As a home cook who navigates the world of gluten-free cuisine, I’m constantly seeking innovative recipes that bring excitement to my meals. Side dishes, in particular, play a vital role in completing a dish, injecting vibrancy through their texture, flavor, and visual appeal. In this comprehensive collection, I’m thrilled to share 25 delectable and easy-to-prepare gluten-free side dish recipes that cater to every palate and occasion.
Ranging from timeless favorites like roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to modern twists such as cauliflower rice and beet salad, there’s something for every meal of the day. Many of these recipes can be conveniently prepared ahead of time and reheated with ease, making them perfect for busy home cooks.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
While roasted Brussels sprouts may not be the most glamorous veggie option, they’re truly elevated when cooked to perfection. When halved and tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, they develop a sweet, nutty flavor that’s irresistible. For added depth of flavor and texture, I like to add halved shallots and crispy bacon bits. The result is a delicious side dish that just happens to be gluten-free – making it perfect for the holidays or any night you want a tasty treat. And the best part?
It’s incredibly easy to make, so be sure to give it a try! The recipe is available below.
Hasselback Potatoes Recipe
Transform your baked potatoes into stunning Hasselback potatoes, a Swedish culinary delight! To achieve this show-stopping dish, start by slicing the potatoes vertically almost all the way through, creating thin layers that will fan out as they bake. As you brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt before popping them in the oven, the oil helps the salt stick and creates a satisfying crunch.
To ensure perfectly cooked results, use a wooden spoon to gently coax the potato slices apart on both sides, preventing overcutting. Once golden brown, serve these impressive Hasselback potatoes alongside a tender steak or roasted meat for a truly unforgettable meal.
Gluten Free Mexican Rice
To create a rich and savory gluten-free Mexican rice dish, begin by combining tomato sauce, chicken broth, and green chilies in a pot. Then, add aromatics like onion, garlic, and spices such as cumin, chili powder, and oregano to amplify the flavors. Let the mixture simmer uncovered, allowing the rice to absorb the seasoned liquid. Once cooked, finish with a bright note by stirring in fresh cilantro.
This versatile side dish pairs well with fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, or served alongside Mexican-inspired proteins for a satisfying weeknight dinner that’s equally suitable for company.
Baked Wild Rice with Veggies
Wild rice offers a delightful respite from the usual white or brown varieties, boasting a nutty texture that’s both satisfying and unique. This delectable baked wild rice dish is elevated by the rich flavors of roasted vegetables like butternut squash, cremini mushrooms, and spinach. The result is a hearty, filling meal where the tender rice perfectly balances the caramelized vegetables. To add an extra layer of crunch and nutty goodness, simply top it with toasted cashews.
This gluten-free masterpiece doubles as a satisfying main course or a side dish that’s sure to please.
Sauteed Green Beans with Garlic
In just five minutes, you can elevate humble green beans into a side dish worthy of a restaurant. The secret to this culinary transformation lies in the magic of sautéing, which not only preserves the vibrant green color but also coaxes out the natural sweetness and pairs it with an aromatic depth courtesy of garlic and sea salt. The resulting texture is perfectly crisp, never mushy or overcooked.
While fresh green beans are always a delight, you can also use thawed frozen varieties to achieve similar results. This effortless sautéed green bean recipe is incredibly versatile and will pair beautifully with a wide range of main dishes.
Greek Chickpea Salad
This vibrant Greek-inspired chickpea salad is a symphony of textures and flavors. Crisp bell peppers, refreshing cucumber, tangy tomatoes, crunchy red onion, and creamy chickpeas come together in perfect harmony. The zesty lemon dressing, infused with the savory notes of olive oil, mustard, and oregano, perfectly complements the medley of vegetables. A sprinkle of salty feta cheese adds a delightful creaminess to tie everything together.
Whether served as a side dish, light lunch, or piled high over fresh greens, this gluten-free salad is sure to satisfy.
Simple Roasted Vegetables
Unlocking the full flavor potential of vegetables is just a matter of heat – specifically, high dry heat. When roasted, natural sugars on the surface caramelize, transforming into a sweet, crispy delight. This cooking method is particularly effective in elevating the taste of root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, as well as cruciferous veggies like Brussels sprouts and onions, which all share similar cook times.
Simply toss your chopped vegetables with olive oil, spread them out on a sheet pan, and roast at 425°F until they’re beautifully browned and tender. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs for the ultimate flavor experience.
Sweet Potato Casserole
A sweet potato casserole without the marshmallow topping? No worries! This homemade version more than compensates with its crunchy pecan streusel. Sweet potatoes bring their natural sweetness, warmth, and silky texture to the table, while the pecans add a delightful textural contrast. Meanwhile, warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves infuse the dish with comforting aromatic flavors that evoke feelings of coziness and familiarity. And the best part?
