13 Festive Sides That Cook Quickly and Pair With Anything

Holiday meals feel easier when the side dishes come together quickly and still look special on the table. Fast-cooking vegetables that can be roasted or sautéed make it possible to serve flavorful options without spending hours in the kitchen. These simple sides pair well with a wide range of main dishes, from roasted meats to lighter meals. With minimal prep and short cook times, they help keep the focus on gathering and enjoying the meal.

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Honey Roasted Carrots

Honey-roasted carrots offer a delightful balance of natural sweetness and savory flavor, making them an easy yet elegant side dish for any meal. The honey helps to caramelize the carrots as they roast, enhancing their flavor and adding a beautiful golden color. These carrots pair perfectly with roasted meats, poultry, or even plant-based dishes, offering a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the main course. The best part is that they cook in about 30-35 minutes, so they fit well into a busy cooking schedule without requiring a lot of attention.

To prepare honey-roasted carrots, begin by peeling 1 pound of carrots and cutting them into evenly sized sticks or coins for uniform cooking. Toss the carrots in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of honey, and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Spread the carrots out evenly on a baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Roast the carrots in a preheated oven at 400°F for 30-35 minutes, turning them once halfway through the cooking time to allow for even caramelization. Once they’re tender and lightly golden, you can garnish the carrots with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a touch of color and freshness before serving.

Garlic Sautéed Green Beans

Garlic sautéed green beans are a simple yet flavorful side that adds a fresh, crisp texture to any meal. The combination of sautéed garlic and tender green beans brings out the vegetable’s natural flavor while keeping it vibrant and appealing. Green beans are versatile and pair well with just about any main dish, from roasted meats to pasta. Plus, this dish is incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for those moments when you need a tasty side but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

To make garlic sautéed green beans, start by trimming the ends off 1 pound of fresh green beans and giving them a good rinse. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and add 3 thinly sliced garlic cloves to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown. Add the green beans to the skillet, stirring frequently to coat them with the garlic and oil. Continue to sauté the beans for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp and bright green. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Parmesan roasted broccoli is a perfect side dish for those looking for a simple yet flavorful way to prepare this nutritious vegetable. The high heat of the oven brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli while the Parmesan adds a savory, rich touch. The crispy edges of the broccoli florets are a nice contrast to the tender interior, making each bite a delightful mix of textures. This side pairs well with roasted meats, pasta, or even grain-based dishes, offering a quick and easy way to elevate any meal without a lot of fuss.

To prepare parmesan roasted broccoli, cut 1 pound of broccoli into bite-sized florets and dry them well to ensure they roast rather than steam. Toss the florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to allow for even roasting. Roast the broccoli at 425°F for 20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and lightly browned. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become golden. Once done, serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

Butter Glazed Peas

Butter-glazed peas are a simple yet comforting side that brings out the sweet, natural flavor of the peas. Whether you use frozen or fresh peas, this dish can be prepared in just a few minutes, making it an excellent last-minute addition to your holiday table. The buttery glaze adds richness without being too heavy, allowing the bright green peas to shine. It’s a side that works well with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to seafood or even vegetarian mains. Plus, the vibrant green color adds a fresh touch to your plate.

To make butter-glazed peas, begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 1 pound of frozen or fresh peas to the pan. Stir occasionally, cooking the peas for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and tender. Season with salt and a pinch of pepper to taste. For added freshness, you can stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint before serving. This dish is best served warm, right after cooking, to retain its bright color and texture.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Olive Oil

Roasted Brussels sprouts are an easy and delicious side that can quickly become a favorite, with their crispy, caramelized edges and tender centers. Roasting these little cabbages in the oven at high heat brings out their natural sweetness while creating a crispy texture that pairs well with savory dishes. They are a great addition to any meal, from festive holiday spreads to casual dinners, and they cook in under 40 minutes. The simplicity of olive oil, salt, and pepper allows the flavor of the Brussels sprouts to shine through without masking their natural taste.

To prepare roasted Brussels sprouts, start by trimming the ends and removing any damaged outer leaves from about 1 pound of Brussels sprouts. Slice them in half to ensure even cooking. Toss the sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper, making sure they are evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer for uniform roasting. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for 30 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Once done, they should be crispy on the edges and tender on the inside, ready to serve.

