Pot roast, a classic comfort dish that graces our tables during family gatherings and Sunday dinners, is often surrounded by the usual suspects—mashed potatoes, green beans, maybe some rolls. While these traditional sides have earned their spot on the plate, they aren’t always the healthiest choices, especially for those of us on a weight-watching journey.
It’s easy to feel you have limited options, but the truth is, there’s a whole world of delicious, health-conscious sides that can enhance your pot roast experience without derailing your dietary goals.
Variety isn’t just the spice of life, it’s a key component in sustaining a balanced diet. This list of 25 healthy side dishes will inspire you to shake up your pot roast routine, delighting your taste buds and treating your body right at the same time.
1. Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese
This recipe brings out the iconic flavors of Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese with a healthier twist! This version boasts a blend of parmesan and romano cheeses, crafted using a classic roux method for a seamless sauce. The secret? Overcooking the macaroni to prevent cheese sauce absorption, delivering an authentic Chick-fil-A experience. It’s a hearty side with 11 WW points per serving, making it an occasional treat. Ready in just 30 minutes, this lightened-up comfort classic is satisfying and compatible with mindful eating.
2. Simple Air Fryer Asparagus
In just 7 minutes, transform humble asparagus into a side dish sensation. This method guarantees tender asparagus stalks with an enticing touch of crisp. Elevate the natural flavors with a zesty sauce, lime juice, oil, and Parmesan cheese blend. Prepping is a breeze – just rinse, trim, brush, and fry. The result? A plate-worthy presentation that belies its effortless preparation. With asparagus as a fiber-packed powerhouse and the taste of Parmesan, this dish promises both health and hedonism in each bite.
3. Sweet Corn salad
This dish is a delightful blend of flavors, featuring sweet corn paired with either bacon crumbles or ham and enriched with a creamy ranch dressing (homemade recommended for fewer WW points). At just 1 WW point per serving, you can customize with extra veggies like cucumbers or peppers. Perfect for gatherings with family and friends, and for sitting on the side of pot roasts!
4. Healthy Cornbread
Who says cornbread can’t be both tasty and health-friendly? This version balances cornmeal and flour to achieve that signature crumbly texture, sweetened with honey and a smidge of brown sugar. Unlike traditional recipes laden with sugar, butter, and full-fat milk, this version trims down unnecessary calories without sacrificing taste. Clocking in at only 100 calories per serving, it’s a treat even diabetics can embrace. Craving that buttery finish? Opt for spray butter, or light whipped margarine to keep it light, tasty, and wholesome.
5. Air Fryer Green Bean Fries
Craving the irresistibly crispy green bean fries from Fridays but keeping an eye on your waistline? Dive into this updated version that captures all the crunch without the caloric toll. Using whole-wheat flour, egg whites, and Panko bread crumbs, these fries achieve a golden, satisfying crunch, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Not only are they lighter in calories and fat, but they’re also packed with essential vitamins from green beans. Quick to whip up and requiring just a handful of ingredients, this dish is a delightful way to amp up your veggie intake while indulging in a guilt-free treat.
6. Herb & Garlic Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potatoes into a gourmet experience with this herb and garlic cheesy version. Smooth, creamy, and rich in flavor, these potatoes blend the aromatic appeal of herbs and garlic with the decadence of cheese. At just 4 WW points per serving, they’re a guilt-free indulgence. While the recipe suggests 1% milk and herb & garlic cream cheese, it’s versatile enough to accommodate your preferences, from different milk types to various cheeses. Experiment with seasonings and enjoy this velvety side dish with your pot roast.
7. Creamy Cucumber Salad
With just 10 minutes of prep, this Creamy Cucumber Salad is a hit for any occasion. At a mere 40 calories, it’s refreshing and weight-watcher-friendly. Its versatile nature means it complements summer grills and winter comfort foods— and obviously, it is the perfect side for a pot roast.
8. Broccoli Salad
Bring vibrancy to your pot roast with this Broccoli Salad. Retaining all the traditional flavors with a lighter touch, it’s the perfect balance of health and taste. While bacon adds a savory depth, vegetarians can easily opt out without compromising flavor. Fresh broccoli is key to avoiding a soggy salad. On a WW journey? Opt for packaged crumbled bacon bits for a point-friendly choice. Swap almond slices for any nut you like, or omit raisins if allergies persist. And while cheddar is recommended, feel free to let your cheesy imaginations run wild.
9. Garlic Cheddar Biscuits
Craving that homemade biscuit charm? Dive into these Garlic Cheddar Biscuits. Made with light butter spread to keep the calorie count in check, they are an ideal accompaniment to any dish. Ensure cold butter for the perfect melt-in-mouth texture, and opt for buttermilk for authenticity. You can make it with the classic cheddar or experiment with other cheeses. Adjust garlic and spices to taste and enjoy every bite’s perfection!
10. Homemade Potato Cakes
Craving those Arby’s Potato Cakes? No need to worry about them being discontinued when you can recreate a healthier version at home! Not only do these homemade potato cakes capture the essence of the original, but they also cut down significantly on the fat content. With just 9 grams of fat for three cakes compared to Arby’s 21 grams, you can indulge without the guilt. The flavors of bacon and garlic harmonize with the crispy potato exterior, making them a surefire hit.
