Gathering with family is always a wonderful occasion, and the right side dishes can turn any meal into a feast. Imagine the aromas wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to come to the table. Let’s explore some delightful Indian side dishes that are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your loved ones!
Spicy Masala Potatoes

Masala Potatoes-Rai Wale Aloo from Feast with Safiya
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.

Aloo Masala (Spicy Potatoes) + Video from Silk Road Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 35 min Total Time: 35 min.
These little potato wonders are not just flavorful; they pack a punch! The key to the dish lies in the perfect blend of spices, which creates a warm, aromatic experience that dances on your taste buds. With a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, spicy masala potatoes are the kind of side dish that draws everyone in, making them irresistibly popular.
To whip up this deliciousness, all you need are baby potatoes, mustard seeds, turmeric, chili powder, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Boil the potatoes until tender, then sauté them with the spices, letting everything cook until the potatoes are golden and crisp. The vibrant yellow from the turmeric and the heat from the chili powder make this dish not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes!
What makes spicy masala potatoes special is their versatility. They can be enjoyed as a side with rice or roti, or even as a snack on their own. At family gatherings, they often vanish quickly, leaving everyone asking for more!
Refreshing Cucumber Raita

Cucumber Raita Recipe from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Yogurt, cucumber, green chili, chaat masala, cayenne pepper Total Time: 10 min.

Cucumber Raita from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Greek yogurt, lemon juice, fresh mint, white sugar Total Time: greek yogurt, lemon juice, fresh mint, white sugar.

Cucumber Raita | Indian Yogurt Dip from Spice Cravings
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Greek yogurt, pickling cucumbers, mint, chaat masala Total Time: greek yogurt, pickling cucumbers, mint, chaat masala.
Feeling the heat? This cooling cucumber raita is the perfect antidote! Made with creamy yogurt and fresh cucumbers, it’s a refreshing side that balances out spicy dishes, providing a soothing contrast. The crunch of the cucumber combined with the tanginess of the yogurt creates a delightful texture that will make your family’s taste buds sing.
To prepare this delightful dish, simply mix together yogurt, finely chopped cucumber, a hint of cumin, and a dash of salt. You can also add chopped mint or coriander for an extra burst of flavor. The beauty of raita lies in its simplicity; it comes together in just minutes and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cucumber raita is cherished not just for its taste but also for its health benefits. It’s a fantastic way to cool down and hydrate, making it a family favorite during hot summer gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while everyone enjoys their meal!
Mixed Vegetable Pulao

Pulao Recipe | Veg Pulao | Vegetable Pulao | Pulav from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 35 min Total Time: 35 min.

Veg Pulao Recipe (Mix Vegetable Pulav) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.

Veg Pulao Recipe | Simple & Easy Vegetable Pulav from Hebbar's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.
Imagine a colorful medley of vegetables and fragrant basmati rice, all cooked together to create a delicious dish that’s bursting with flavor. Mixed vegetable pulao is a one-pot wonder that brings together the goodness of seasonal veggies, aromatic spices, and rice – making it a wholesome addition to any meal. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will have your family asking for seconds.
To make this delightful pulao, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in ghee or oil. Add your favorite veggies like peas, carrots, and bell peppers, along with basmati rice and spices such as cardamom, cloves, and bay leaves. The magic happens when everything cooks together, infusing the rice with flavors while keeping the veggies tender yet crisp.
This dish is special because it’s not only delicious but also customizable. You can throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to clean out the fridge. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal. Serve it alongside some pickle and yogurt, and you have a feast that everyone will love!