This gluten-free side dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time of year, making it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.
Perfect Roasted Asparagus
When it comes to cooking asparagus, roasting is the clear winner over steaming or sautéing. To achieve tender and flavorful results without the stalks becoming rubbery, attention to preparation is crucial. Start by trimming off the woody ends of each spear before giving them a gentle wash to remove any dirt or debris. While peeling isn’t always necessary, it’s worth doing so if the spears are particularly thick or tough.
Once clean and prepared, pat the asparagus dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Next, drizzle the stalks with oil and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the tips begin to develop a delightful char. To finish, squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over the roasted asparagus, sprinkle with shaved Parmesan cheese, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and added depth. This simple yet refined gluten-free side dish is sure to impress.
Irish Mashed Potatoes (Colcannon)
In Ireland, a staple side dish is Colcannon, a creative combination of mashed potatoes, cooked kale or cabbage, and onions or leeks. This innovative use of leftovers results in a harmonious blend of creamy spuds and crunchy greens. The addition of salt, pepper, butter, and milk brings out the flavors, while the cabbage contributes a refreshing texture. To make Colcannon gluten-free for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or any time, simply serve it as you would regular mashed potatoes.
For those looking to get the recipe, just let us know.
Cauliflower Gratin
Transforming a classic potato gratin into a gluten-free delight is as simple as substituting cauliflower florets for potatoes. This ingenious hack yields a dish that’s not only lighter but also packed with flavor. To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, combine grated Gruyère and cheddar cheese with a rich cream base. The key to achieving the ideal texture lies in ensuring the cauliflower retains some crunch, so be cautious not to overcook it.
When served alongside roast chicken or pork, the addictive crispy topping adds a delightful textural contrast that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls
Elevate any meal with warm, fresh-from-the-oven gluten-free rolls. Today’s advanced flour blends yield a lighter, airier texture that’s a far cry from the dense, crumbly loaves of yesteryear. To take things to the next level, infuse your gluten-free creations with an array of flavors such as rosemary, sea salt flakes, cheese, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. The possibilities are endless – shape your rolls into perfect spheres, rustic sticks, or even delicate slices.
With gluten-free bread, the sky’s the limit when it comes to creativity and experimentation.
Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Imagine sinking your teeth into sweet, buttery glazed baby carrots that evoke the warm hospitality of Cracker Barrel restaurants. The recipe is surprisingly straightforward – simply melt together butter, brown sugar, and spices until a rich glaze forms. Then, pour it over cooked baby carrots and stir to ensure they’re thoroughly coated. As the glaze seeps into the tender vegetable, you’ll be left with a delightful balance of textures that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
And if baby carrots aren’t on hand, don’t worry – thinly sliced regular carrots make a suitable substitute. This sweet and savory side dish pairs perfectly with classic Southern comfort food.
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
The quintessential creamy coleslaw is a match made in heaven for fried chicken, BBQ, and sandwiches alike. To replicate the iconic KFC flavor at home, simply combine finely shredded cabbage with a medley of ingredients including mayonnaise, milk, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Allowing the dressed slaw to chill for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly, resulting in a delightfully textured side dish that’s also gluten-free.
Feel free to mix things up by adding carrots, onions, or other vegetables to suit your taste. Whether served on its own or used as a topping, this easy homemade coleslaw is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Garlic Parmesan Rice
Elevate the humble rice dish by incorporating a few simple techniques. Begin by thoroughly rinsing the rice to remove excess starch, ensuring a cleaner flavor profile. Next, toast the rice in olive oil or butter before adding liquid ingredients, which will amplify its natural sweetness. To take it to the next level, incorporate aromatic seasonings such as garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and soy sauce.
Finally, stir in grated Parmesan cheese after cooking for a rich, savory finish that complements saucy dishes beautifully.
Whipped Sweet Potatoes
Indulge in the unadulterated sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, elevated by a harmonious blend of spices and dairy. By eschewing marshmallows, this whipped sweet potato recipe allows the natural flavors of the spuds to take center stage. Simply boil, peel, and mash the sweet potatoes with butter, cream, salt, pepper, vanilla, and a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. The resulting texture is silky smooth, courtesy of the folded dairy, which replaces heavy cream’s richness.
For added crunch and visual appeal, top with toasted pecans if desired. This delectable gluten-free side dish is perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or autumn gatherings, yet remains effortlessly easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Transform your potato wedges into a crispy delight without sacrificing flavor or health. By simply cutting potatoes into wedges, tossing them with oil, and air-frying at 400°F for half the time, you’ll achieve that perfect balance of fluffy inside and crunchy outside. Add some flair to your dish by seasoning with smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic, or Italian herbs, taking advantage of the air fryer’s convection heat.
