Looking for easy and flavorful sides, snacks, and veggie-packed dishes? These recipes make the most of simple ingredients—fresh, canned, frozen, or fermented—and come together with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re cooking in the air fryer, stovetop, or smoker, you’ll find a mix of crispy, savory, and colorful recipes to elevate any meal.
Air Fryer Onions
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Air fryer onions turn out sweet, tender, and perfectly caramelized without needing constant stirring. They’re delicious as a burger topping, in wraps, or added to salads for an extra layer of flavor.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Onions
Bell Pepper Nachos
Image Credit: Summer Yule
These bell pepper nachos are a lighter twist on the classic, using mini bell peppers instead of tortilla chips. Loaded with seasoned poultry, refried beans, and gooey cheese, they’re perfect for game day or a quick low-carb meal.
Get the recipe: Bell Pepper Nachos
Potatoes From a Can
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Canned potatoes make an ultra-convenient side dish when you’re short on time. Simply season and roast or pan-fry them until golden and crisp—they soak up flavor beautifully and go with just about anything.
Get the recipe: Potatoes from a Can
Air Fryer Potato Skins Recipe
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Crispy air fryer potato skins are stuffed with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions for the ultimate appetizer. Serve with sour cream or ranch for a crowd-pleasing snack or party bite.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Potato Skins
Air Fryer Breaded Mushrooms Recipe
Image Credit: Summer Yule
These air fryer breaded mushrooms are crispy on the outside and juicy inside—no deep frying needed. They make an irresistible appetizer or side dish, especially with your favorite dipping sauce.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Breaded Mushrooms
Fermented Red Cabbage Sauerkraut Recipe
Image Credit: Summer Yule
This homemade red cabbage sauerkraut is easy to ferment and turns a gorgeous magenta color as it develops. It’s tangy, crunchy, and full of gut-healthy probiotics—perfect for sandwiches, grain bowls, or as a zesty side.
Get the recipe: Fermented Red Cabbage
Smoked Portobello Mushrooms Recipe
Image Credit: Summer Yule
These smoked portobello mushrooms are rich, meaty, and infused with savory wood-fired flavor using a stovetop smoker. They’re a satisfying plant-based main or hearty addition to salads and grain bowls.
Get the recipe: Smoked Portobello Mushrooms
Fried Red Cabbage Recipe
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Fried red cabbage is a quick stovetop side dish with tender cabbage, sweet onions, crispy bacon, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. It’s a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy that pairs well with pork, sausages, or roasted meats.
Get the recipe: Fried Red Cabbage
Frozen Green Beans
Image Credit: Summer Yule
Don’t overlook frozen green beans—they’re a convenient and nutritious side you can quickly sauté or air fry. Add garlic, butter, or your favorite seasonings for a fresh-tasting veggie dish in minutes.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans
Keto Zucchini Boats with Chorizo
Image Credit: Summer Yule
These keto zucchini boats are stuffed with spicy chorizo and topped with melty cheese for a bold, low-carb meal. They’re packed with flavor and easy to customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream or avocado.
Get the recipe: Keto Zucchini Boats
Hello! I’m Summer, a registered dietitian and home chef who loves to cook, eat, and create recipes for you! Every recipe on this site has been tested by me to help ensure your success in the kitchen. All eaters are welcome here 🙂
Leave feedback about this