Sautéed Zucchini Coins

Sautéed zucchini coins are a quick and easy side that adds a fresh, light element to any meal. Zucchini cooks very quickly, and when sliced into coins, it becomes tender with a light golden crust on the edges. This dish pairs well with almost any main course, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes. The mild flavor of zucchini allows it to absorb the taste of the garlic and olive oil, making it a simple yet flavorful addition to the table.

To prepare sautéed zucchini, start by slicing 1 large zucchini into thin, even coins. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the zucchini slices in a single layer. Sauté the zucchini for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are lightly golden and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for added flavor.

Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes

Roasted sweet potato cubes offer a naturally sweet and satisfying side dish that is perfect for any occasion. The cubes cook evenly and quickly when cut small, developing crisp edges while the inside stays soft and tender. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs well with both savory and sweet mains, making it a versatile side that works with roasted meats, pasta, or even a plant-based meal. With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation, this dish is a great way to add both color and flavor to your plate.

To prepare roasted sweet potato cubes, peel and cube 1 pound of sweet potatoes into evenly sized pieces. Toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space for even roasting. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 35 minutes, turning once halfway through to allow for even cooking. Once they are golden and tender, serve them warm as a comforting and colorful side.

Spinach With Garlic and Olive Oil

Spinach with garlic and olive oil is a classic, simple side that comes together in just a few minutes. The combination of garlic and olive oil infuses the spinach with rich, aromatic flavor while keeping it light and fresh. This side works well with roasted meats, pasta, and even as a topping for grains like rice or quinoa. The quick sauté ensures the spinach stays bright and retains its nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal.

To prepare spinach with garlic, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 3 sliced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 pound of fresh spinach in batches, stirring as it wilts. Once all the spinach is added, sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately to maintain the spinach’s fresh flavor.

Roasted Cauliflower Florets

Roasted cauliflower florets are a simple and nutritious side that cooks quickly while developing a rich, nutty flavor. The high heat of the oven helps the cauliflower achieve a crisp, golden exterior while the interior stays tender. This side pairs well with almost any main dish, from grilled meats to vegetable-based mains, and offers a satisfying texture contrast. Roasted cauliflower is also very versatile, as it can be flavored with a variety of seasonings to match your meal.

To prepare roasted cauliflower florets, cut 1 head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets, making sure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Toss the florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or additional seasonings if desired.

Maple Glazed Butternut Squash

Maple-glazed butternut squash is a perfect autumn-inspired side that adds a sweet and savory touch to your meal. The maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, while roasting brings out its rich, deep flavors. This side pairs beautifully with roasted meats, especially turkey or chicken, and also works well for vegetarian meals. The addition of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth, making it a comforting option for cold-weather meals.

To prepare maple-glazed butternut squash, peel and cube 1 medium butternut squash into even pieces. Toss the cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer for even roasting. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 40 minutes, turning once halfway through. Once tender and golden, serve the squash warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Sautéed Mushrooms With Butter

Sautéed mushrooms with butter are a flavorful and quick side that enhances the natural umami of the mushrooms. The butter adds richness without being too heavy, while the mushrooms cook down and become tender. This dish pairs perfectly with steaks, chicken, or pasta, bringing a savory element that enhances the meal. The recipe is simple, making it an easy choice when you need a quick side to complement a main dish.

To prepare sautéed mushrooms with butter, slice 1 pound of mushrooms and pat them dry to remove any moisture. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Roasted Asparagus Spears

Roasted asparagus is an easy and flavorful side that cooks quickly, allowing you to get it on the table in no time. The asparagus retains its natural crispness and vibrant color when roasted at high heat. This simple preparation brings out the sweetness of the asparagus and makes it a great pairing for seafood, poultry, or roasted meats. Plus, it takes very little effort to prepare, making it ideal for busy meals.

To prepare roasted asparagus, trim the woody ends off 1 pound of asparagus and rinse them thoroughly. Toss the asparagus with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet for uniform roasting. Roast at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes until the asparagus is tender and lightly browned. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Warm Corn With Butter and Herbs

Warm corn with butter and herbs is a comforting and simple side that comes together in minutes. The corn retains its natural sweetness, while the butter adds richness and flavor. This dish pairs well with just about any main course, from roasted meats to pasta or grilled fish. It’s an easy way to bring a bit of freshness and color to the table without spending much time on preparation.

To prepare warm corn with butter and herbs, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 pound of frozen or fresh corn kernels and stir occasionally, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra touch of flavor, stir in some freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, before serving. Serve warm for the best flavor.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.