These 17 side dishes are classics that have stood the test of time because they’re simply delicious. These aren’t fancy, fussy creations; they’re comfort food, made with love and simple ingredients.
Amish Potato Salad
Amish Potato Salad brings back the cherished flavors of your grandparents’ cookouts, with its creamy texture and a tangy kick from mustard and celery seed. It’s a comforting side that’s perfect for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad
Cherry Salad
Cherry Salad, a nostalgic dish often seen at family reunions, combines a handful of ingredients to create a refreshing side that’s been enjoyed for generations. Its simplicity and quick prep make it a go-to classic.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad
Refrigerator Pickled Beets
Refrigerator Pickled Beets capture the essence of summer in a jar, offering a sweet and tangy addition to salads. These quick-pickled beets are a vibrant nod to the time-honored preservation methods cherished by past generations.
Get the Recipe: Refrigerator Pickled Beets
Salt Potatoes
Salt Potatoes, a regional favorite, are a timeless side dish that boasts a creamy interior with a hint of butter. This simple recipe has been passed down through the years, gracing dinner tables with its straightforward charm.
Get the Recipe: Salt Potatoes
Pea Salad
The classic Pea Salad, with its mix of creaminess and sweetness, is a side dish that has been relished at countless family functions. Its make-ahead convenience helps it remain a beloved tradition.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad
Cowboy Caviar
Cowboy Caviar is a colorful medley of beans and vegetables, dressed in a sweet and tangy sauce. This cherished recipe has graced family tables for decades, offering a fresh and hearty side that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar
Watergate Salad
Watergate Salad, known for its fluffy pistachio goodness, is easy to make and serves as a sweet reminder of the effortless sides our grandparents adored. It is a welcome addition to any family meal.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad
Amish Butter Noodles
Amish Butter Noodles, with just four ingredients, are a testament to the simple, rich flavors enjoyed in times past. This dish is a comforting staple that’s both kid-friendly and perfect for a busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Amish Butter Noodles
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a classic that has stood the test of time. This side dish is all about family traditions, and deserves to be made more often than just at Thanksgiving!
Get the Recipe: Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles
Quick and simple to prepare, Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles are a sweet and tangy treat that bring back memories of summer days in your grandparents’ kitchens. They’re the perfect addition to any sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles
Utica Greens
Utica Greens, a dish steeped in Italian-American heritage, combines escarole with hot peppers and garlic. It is a side that has been savored through the generations for its robust and comforting flavors.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens
Lime Jello Salad
Lime Jello Salad is a whimsical green salad that has been a family favorite for decades. Its jiggly fun and fruity flavor make it a playful addition to any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad
Peanut Butter Bread
Peanut Butter Bread is an easy-to-make alternative to traditional quick breads and has been enjoyed as a simple, satisfying treat for generations. It’s a no-yeast bread that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Bread
Dilly Beans
Dilly Beans are a crunchy, tangy treat that brings back the refrigerator pickling traditions of our grandparents. These pickled delights are a timeless side dish that adds a punch of flavor to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Dilly Beans
Amish Macaroni Salad
Amish Macaroni Salad is a creamy, sweet side that’s been a staple at family gatherings for generations. It’s a simple yet delicious side dish that always draws a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad
Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish
Deviled Eggs are a classic side that features the subtle tang of pickles. They’ve been a staple at social events for generations, turning any appetizer spread into a nostalgic treat.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish
Five Ingredient Banana Bread
This Five Ingredient Banana Bread is a moist and hearty bread that harkens back to simpler times. Its ease of preparation and wholesome ingredients make it a timeless treat that’s been enjoyed by families for generations.
Get the Recipe: Five Ingredient Banana Bread