15 Easy Spring Sides I Make When I Don’t Want to Spend All Day in the Kitchen
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Spring recipes are my excuse to keep things simple, fresh, and fast. I’m all about easy sides that don’t take all day but still taste like I definitely put in the effort. These are the spring go-to’s I keep coming back to. Because let’s be honest, when the weather’s this nice, who wants to be stuck inside cooking?
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
When I want something veggie-heavy but still fast and delicious, these parmesan roasted green beans are a go-to side. I use frozen green beans to save time, toss them with seasoning, and bake until they’re crisp on the edges and cheesy on top. I make these all spring long because they’re easy, and actually get eaten.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Cilantro Lime Rice
This cilantro lime rice never fails to make any dinner feel just a little brighter. It’s fluffy, full of fresh flavor, and goes with basically everything, grilled chicken, fish, tacos, or even on its own with beans. I always keep this in my rotation when I don’t want to fuss with a complicated side, one pot, no stress, and totally spring-approved.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Popeyes Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is my shortcut to something cool, crunchy, and crowd-pleasing. It’s got the perfect balance of tang and sweetness, and I can toss it together in minutes with simple ingredients. I’ve served it alongside everything from burgers to grilled fish when I need a simple spring side that tastes like more effort than it took.
Get the Recipe: Popeyes Coleslaw
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
These zucchini fries are my answer to spring snacking or a crispy dinner side that doesn’t need babysitting. Just toss, air fry, and in under 20 minutes, they come out golden and delicious with a touch of parmesan. I rely on these when I want something crunchy without standing over the stove.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Carrot Raisin Salad
Carrot raisin salad is a lifesaver when I’m out of ideas and need something fast, light, and crunchy. Shredded carrots, juicy raisins, and a tangy-sweet dressing all mix up in under 10 minutes, and it always disappears quickly at the table. It tastes like spring in a bowl and breaks up all the heavier stuff from winter.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad
Homemade Asparagus
When asparagus is fresh and cheap, I grab a bunch and roast it up, no mushy spears here. A quick trim, splash of oil, and simple seasoning is all it takes to get that crisp-tender bite. It’s one of my go-to veggie dishes this time of year because it pairs with everything and takes almost no effort, a solid staple when I want something green without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Asparagus
Potato and Leek Soup
On those cooler spring days, this potato and leek soup hits that cozy-but-not-heavy sweet spot. It’s silky smooth with flavor from garlic, leeks, and a handful of herbs, and I love that it simmers quietly while I handle other things. It’s always part of my seasonal lineup when I want something that feels comforting but still light.
Get the Recipe: Potato and Leek Soup
Quick Pickled Fruits and Vegetables
Quick pickled produce is my favorite fast way to brighten up any meal. A short soak in vinegar and spices turns plain fruit or veggies into something tangy and bold, ideal for tossing onto wraps, grain bowls, or sandwiches. It’s a great trick for using up odds and ends from the fridge and I rely on this easy prep when I want something zippy without cooking a thing.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Fruits and Vegetables
Bacon and Cheddar Biscuits
These cheesy bacon biscuits are a warm, savory bake I reach for when I need something delicious but low-effort. Made with coconut flour, they’re fluffy inside and full of smoky flavor thanks to crispy bacon and ranch seasoning. No rolling or shaping is needed, a reliable favorite that adds comfort to the table without slowing me down.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Cheddar Biscuits
Homemade Sauerkraut
When I need a crunchy, tangy contrast to a heavier meal, homemade sauerkraut is my secret weapon. It’s just cabbage and salt, but after a few days of fermentation, it totally transforms into something fresh and bold. I add it to sandwiches, sausages, or just eat it straight. It’s a low-effort, high-flavor option I come back to all season long.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Sauerkraut
Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing
This creamy coleslaw is the definition of spring and fresh. Shredded cabbage, tossed in a light, dairy-free dressing, makes for a crisp and cool side that works with almost anything. I whip it up on repeat because it takes about five minutes and always adds the perfect bite to grilled meats or lunch plates.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing
Cabbage Fritters
Cabbage fritters are crispy, flavorful, and a great change of pace from the usual veggie sides. Spiced with curry and served with a cooling yogurt dip, they’re just as good warm or at room temp. I love making these on hectic days when I want something warm and filling but still light enough to feel seasonal.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Fritters
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This cauliflower mac and cheese gives me all the creamy comfort without the weight of a full pasta bake. It’s cheesy, indulgent, and ready in about 15 minutes, using just pantry basics. I make it when I want something cozy and quick that doesn’t leave me feeling sluggish, this one’s in heavy rotation when I need an easy, lighter option.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are one of the easiest sides I keep in my kitchen toolkit especially on spring season. A quick roast brings out their natural sweetness, and the honey-butter-garlic combo makes them feel a little fancy without the effort. I make them often because they just work with everything.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Carrots
Buttermilk Drop Biscuits
Buttermilk drop biscuits are my go-to when I want fresh, homemade bread without the fuss and minimal mess. They bake up golden, fluffy, and reliably delicious every time, perfect with soup or salad, but honestly, I’d happily eat them with just about anything. As the seasons change, this easy-bake favorite always finds its way back to the table.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Drop Biscuits
