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    Home » MSN

    29 Indian Side Recipes To Make Every Dish A Showstopper

    Published: Mar 19, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    t’s hard to call them “sides” when 29 Indian recipes bring this much energy to the table. These dishes don’t just complement the meal—they give it competition. Crispy, fluffy, creamy, or spiced to perfection, each one adds something extra that keeps things from ever feeling boring.

    A bowl of Bombay Potatoes garnished with herbs, featuring golden potatoes and onions in a rich, spiced sauce.
    Bombay Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Curried Roasted Carrots

    Curried Roasted Carrots with seasoning, lined up neatly on a white surface.
    Curried Roasted Carrots. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Roasting carrots brings out their natural sweetness, and adding a twist with some spice makes them irresistible. Curried Roasted Carrots turn a simple side into a conversation starter. They're easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of zing to their meal.
    Get the Recipe: Curried Roasted Carrots

    Chilli Paneer

    Bowl of Chilli Paneer with red bell peppers and onions in a glossy sauce.
    Chilli Paneer. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Imagine cubes of paneer, tossed and glazed in a tangy and slightly spicy sauce. Chilli Paneer does just that, making it a fantastic side dish or a star appetizer. It's a versatile dish that pairs well with both rice and flatbreads. This Indo-Chinese fusion is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to spice up any dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Chilli Paneer

    Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

    Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot filled with freshly cut cubes of white paneer cheese.
    Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Making paneer at home is a game-changer, especially when it’s done in an Instant Pot. Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot simplifies the process, ensuring you get fresh, delicious cheese every time. It’s perfect for a variety of dishes, from saag paneer to tikka.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

    Curried Green Bean Casserole

    Baked casserole with green beans and crispy fried onions on top.
    Curried Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Everyone loves a good casserole, but when you toss in some curry, it transforms into something extraordinary. Curried Green Bean Casserole is a fusion dish that brings a pop of flavor to the table. It’s a unique take on the classic green bean casserole, adding a touch of spice.
    Get the Recipe: Curried Green Bean Casserole

    Air Fryer Eggplant

    Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Have you ever thought of making eggplant in an air fryer? Air Fryer Eggplant is a revelation, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing texture or flavor. This method gives the eggplant a wonderfully crispy edge, making it a great side dish or snack.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

    Chayote Squash Curry Instant Pot

    Top view of a pan filled with Chayote Squash Curry cooked with herbs and spices, garnished with fresh coriander leaves.
    Chayote Squash Curry Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    For those looking to dig into the world of lesser-known vegetables, Chayote Squash Curry Instant Pot offers a fantastic experience. It's a quick and flavorful curry that showcases the squash's subtle flavors. Cooked in an Instant Pot, it melds spices and squash perfectly, making it an easy dish for curry enthusiasts.
    Get the Recipe: Chayote Squash Curry Instant Pot

    Egg Fried Rice

    A bowl of Egg Fried Rice with green onions, and diced vegetables, served in a speckled ceramic bowl.
    Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Up your rice game with Egg Fried Rice, a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with just about anything. This dish is a great way to use up leftover rice, turning it into a flavorful, fulfilling meal. It’s quick to make and always a hit, whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests.
    Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

    Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry

    A plate of cooked Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry, served in a terracotta dish.
    Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Not your average green, but Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry brings a fresh perspective to side dishes. It's light, nutritious, and full of flavor, making it a great companion to both rice and flatbreads. This dish shines a spotlight on an often-overlooked vegetable, turning it into a tasty, healthy choice.
    Get the Recipe: Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry

    Ladi Pav

    Close-up of freshly baked Ladi Pav on a wire rack, some split open to reveal a soft, fluffy interior.
    Ladi Pav. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    No Indian meal is complete without some form of bread, and Ladi Pav steps up as the perfect, fluffy companion. These soft buns are a staple alongside curries, making for the perfect scoop or snack. They’re even wonderful on their own, a testament to the simple joys bread can bring to the table.
    Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

