Let’s get real about the holidays. You spend hours prepping the main course—do you really want to spend more time on sides? We certainly don’t, so we opt for recipes that are quick and easy to make but don’t skimp on flavor. These dishes come together in under 30 minutes, which means you might even have time to kick back with a glass of bubbly before your guests arrive.
The 24 Fastest Holiday Side Dishes in the Universe
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Published Nov 28, 2018
Everything Roasted Asparagus
You probably already have all of these ingredients on hand.
One-pot Mac And One-pot Mac And Cheese
Not just for the kids’ table.
Honey Orange Roasted Carrots
A little sweet, a little savory.
Brussels Sprouts Skillet With Crispy Pancetta-garlic Bread Crumbs
Even Uncle Bob (who claims he hates Brussels sprouts) will be digging in.
Kale Caesar Salad With Fried Chickpeas
Just the right amount of crunch.
Coconut Creamed Spinach
With cayenne and ginger for a little extra kick.
Cacio E Pepe Cauliflower
Two thumbs up for this easy and delicious dish.
Baked Asparagus Fries
Get your crisp on.
Spicy Roasted Broccoli With Lemon Goat Cheese Drizzle
Even veggie haters will love this dish.
Dorie Greenspan’s Maple Syrup And Mustard Brussels Sprouts
Cool if we have thirds?
15-minute Microwave Mashed Potatoes
Sometimes shortcuts are the way to go.
Garlic Herb Carrots
Cut down on time by buying pre-chopped carrots.
Crispy Garlic Brussels Sprouts With Sriracha Aioli
Plus a creamy sauce for dunking.
Five-ingredient Red-wine Cranberry Sauce
It’s been nice knowing ya, canned cranberry.
Vegan Green Bean Casserole
A side dish everyone at the table can agree on.
Baked Cauliflower With Pomegranate Seeds And Baked Cauliflower With Pomegranate Seeds And Thyme
The easiest way to brighten up the holiday table.
Cheesy Asparagus Gratin
The best part? It only takes five minutes to prep.
30-minute Portobello Fried Brown Rice
Sounds tricky, but it’s actually pretty easy.
Kabocha Celery Salad
Lighten things up a bit.
Green Bean Bundles
Because everything’s better with bacon.
Cacio E Pepe Brussels Sprouts
Tastes like heaven.
Maple Glazed Carrots
One word: yum.
Baked Brie With Cranberries And Pomegranate
Hello, gorgeous.
Lemon Parmesan Green Beans
The winner here is freshly grated Parmesan cheese. (And you, of course.)