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    Home » MSN

    Big Flavors Come In Little Packages With 29 Indian Side Dishes

    Published: Mar 9, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    Small dishes can bring rich taste and bold spices to any meal. Every bite is packed with flavors that make food exciting and enjoyable. These dishes can be a great way to add something special to any table. Big flavors come in little packages with 29 Indian side dishes.

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

    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.

    Big flavors come in small packages with Palak Paneer Stir Fry. It's like a party for your taste with every bite. Lightly sautéed spinach with rich paneer creates a perfect harmony of textures. It's easy to whip up, and it's always a hit. You'll wonder why you didn't try it sooner.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

    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.

    Get ready for a flavor explosion with Instant Pot Beetroot Palya. Beetroots never felt so gourmet until now. A few minutes in the Instant Pot, and you're ready to roll. Perfect as a side that packs a punch. It's sure to be a conversation starter at dinner!
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

    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.

    Cooking up something unique like Coconut Rice in Instant Pot can be a game changer. Infused with the goodness of coconut, it’s a rich and aromatic treat. The Instant Pot makes it so easy, too. Ideal for a nutritious and delicious side dish. Your taste will thank you!
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

    Air Fryer Eggplant

    Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Air Fryer Eggplant delivers a crunch you won't forget. It's amazing what a few minutes in the air fryer can do for this humble veggie. Each bite is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect to pair with your favorite main course. You'll be adding this to your regular menu in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

    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 Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot is a total game changer. Why buy when you can make fresh, delicious paneer at home? It's easier than you think and tastes incredible. A great addition to any side dish repertoire. Your kitchen will feel like a professional restaurant!
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

    Red Rice

    A bowl of Red Rice displayed close-up.
    Red Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Try something different with Red Rice tonight. With its nutty texture and beautiful color, it's more than just rice. It’s a nutritious option that brings everything together on the plate. Perfect as a side that's both tasty and good for you. You’ll love how it upgrade your meal.
    Get the Recipe: Red Rice

    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.

    Quick and tasty, Chayote Squash Curry Instant Pot will surprise you. The soft texture of chayote with the rich curry flavors is a winning combo. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process a breeze. A perfect addition to any meal. You'll love adding this to your recipe list.
    Get the Recipe: Chayote Squash Curry Instant Pot

    Gujarati Kadhi

    Bowl of creamy Gujarati Kadhi garnished with herbs, presented in a blue ceramic bowl.
    Gujarati Kadhi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Experience comfort eating with Gujarati Kadhi. This yogurt-based gem is tangy and warming. It’s like a hug in a bowl and so simple to prepare. Pair it with your favorite rice or flatbread. A perfect way to add a touch of tradition to your table.
    Get the Recipe: Gujarati Kadhi

    Bharwa Bhindi

    A bowl of Bharwa Bhindi garnished with fresh cilantro, served on a textured tablecloth.
    Bharwa Bhindi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Bringing flavors to new heights is Bharwa Bhindi. Stuffed with a flavorful mix, these okra pieces are little delights. A side dish that brings a smile to everyone's face. It’s sure to surprise those who’ve never tried okra this way. Give it a go and see the magic!
    Get the Recipe: Bharwa Bhindi

    Naan Recipe

    naan ingredients with labels.
    Naan Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    What’s a meal without Naan Recipe to complete it, This fluffy bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of curry. Easy to make and even easier to eat. It’s a staple that brings everything together. Soon, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
    Get the Recipe: Naan Recipe

    Mango Dal

    A plate of white rice paired with yellow dal garnished with chili peppers and curry leaves.
    Mango Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    A delicious way to enjoy big flavors with every spoonful, Mango Dal is perfect for those cozy meal times. The sweetness of mango paired with a hint of tanginess creates a burst of taste that makes every bite memorable. It's almost like a hug in a bowl. Perfect with some naan or layered with other side dishes.
    Get the Recipe: Mango Dal

    Basmati Rice

    A bowl of cooked Basmati Rice on a gray surface, garnished with parsley, with a wooden spoon nearby.
    Basmati Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Light and fluffy, Basmati Rice brings out the best in any side dish. Its aromatic grains are like a comforting embrace for your taste experiences. Great on its own or paired with spicy curries, it’s that perfect staple we all need in our lives. Simple yet full of possibilities. It’s a classic addition to any meal.
    Get the Recipe: Basmati Rice

    Pan-Fried Plantains

    A bowl of Pan-Fried Plantains with fresh herbs.
    Pan-Fried Plantains. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Crispy and delicious, Pan-Fried Plantains bring an exciting twist to your side dish game. Each bite is packed with a sweetness and a crispy edge. Whether they’re served as a snack or a side, they add a nice balance to any spicy main. They’re simple to make and hard to resist.
    Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Plantains

    Instant Pot Jeera Rice

    A bowl of cooked Jeera Rice, garnished, presented on a textured grey background.
    Instant Pot Jeera Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Packed with flavor, Instant Pot Jeera Rice is an easy way to jazz up your dinner. The subtle taste of cumin, mixed with those long, fragrant grains, adds so much personality to your plate. Whether you’re pairing it with dal or curry, you’re in for a treat. It’s like an instant upgrade to your usual rice.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jeera 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.