    Palak Paneer Stir Fry

    A bowl of indian Palak Paneer Stir Fry, featuring cubes of paneer cheese mixed with spiced, cooked spinach and herbs.
    Palak Paneer Stir Fry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Palak Paneer Stir Fry puts a quick and healthy spin on a classic favorite. It combines nutritious greens with creamy paneer, all seasoned to perfection. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something wonderfully flavorful and fulfilling. It's a versatile dish that fits any meal plan.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

    Vegetable Fried Rice

    A bowl of Vegetable Fried Rice with mixed vegetables including carrots, bell peppers, and peas.
    Vegetable Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Transform leftover rice into a vibrant and hearty meal with Vegetable Fried Rice. It’s a colorful, fulfilling side that’s brimming with flavors and textures. This dish is a clever way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, proving that healthy can also be hearty. It's a definite go-to for a quick and easy meal fix.
    Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fried Rice

    Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

    A bowl of diced Beetroot Palya garnished with herbs and sprinkled with salt, served on a dark textured background.
    Instant Pot Beetroot Palya. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    If you’re after something that’s both nutritious and vibrant, look no further than Instant Pot Beetroot Palya. This dish brings a pop of color and a bunch of health benefits to your plate. It’s a simple, yet flavorful way to enjoy beetroots, with minimal fuss thanks to the Instant Pot.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

    Masala Mashed Potatoes

    Close-up of Masala Mashed Potatoes garnished with herbs.
    Masala Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Give a classic side dish an Indian twist with Masala Mashed Potatoes. This version adds a kick of spice to creamy mashed potatoes, creating a comforting yet exciting dish. It's a great way to spice up an otherwise ordinary meal, proving that a little creativity can go a long way.
    Get the Recipe: Masala Mashed Potatoes

    Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

    A bowl of cooked white rice garnished with cashews, curry leaves, and dried red chilies, displayed on a rustic table setting.
    Coconut Rice in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Coconut Rice in Instant Pot is a dream come true for anyone looking for a fuss-free, flavorful side dish. This dish combines the creaminess of coconut with aromatic rice, resulting in a subtly sweet and rich flavor. It's an effortless way to add a tropical twist to your meal.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

    Spiced Smashed Potatoes

    Smashed potatoes on a black plate.
    Spiced Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    When you’re in the mood for something with a bit of crunch and a lot of flavor, Spiced Smashed Potatoes come to the rescue. They’re a perfect blend of crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers, with just the right amount of spice. This dish proves that potatoes are anything but boring.
    Get the Recipe: Spiced Smashed Potatoes

    Maddur Vada

    A basket of crispy, round fried snacks with visible herbs and small pieces of onion.
    Maddur Vada. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Craving something crunchy and savory? Maddur Vada fits the bill perfectly. These crispy fritters are a popular snack in South India, known for their distinct texture and taste. Ideal for teatime or as a side, they easily make any dining experience more enjoyable. Just try stopping at one!
    Get the Recipe: Maddur Vada

    How to Freeze Spinach

    A close-up of several green, leafy spinach blocks arranged on a white plate.
    How to Freeze Spinach. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    If you’re looking for a way to preserve spinach while keeping its freshness intact, learning How to Freeze Spinach is invaluable. This simple process ensures you have healthy greens at hand for any dish, any time. It’s an easy step towards healthier eating habits.
    Get the Recipe: How to Freeze Spinach

    Ragi Ambali

    Two glasses of ragi ambali placed on a brown mat.
    Ragi Ambali. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    For a traditional and nutritious drink, Ragi Ambali stands out. It's a staple in many households, praised for its health benefits and its ability to refresh and satisfy. This drink is a testament to the power of traditional recipes, offering a wholesome experience. It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a nourishing treat.
    Get the Recipe: Ragi Ambali

    Cilantro Rice

    Close-up of a bowl of Cilantro Rice garnished with parsley, highlighting the texture and color of the dish.
    Cilantro Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cilantro Rice brings a refreshing touch to your meal with its vibrant flavors. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a herby kick to their rice. It’s light, flavorful, and makes a great companion to a variety of dishes. Easy to prepare and always a hit, it’s a simple way to make an ordinary meal extraordinary.
    Get the Recipe: Cilantro Rice

