Quick Meal & Side Dishes
Just because a dish is quick and easy doesn’t mean it has to be unhealthy and loaded with tons of preservatives. That’s why we’ve curated a collection of healthy sides and meal kits to have on-hand for when the week gets a little hectic. From quick-cooking rice to quinoa to exotic cuisines to enjoy in your very own kitchen, here’s what you need to simplify your next meal.
Super Simple Sides
If your main dish is a bit labor intensive, don’t let the thought of sides overwhelm you. Try these easy recipes for rounding out your meal:
- Roast veggies (like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or potatoes) with just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Combine chunky salsa with rice and top with shredded cheese.
- Sautée a few handfuls of spinach with chopped garlic and olive oil.
- Marinate mushrooms and artichokes in fresh tarragon, thyme, garlic, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.
Top Quick Meal & Side Dish Brands
These go-to brands are known for getting dinner on the table in no time.
Lundberg Family Farms
Due in part to a legacy of family farming, Lundberg Farms’ selection includes a wide variety of pantry essentials (like rice, quinoa, chips, and other snacks). The earth-conscious, Certified Organic brand also ensures every product is ethically sourced and sustainably grown.
Thai Kitchen
Thai Kitchen delivers the authentic Thai flavors and textures for which the cuisine is known through a variety of sauces, renowned coconut milk, and convenient meal kits—all of which are sustainably sourced and crafted without preservatives.
Annie’s
Perhaps most popular for its coveted line of mac and cheese and kid-friendly snacks, Annie’s is also non-GMO and organic, making it a no-brainer for many parents. In fact, the brand has been around for 30 years and continues to offer organic essentials at affordable prices.
Best Quick Meal & Side Dishes
These meal enhancements are just as delicious as they are convenient.
The Jackfruit Company Jackfruit Meal Southwest
Give your next dish a plant-based, Tex-Mex spin with tender, ethically sourced jackfruit mixed with black beans, corn, and spices. Just heat in the microwave or on the stove, and you’ve got everything you need for a hearty meal.
Seeds of Change Microwavable Organic Brown Basmati Rice
Certified Organic brown rice that’s ready in just 90 seconds? Yes, please! This long-grain rice goes great with just about any dish, from fish to stew to stir-fry.
Organic Quick Meal & Side Dishes
Stock up on these organically sourced staples.
Near East Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil Couscous Mix
A side that cooks in just five minutes, this savory couscous is made with wholesome, certified Kosher ingredients, including pre-cooked semolina, olive oil, onions, garlic, and parsley. Plus, each serving offers 7g of protein and 2g of dietary fiber.
Annie's Organic Cheesy Ravioli
Serve up a hot meal in a pinch with organic pasta shells filled with cheese and coated in an organic tomato sauce (and packaged in a BPA-free can). Just microwave for under two minutes and enjoy.
Gluten-Free Quick Meal & Side Dishes
These premium selections bring bold flavor (and zero gluten).
Kitchen & Love Cauliflower Quick Meals, Indian Vegetable Curry
This totally vegan, warming meal brings together freshly prepared vegetables in a rich and aromatic Indian curry sauce for a balanced dish you can enjoy in seconds.
Lundberg Farms Organic Whole Grain Rice & Black Beans
Inspired by Cuban rice and beans, this expertly seasoned rice kit serves as the perfect foundation for sausage, tofu, veggies, and more.
Pad Thai Noodle Kit
Got a taste for Thai? Skip the takeout and whip up the authentic dish at home thanks to this genius meal kit of gluten-free stir-fry rice noodles and authentic Pad Thai sauce. Just add meat and/or veggies of your choosing!
Side Dish Recipes
Want more? Dig into the Thrive Market blog!
Grilled Corn With Chipotle-Lime Mayo
If you like grilled Mexican street corn, you’ll love this zesty side that includes an avocado oil-based mayo, crumbly feta cheese, and a heaping amount of lime and cilantro.
Tri-Colored Quinoa Salad
With tons of texture and lots of color, this tri-colored quinoa dish is a welcome addition to any table thanks to ribbons of zucchini, cilantro, dried cranberries, and crunchy almonds.
Brussels Sprout Slaw
This crunchy salad combo pairs shaved Brussels sprouts with vibrant radicchio, dried cherries, and mixed seeds. Top with shaved parmesan and a drizzle of an apple cider vinegar and honey dressing.