Discover our best Christmas sides that make hosting a festive feast a breeze
Have your mains sorted but at a loss with your side dishes? We’ve got you. Bring festive joy to your holiday meals with an array of these easy, quick and/or budget-friendly Christmas sides that cater to every preference and palate. Whether you're after a pairing for classic Christmas ham, seeking lighter options, or accommodating dietary needs, there’s something for everyone.
From time-honoured traditions to contemporary twists, you'll find the perfect Christmas dinner or lunch sides that will save you time and effort in the kitchen.
01
Rockmelon and burrata salad
Full of flavour and texture, rockmelon, burrata, prosciutto and basil make an easy summer salad. This minimal fuss recipe works well with any Christmas main. No burrata? No problem! Use fresh mozzarella or bocconcini instead.
02
Roasted Brussels sprouts salad with whipped feta
With whipped feta as the perfect accompaniment, this easy-to-prep roasted Brussels sprouts salad will add satisfying flavour and crunch to any festive spread. Not keen on pomegranate? Try adding some roasted pitted cherries to this dish instead.
03
Make-ahead traybake stuffing
Is Christmas prep making you stressed? Get organised in advance with this make-ahead recipe. You can freeze this stuffing – made in one tray, with sage, bacon, brown onion, garlic and rosemary – for up to one month, making the holiday season that little bit easier.
04
Mojito and watermelon salad
Inspired by the zesty, lime-packed beverage, this salad is packed with crunchy cucumber, radish, feta and mint alongside juicy fresh watermelon. Need a non-alcoholic version? Simply omit white rum and replace it with white wine vinegar or white balsamic.
05
White bean and tomato salad
This no-fuss bean and tomato salad makes a refreshing, tangy companion to grilled meat or fish at Christmas, a summer barbecue or dinner party. And it’s easy on the wallet too, coming in at $1.51 per serve.
06
Crispy potato bake
This moreish potato bake (which costs only $1.28 per serve) is irresistibly crispy on top and creamy underneath. It pairs fabulously with roast meat, making it a reliable staple for your festive gatherings.
07
Peach salad with whipped ricotta and mustard dressing
Creamy whipped ricotta, juicy peaches, fresh herbs and a zesty mustard dressing make this super-easy salad perfect for an alfresco Christmas meal. It’s a great addition to lamb or smoked meats and comes in at just $1.84 per serve.
08
Melon and bocconcini wreath
Give your Christmas spread a lighter twist with this no-cook, fuss-free summertime wreath, marrying bocconcini, melon and cherry tomatoes. The shape is fun, the flavours are fresh, and it costs just $1.84 per serve.
09
Salt and vinegar roast potatoes
Jazz up your crispy, golden spuds with this easy-to-follow recipe for salt and vinegar roast potatoes, using minimal ingredients. Each bite delivers a big crunch and amazing, tangy flavour, pleasing your guests for only $1.44 per person.
10
Honey-glazed carrots
Sweet and tender, these fuss-free honey-glazed carrots are a traditional side that brings warmth and colour to your Christmas dinner table. Pair with your favourite roast meats and baked veggies.
11
Ombre vegetable gratin
This golden-brown tart with layers of colourful vegetables in an ombre pattern belongs on any festive table. To cut down on cooking time and make entertaining that bit easier, prepare veggies the night before and store in an airtight container in the fridge until required.
12
Easy mashed potatoes
Looking for the best mashed potatoes for your holiday spread? Follow this easy recipe for smooth and creamy mashed potatoes every time. Dollop generously with your roasted meats and fish for a creamy accompaniment.
13
Crispy sage potatoes
Duck fat is the secret to these perfectly crisp, beautifully golden baked potato slices with crispy sage leaves. With just three ingredients, this moreish side is set to become a favourite at any Christmas gathering.