11. Easy Ranch Potatoes
Contrary to popular belief, potatoes, with their high-fiber carbs, are a power-packed source of energy, vitamin C, and potassium. Their starch even acts as a probiotic, boosting gut health. Baking the potatoes ensures you benefit from a healthier fat source, especially when opting for olive oil. With the inclusion of light cheese, enjoy the calcium perks without jeopardizing your calorie count. This dish strikes the perfect balance between taste and nutrition.
12. Easy Air Fryer Root Vegetables
Air fryers elevate root vegetables, from beets to parsnips, into crispy, nutrient-rich delights. This method uses hot air circulation to ensure a healthier, low-oil dish that retains natural flavors. It’s faster than traditional cooking, making it perfect for those on the go. With just 5 WW points, it’s a guilt-free, versatile treat.
13. Easiest Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Air frying sweet potatoes ensures a crispy outside with a tender inside, all while using minimal oil. This method locks in natural flavors and nutrients, making it healthier. These cubes are nutritious, packed with vitamins A and C, and versatile, fitting into various dishes. At 6 WW points with a zesty sauce (which can be skipped to save points), it’s a delightful addition to any meal and a perfect pairing for pot roasts.
14. Sweet and Spicy Roasted Butternut Squash
Perfect for serving next to a pot roast or any festive dinner, this side dish is simple to prepare and low in WW points. The hint of sweetness from brown sugar paired with olive oil creates a delightful taste. For a point-saving alternative, swap olive oil with cooking spray, adjusting the WW points accordingly.
15. Parmesan Pesto Roasted Potatoes
Roasting potatoes is a classic go-to, but this parmesan pesto variant elevates the humble spud to new heights. Set your oven to 400°F and be rewarded with crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside potatoes bursting with pesto goodness. Simplify the process using a bag of tricolored baby potatoes – their thin skins ensure quick crisping. This parmesan pesto combo is a must-try for a delightful twist on traditional roasted potatoes.
16. Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Elevate your meal with this quick side dish! Toss mushrooms in a rich garlic butter sauce with hints of lemon and herbs, then roast on a single sheet pan at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Minimal effort, maximum flavor, and easy cleanup. A perfect addition to any dinner!
17. Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes
A game-changer for potato lovers! Start by boiling diced Yukon gold potatoes, then roast them to crispy perfection. The secret? A luscious bacon and honey glaze that provides a burst of sweet and savory flavors. These potatoes are a dairy-free delight and versatile, perfect for complementing dishes like pot roasts. For the best results, ensure even roasting by cutting potatoes uniformly and laying them in a single layer. Add parsley or thyme for an aromatic finish.
18. Cinnamon Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
The blend of warm cinnamon, fragrant rosemary, and the natural sweetness of yams creates a symphony of flavors. These sweet potatoes are enhanced with either olive or avocado oil. Seasoned with a dash of salt to balance the flavors, ensure the best roasting results by avoiding overcrowding. For that extra crisp, consider adding arrowroot or cornstarch. This cozy dish will fill your home with an irresistible aroma and please any palate.
19. Creamy Vegetable Casserole
Brimming with broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots enveloped in a cheese sauce, this is a dish that warms the soul. The crunchy breadcrumb topping offers a contrast to the tender veggies beneath. Perfect as a side for a pot roast, this casserole transforms everyday vegetables into a culinary masterpiece. It’s a deliciously easy way to satisfy vegetarians and those craving homestyle comfort.
20. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomato and Balsamic
Succulent asparagus, coated with olive oil and sprinkled with shavings of Parmesan cheese, pairs beautifully with the tangy bite of cherry tomatoes. The magic happens as they roast together, letting the tomatoes’ natural sweetness complement the asparagus. It’s a blend of flavors with hints of fresh garlic and basil. And for the grand finale? A drizzle of balsamic reduction to tie it all together. Quick, elegant, and sure to impress!
21. Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Roasted to caramelized perfection, these Brussels sprouts balance a crisp exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth core. The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar compensates for the bitterness of Brussels sprouts and offers a sweet-tangy flavor. Seasoned with a kick of red chili flakes and the depth of Dijon and finished with a zest of lemon and freshness of green onions, this side dish transforms Brussels sprouts from ordinary to extraordinary.
22. Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots
This simple yet flavorful recipe pairs the earthy sweetness of carrots with a glaze crafted from garlic, butter, and honey. As the carrots roast, they absorb the essence of this blend, resulting in a tender, succulent, and flavorful dish. With a mere 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a side dish that shines in its simplicity and taste, equally suited for grand feasts or a humble dinner.
23. Zucchini Gratin
Heighten the flavors and textures of zucchini and yellow squash in this simple gratin. Sauté onion and garlic in butter, add cream and Parmesan, then mix with sliced squash. Top with smoked Gouda and bake until bubbly. This dish transforms humble veggies into a creamy, cheesy delight, perfect for pot roasts, weeknights, or special occasions.
24. Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad
Crisp apples, tangy dried cranberries, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts come together in a vibrant mix, contrasting the fatty and hefty flavors of a pot roast. Paired with a zesty apple dressing, it’s the perfect light accompaniment to hearty meals. Quick to prepare, it’s an effortless way to add a splash of nutrition and color to your table.
25. Roasted Squash, Caramelized Fig, and Feta Salad
This is an outstanding salad showcasing buttery kabocha squash and figs, both roasted to perfection with a touch of honey for that caramelized zest. Paired with the sharp tang of feta and a hint of pomegranate, this dish brings a medley of flavors to your plate. Drizzle with a citrusy cider vinaigrette infused with orange zest and fresh thyme for that extra kick—ideal as a side for pot roasts.
