19 Holiday Side Dishes That Bring Balance to the Meal

Holiday tables tend to lean heavy, which is why the sides matter more than people think. The right side dishes cut richness, add texture, and keep the meal feeling steady instead of overwhelming. These holiday sides bring contrast through freshness, smoke, crunch, and just enough comfort. With 19 options, this list helps the whole meal feel balanced from the first plate to the last.

Brussels sprouts and squash roasted with cayenne maple glaze until caramelized. — Cayenne Maple Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Squash. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Keto Green Bean Casserole

This casserole keeps the familiar comfort while cutting back on heaviness. It works well when the table needs something creamy without tipping too far.
Get the Recipe: Keto Green Bean Casserole

Roasted Green Beans

Crisp edges and simple seasoning keep these green beans clean and focused. We like them when richer mains need something straightforward alongside.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Green Beans

Domino Potatoes

Thinly sliced potatoes bake into crisp layers that feel indulgent but controlled. They add structure without stealing attention.
Get the Recipe: Domino Potatoes

Purple Cabbage and Pickled Mushroom Salad

Red cabbage salad on a plate with a fork. — Purple Cabbage and Pickled Mushroom Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Bright acidity and crunch cut straight through heavier dishes. This is the kind of side that resets the plate.
Get the Recipe: Purple Cabbage and Pickled Mushroom Salad

Roasted Butternut Squash

Soft texture and natural sweetness balance savory mains easily. It brings warmth without weighing the meal down.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash

Creamed Leeks

Gentle onion flavor and smooth sauce keep this side comforting but restrained. We serve it when mashed potatoes feel like too much.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Leeks

Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Grilled asparagus wrapped in bacon with charred edges and juicy centers. — Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Crisp asparagus adds freshness while bacon keeps it grounded. It bridges light and rich in a way that works across the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Smoked Potato Salad

Smoke gives this classic side depth without heaviness. It holds its own while still letting mains shine.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Potato Salad

Smoked Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn and smoke bring contrast to savory dishes. It adds brightness without needing extra sauce or garnish.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Corn on the Cob

Campfire Potatoes

These potatoes feel rustic and familiar without being overly rich. We like how they anchor the plate without dominating it.
Get the Recipe: Campfire Potatoes

Smoked Cabbage

Soft texture and smoke give cabbage surprising balance. It works especially well next to roasted or grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cabbage

BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Smoked Brussels sprouts glazed in BBQ sauce with crispy bacon pieces. — BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Sweet glaze and smoke add boldness, while Brussels sprouts keep things grounded. This side balances indulgence with structure.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Easy Grilled Corn Salad

Grilled corn salad with smoky kernels tossed in a fresh, simple mix. — Easy Grilled Corn Salad. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Fresh corn and light dressing keep the plate from feeling too heavy. It adds movement and contrast to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Corn Salad

Grilled Asparagus in Foil

Simple grilling keeps this side clean and flexible. We reach for it when the menu needs something easy and dependable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus in Foil

Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese

Creamy and comforting, this one fills gaps on the table. It works best when paired with sharper, brighter sides.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese

Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts

A plate of roasted carrots in various colors, topped with chopped hazelnuts and sprigs of fresh thyme. The dish is presented on a white plate. — Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sweet carrots and nutty crunch bring texture and restraint. This side adds interest without overpowering anything else.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts

Umami Smoked Mushrooms

Smoked mushrooms with deep umami flavor and browned edges. — Umami Smoked Mushrooms. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Deep savory flavor gives these mushrooms presence without weight. They balance rich meats especially well.
Get the Recipe: Umami Smoked Mushrooms

Cherry Chicken Salad Recipe (with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken)

Three lettuce leaves topped with chicken salad, grapes, and pecans on a white oval plate. — Cherry Chicken Salad Recipe (with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken). Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Light sweetness and creamy texture offer contrast on a heavy table. We use it when the meal needs something cooler and softer.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Chicken Salad Recipe (with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken)

Cayenne Maple Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Squash

Heat and sweetness play against each other cleanly. This side balances bold flavor with enough vegetable structure to keep things steady.
Get the Recipe: Cayenne Maple Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Squash