14
Tomato and green bean salad with mustard vinaigrette
Fresh and vibrant, this tomato and green bean salad dressed in a tangy mustard vinaigrette brings a lighter option to your Christmas sides. It’s the perfect co-star to any main dish.
15
Roasted pumpkin with kale pesto
Move over baked potatoes - this roasted pumpkin side is here to steal the show. Sneak the goodness of kale into this make-ahead pesto and spoon over wedges of velvety, sweet roasted pumpkin, chickpeas and quinoa. Seconds please!
16
Christmas stuffing tart
Love turkey stuffing? Then this tart is for you. Flaky pastry, juicy cranberries, toasted sourdough, walnuts and bacon come together for a sweet yet savoury side. This innovative side dish adds a touch of elegance to your holiday table.
17
Thyme and crispy polenta-coated potatoes
The secret to these crispy roast potatoes? Roughed-up edges and a dusting of polenta before the spuds go into a hot oven. Don’t be surprised if these crunchy potatoes become a crowd favourite that you’ll want to dish up more than once a year.
18
Parmesan-crusted zucchini
Make veggies extra tasty this Christmas and coat zucchini slices in parmesan before baking - the roasted cheese adds that extra level of crunch and flavour. Drizzled with honey, this mouth-watering yet simple side dish won't disappoint.
19
French onion potato bake
What do you get when you cross French onion flavours with potato bake? Your new favourite side! This sweet, salty dish is a five-ingredient, set-and-forget favourite. The perfect addition to your traditional Christmas dinner, this recipe marries perfectly with roast turkey and pork.
20
Grilled maple carrots with chilli goat cheese
Wow your guests with these caramelised maple carrots served with creamy chilli goat cheese, pecans and parsley. This easy, barbecued side dish will bring great flavour and texture to any festive spread. No Dutch carrots at hand? Baby or large carrots cut in half can be used in place, just vary the cooking time to suit.
21
Tabouli
Light and herby, tabouli is an excellent choice for a refreshing, easy side, adding a burst of freshness to your Christmas table. Serve with roast lamb or salmon for a Middle Eastern zing.
22
Potato salad with pickled red onion and herbs
This tangy potato salad features pickled red onion, punchy capers, a creamy yoghurt dressing and herbs, making it a clever twist on a classic and a standout addition to your summer Christmas menu.
23
Layered rainbow pasta salad
This salad looks as good as it tastes, with corn, spinach, peas, piquillo peppers and pasta shells. Serve it in a clear trifle dish so that your party has an eye-catching centrepiece (and all for $1.48 per serve!).
24
Spiced rice-stuffed onions
These easy to make, flavour-packed onions – stuffed with basmati rice infused with spices, fruit and pistachios – will instantly elevate any festive spread without too much fuss or prep. Entertaining is easy with this clever side!
25
Maple-glazed carrot and sprouts
Packed with hearty roast vegetables and topped with crunchy pine nuts and tangy cranberries, these maple-glazed carrots and sprouts will add colour and crunch to your Christmas spread — and with just a few ingredients. Ideal with roast turkey or pork.
26
Pesto star bread
This pesto star bread, with layers of parmesan and basil pesto, is not just a side but a star attraction on your Christmas table. Perfect for tearing and sharing, this gorgeous pull-apart is sure to impress as a starter or a side for only $1.88 per serve.
27
Sweet potato parmesan stack
Elevate your sides with these sweet potato parmesan stacks, offering layers of flavour and a delightful combination of textures. They're a sophisticated yet simple addition to your festive menu. Not keen on parmesan? Try this herb and garlic version.
28
Roasted sweet potato and quinoa salad
Zingy dukkah and tangy feta are the perfect toppings for caramelised sweet potato. Add this side to your Christmas dinner for a pop of colour and punchy flavour.
29
Layered vegetable bake
A colourful layered vegetable bake is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your Christmas meal, offering a lighter and tasty side. Packed with zucchini, pumpkin, mushrooms and sweet potato, this dish can also be served as a vegetarian main.