    Corn Chaat

    A close-up of a bowl filled with corn salad, featuring yellow corn kernels mixed with diced red bell peppers, onions, and herbs.
    Corn Chaat. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Corn Chaat is a riot of flavors and textures, making it a perfect snack or side. This dish is all about balance, blending sweet, tangy, and spicy in every bite. It’s incredibly versatile, serving as a wonderful snack or a complement to meals. A surefire way to bring some excitement to your table.
    Get the Recipe: Corn Chaat

    Vegetable Raita

    Vegetable Raita. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cool down your palate with Vegetable Raita, a yogurt-based dish that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful. This side is perfect for balancing out spicy meals, offering a creamy, cool contrast. It’s a testament to the beauty of simple dishes, combining basic ingredients for a profoundly fulfilling effect.
    Get the Recipe: Vegetable Raita

    Air Fryer Bell Peppers

    A plate of sautéed colorful bell peppers seasoned with herbs and spices.
    Air Fryer Bell Peppers. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Air Fryer Bell Peppers are a vibrant, nutritious addition to any meal. This method retains the peppers’ natural sweetness and adds a nice char, giving them a fantastic texture and flavor. It’s an easy, healthy way to enjoy your veggies and complement a wide range of dishes.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bell Peppers

    Sona Masoori Rice

    Cooked sona masoori rice on a blue plate.
    Sona Masoori Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Sona Masoori Rice is a versatile staple that pairs beautifully with a myriad of dishes. Its light, fluffy texture and distinct flavor make it a favorite across many households. This rice brings a delicate balance to flavorful curries and stews, proving that sometimes simple is best. It’s the foundation for any great meal.
    Get the Recipe: Sona Masoori Rice

    Cabbage Salad

    Cabbage salad in a white bowl with chips in the background.
    Cabbage Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cabbage Salad offers a crunchy, refreshing side that’s both easy to make and healthy. This dish brings a wonderful crunch to your meal, perfect for cutting through heavier dishes. It’s a simple way to add more veggies to your diet, showing that salads can be both tasty and fulfilling.
    Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

    Steamed Lentil Dumplings Nucchina Unde

    Steamed Lentil Dumplings Nucchina Unde. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    If you’re after something steamed, healthy, and packed with protein, Steamed Lentil Dumplings Nucchina Unde are a fantastic choice. These dumplings are a traditional delicacy, offering a soft, savory bite. They’re perfect as a snack or a side, bringing a touch of tradition to any meal.
    Get the Recipe: Steamed Lentil Dumplings Nucchina Unde

    Kurkuri Bhindi

    A plate of crispy, golden-fried okra seasoned with spices and garnished with a few cilantro leaves.
    Kurkuri Bhindi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Crispy, spicy, and utterly addictive, Kurkuri Bhindi is a dish that can steal the show. This okra dish is fried to achieve its signature crunch, making it a perfect snack or side. It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy okra, proving that this vegetable can be anything but slimy.
    Get the Recipe: Kurkuri Bhindi

    Air Fryer Beets

    Diced roasted beetroot pieces scattered on a white plate, garnished with green herbs.
    Air Fryer Beets. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    For a sweet, earthy side dish that’s also healthy, Air Fryer Beets are a brilliant choice. Using an air fryer brings out their natural sugars, caramelizing them to perfection. This method turns beets into a wonderful side dish, offering a mix of sweet and savory. It’s a hassle-free way to get your veggies in.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beets

    Pan-Fried Chayote Squash

    Close-up of a bowl filled with diced potatoes cooked with turmeric, garnished with chopped cilantro.
    Pan-Fried Chayote Squash. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Discover the subtle, crisp flavor of Pan-Fried Chayote Squash, a side dish that’s both unique and tasty. This method enhances the squash’s natural taste, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. It’s a simple, yet fulfilling way to explore different vegetable options.
    Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Chayote Squash

    Bombay Potatoes

    A bowl of Bombay Potatoes garnished with herbs, featuring golden potatoes and onions in a rich, spiced sauce.
    Bombay Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Bombay Potatoes are a robust, spicy dish that’s both comforting and exhilarating. This take on potatoes is anything but ordinary, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. It’s a popular dish for a reason, serving as a hearty companion to both rice and bread.
    Get the Recipe: Bombay Potatoes

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