14 Easy 5-Ingredient Sides for Any Night of the Week

Whether you’re cooking a weeknight meal for your family or hosting friends for a dinner party, you’re probably going to need a few sides to round out the menu. And, if you’re focusing on an impressive main dish, it never hurts to keep things simple when it comes to the rest of the meal. But, that doesn’t mean that you have to cut corners or skimp on flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, a little time and these recipes, whipping up crowd-pleasing side dishes has never been easier.

This simple side is ideal in a pinch, since it takes only about 5 minutes to boil green beans until they're crisp-tender. Lemon zest adds bright flavor and color, and don't forget the almonds, which lend a nutty crunch.

Cooking this recipe all in one pot eliminates the need for making a separate flour-thickened sauce. Instead, it relies on starchy pasta water as the base. Make sure to simmer the pasta only until very al dente since it will continue to cook as you add the cheese. Stirring in the grated cheese off of the heat will help prevent it from clumping or seizing in the sauce. While the mac and cheese might seem very saucy before it’s baked, it thickens quickly in the oven.

Rosemary, garlic and grated Parm (or Pecorino) transform basic white potatoes into a rustic, hearty side.