    Nutritious and flavorful, Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry is a wonderful way to add greens to your meal. The leaves are cooked just right to retain their vibrant color and flavor. It’s amazing how something so simple can be so tasty. Goes great with some rice or flatbread. You’ll feel good eating it.
    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.

    Soft and fluffy, Ladi Pav is perfect for mopping up those delicious gravies and curries. Each roll is a cozy bundle of joy that’s hard to resist. They add that extra bit of oomph to any meal. Whether you’re having a spicy curry or a simple chutney, they’re always a hit. A little bite of comfort.
    Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

    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.

    Crunchy and full of flavor, Air Fryer Bell Peppers offer a fresh addition to any meal. Quick and easy to make, these peppers keep their vibrant color and nice crisp texture. They’re a fantastic side to pair with your favorite dishes. Light on the outside with a burst of taste inside.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bell Peppers

    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.

    Spicy and comforting, Bombay Potatoes are packed with big flavors in each bite. These potatoes are tender on the inside with a crispy outside. Perfect for enjoying with rice or your favorite flatbread. They bring a warm, hearty touch to any meal. A delicious addition that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
    Get the Recipe: Bombay Potatoes

    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.

    Quick and tasty, Egg Fried Rice mixes fluffy rice with bits of scrambled eggs for a simple yet delicious side. Perfect for those moments when you crave something easy and flavorful. It goes well with just about any main dish. Each spoonful is a mix of textures and tastes. It’s a go-to favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

    Chilli Paneer

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

    Ever tried something that packs a punch of flavor in such a tiny bite, Chilli Paneer does exactly that, blending heat and a touch of sweetness. It’s a perfect blend that dances tango in your mouth. Pair it with your favorite main dish, and you’ve got yourself a dinner party for your taste.
    Get the Recipe: Chilli Paneer

    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.

    Colorful and packed with veggies, Vegetable Fried Rice is a versatile side that’s both healthy and tasty. Every spoonful is loaded with a variety of flavors and textures. Great on its own or paired with a spicy curry, it’s a perfect way to bring everything together. Easy to make and always delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fried Rice

    Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli

    A bowl of Kadlekalu Usli salad garnished with coconut and cilantro, served on a green tablecloth.
    Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    There’s something magical about the way Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli packs so much flavor into little bites. These seasoned black chickpeas are a masterclass in how simplicity can be so tasty. It offers a crunch with each bite. Ideal for those times you need a flavorful side to complement your meal.
    Get the Recipe: Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli

    Curried Roasted Carrots

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

    Experience the burst of flavors with Curried Roasted Carrots that brings a rich and comforting vibe to your meal. These lovingly roasted veggies are coated with subtle spices that turn ordinary carrots into a flavorful delight. Perfectly tender and slightly crispy, they add a nice texture to your plate.
    Get the Recipe: Curried Roasted Carrots

    Indian Sweet Potato Cubes

    Sweet potato cubes on a plate.
    Indian Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Let’s talk about how sweet potatoes get a flavor makeover with Indian Sweet Potato Cubes. Each cube is flavored to tune up the usual vibe into something spectacular. This little addition can bring a delicious twist to your dining table. So easy to make, yet they feel like a special treat.
    Get the Recipe: Indian Sweet Potato Cubes

    Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts garnished with lemon wedges on a plate.
    Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Discover the new love for veggies with Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, which will have you rethinking everything you know about this veggie. The crispiness combined with flavorful Indian spices makes it a side dish to remember. It’s a delicious way to bring a change to your meal routine.
    Get the Recipe: Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Air Fryer Beets

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

    Cooking just got fun with Air Fryer Beets that turn a simple veggie into a flavor-packed delight. These beets come out crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. The earthy flavors are enhanced with a mix of spices that make them irresistible. Perfect way to add color and excitement to your meal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beets

    Curried Green Bean Casserole

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

    Enjoy a lively twist on a classic with the Curried Green Bean Casserole, offering a burst of flavors. Tossed in a vibrant mix of spices, these green beans are more than just a side dish. They become an exciting addition to your dinner plate. An easy way to bring a little spice and a lot of joy to your meal.
    Get the Recipe: Curried Green Bean Casserole

    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.

    Looking for something to add a lively twist to your meal? Cilantro Rice is the ticket, bringing fresh and vibrant flavors to your plate. Every grain is infused with the zippy taste of cilantro and a hint of lime. This isn’t your average side dish; it’s a little burst of herbal joy.
    Get the Recipe: Cilantro Rice

    Masala Mashed Potatoes

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

    Spice up your dinner routine with Masala Mashed Potatoes. This twist on the classic mashed potatoes brings in big flavors with the addition of Indian spices. Creamy, fluffy, and perfectly seasoned, it’s comfort food that packs a punch.
    Get the Recipe: Masala Mashed Potatoes

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