese
Smoked chicken deepens the flavor while the sauce turns glossy and rich. A second smoke sets the top without drying the pasta.
Get the Recipe: Double Smoked Chicken Mac and Cheese
Keto Green Bean Casserole
A hot bake crisps the topping while the beans stay tender. The skillet keeps the sauce thick and evenly reduced.
Get the Recipe: Keto Green Bean Casserole