30
Loaded sour cream potatoes
Dress up baked potatoes with a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of zingy mustard and caper vinaigrette. These tasty morsels are a definite crowd-pleaser, offering a creamy and indulgent side that pairs well with fish dishes.
31
Air-fryer corn ribs
Looking for an easy yet impressive air-fryer recipe? Try these juicy, air-fried corn ribs with feta and sriracha sour cream for a scrumptious side. Perfect for adding a fun and flavoursome element to your festive spread.
32
Mashed potato with olive oil and chives
Creamy mashed potatoes loaded with flavour from punchy Dijon mustard and chives. With olive oil for extra silkiness, this tasty potato mash won't last long on your festive table.
33
Roasted asparagus with hazelnut pangrattato
Take asparagus to the next level with a topping of hazelnut pangrattato for a moreish crunch. What’s pangrattato? Italian-style breadcrumbs, traditionally used to replace parmesan. Try this sophisticated side for your Christmas feast or this version with prosciutto.
34
Apple slaw with walnut praline
Unleash layers of flavour at festive gatherings with this refreshing apple slaw. Juicy apple slices, cabbage, fennel, snow peas and pea shoots are drizzled in a tangy orange and mustard dressing and topped with walnut praline. Short on time? Use maple-roasted cashews instead of creating your own walnut praline for a quick hack.
35
Roast cabbage steaks with tahini dressing
Get innovative with cabbage with this tasty vegetarian recipe. Top roast cabbage steaks with a tahini dressing, pomegranate and dukkah for the ultimate festive side. Or try these green cabbage wedges with lemon, garlic and herbs.
36
Marinated artichokes
Learn how to prepare and marinate globe artichokes from scratch with this simple yet elegant recipe. The result? A simple yet elegant, marinated artichokes are a tangy Mediterranean addition to your festive table, offering a unique flavour profile. Perfect with roasted meats and grilled seafood.
37
Herb hasselback potatoes
After an easy yet impressive baked potato recipe? These golden hasselback potatoes act as the perfect side to your Christmas spread. Serve topped with parmesan and dollops of creamy Greek-style yoghurt.
38
Pickled apple and fennel salad
Ready in 15 minutes, this apple and fennel salad is drizzled with buttermilk dressing and topped with maple pecans. The salad’s creamy flavours and crunchy texture provide a refreshing cleanse to the palate, making it a perfect side to complement and cut through richer Christmas dishes.
39
Air-fryer piña colada salad
Bring a taste of the tropics to your salad bowl! This zesty salad features crunchy air-fried pineapple on a bed of bright veggies, topped with a creamy coconut-lime dressing – for just $2.02 per serve.
40
Kale and parmesan bread
Impress your guests and make this cheesy pull-apart loaf that’s infused with homemade kale pesto. There'll be no going back to plain bread after this. It’s perfect for soaking up gravies and sauces or enjoyed warm with lashings of butter.
41
Grilled sourdough panzanella
Ready in under 30 minutes, make the most of summer tomatoes with this simple salad recipe combining charred sourdough bread with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. It will make for the perfect side at your festive alfresco feast.
42
Potato rolls
Soft and irresistibly fluffy, these rolls are a comforting addition to your holiday meal. Perfect for pairing with any Christmas main, they are ideal for gathering up every last morsel on your plate. Serve with lashings of herb butter.
43
Garlic butter roasted mushrooms
Indulge in the rich and earthy flavours of this easy-to-make side. The dish marries the deep umami of mushrooms with aromatic garlic and rich butter, creating a sumptuous accompaniment that's ideal for enhancing the heartiness of any Christmas feast.
44
Potato roses with prosciutto and thyme
Take your Christmas spread up a notch with these exquisite potato roses, delicately wrapped with prosciutto and infused with thyme. This dish not only adds an artistic touch to your table but also offers a taste sensation. Impress your guests like never before!