This gluten-free snack is a crowd-pleaser when served alongside veggies and dip, eggs, chili, or sandwiches.
Homemade Potato Chips
Transform your snack game by creating homemade potato chips that are not only delicious but also tailored to your dietary preferences. To achieve the perfect crispy texture, start by thinly slicing potatoes using a mandoline for uniform thickness. Soak the slices in cold water, then dry them thoroughly before frying small batches in hot oil until they reach the ideal crispiness. Add flavor as soon as the chips emerge from the oil, taking care to balance crunch and seasoning.
With practice, you’ll master the art of creating perfectly crispy potato chips that are free from unwanted additives. The best part? You’re in complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to experiment with unique flavors like lemon pepper, ranch, barbecue, and salt and vinegar.
Quick Collard Greens
In just a few minutes, you can have delicious slow cooked collard greens without the need for long cooking times. To start, remove the stems from the collard leaves and slice them into thin ribbons. Next, heat some olive oil in a large pan over high heat and add the greens. Quickly toss them until they begin to wilt and develop crispy edges – this should only take about 1-2 minutes. Once cooked, season the greens with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to bring out their natural flavor.
The result is a tasty and healthy snack that’s reminiscent of seaweed chips. This quick stovetop method makes it easy to enjoy Southern-style collards anytime.
The Best Beet Salad
In perfect harmony, roasted beets unite with tangy goat cheese, zesty vinaigrette, and a medley of textures from toasted walnuts and peppery arugula. This symphony of flavors not only pleases the palate but also pairs exquisitely with a variety of main courses, including seafood, chicken, and pork dishes. As a gluten-free side salad, it brings a pop of color and bold flavor to the plate.
Cauliflower Rice
Transforming cauliflower into a low-carb, gluten-free substitute for traditional rice is surprisingly easy. Simply process florets of cauliflower into fine granules that mimic the texture of cooked rice. Then, cook the cauliflower ‘rice’ in a skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, or until it reaches an al dente consistency. For added flavor, season with salt, garlic, or other herbs and spices.
This versatile cauliflower rice can be enjoyed as a fried rice-style side dish or paired with savory sauces and curries.
Simple Steamed Broccoli
Cooking tender yet crisp broccoli can be a challenge, as overcooking often results in an unappetizing mushy texture. However, with the right technique, you can achieve perfectly cooked broccoli every time. Steaming is a reliable method for cooking this healthy veggie to perfection. To start, cut the broccoli crowns into even florets and peel and slice the stems.
Then, place them in a steamer basket above boiling water and cook until they reach a bright green color, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, you can toss the broccoli with butter or olive oil and add your desired seasonings. Not only is this method easy to execute, but it’s also gluten-free, making it a guilt-free side dish option for any meal. Plus, steamed broccoli keeps well in the fridge for food prep, making it a convenient addition to your daily menu.
Super Easy Green Peas
Sweet and tender, buttery sweet peas are a simple gluten-free side dish that pairs well with an array of culinary delights. While frozen peas are a convenient option, fresh spring peas boast an even sweeter flavor profile. To prepare this delightful side, melt butter in a skillet over moderate heat before adding either fresh or frozen peas. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 2 minutes, until the peas reach your desired level of tenderness.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed to balance the flavors. For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing diced onion alongside the butter as it melts. This effortless preparation makes quick work of cooking green veggies, yielding a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Creamy Corn Pudding Recipe
This beloved corn pudding recipe is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures, boasting a harmonious blend of creamy sweetness and crispy crunch. As a gluten-free alternative to traditional cornbread dressing, it’s sure to impress. A delicate dance between eggs and corn provides structure, while the richness of cheese, cream, and butter takes center stage. Milk expertly infuses the corn with tenderness and moisture, preventing sogginess and ensuring each bite is delightfully creamy.
To add a satisfying textural element, top with cornbread crumbs or crushed crackers. This comforting side dish pairs beautifully with BBQ, fried chicken, or other Southern-inspired favorites.
Microwave Corn on the Cob
Microwaving corn on the cob can be a game-changer when it comes to bringing out its natural sweetness. To do it justice, simply place the ears of corn in their husks in the microwave for 4-5 minutes per ear. As the microwaves cook the corn, the husk and silk will steam and season it to perfection, keeping it nice and moist in the process. Once cooked, use tongs to carefully remove the hot husks from the ears of corn.
Then, take a moment to brush on some melted butter and sprinkle with kosher salt and pepper for added depth of flavor. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider adding one or more of your favorite toppings – think grated Parmesan, creamy mayo, crumbly Mexican cotija cheese, or a spicy kick from chili lime seasoning. The end result is a snack that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with mouthwatering flavor.
