The Best Healthy Side Dishes for Burgers 2024

Burgers are a beloved classic, but pairing them with healthy side dishes can turn a tasty meal into a nutritious one.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply enjoying a burger night at home, these healthy sides will complement your burgers perfectly, adding both flavor and nutritional balance.

1. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a delicious and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with burgers. Try a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and asparagus.

Toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, and grill until tender and slightly charred. The smoky flavor of the grilled veggies enhances the taste of your burger and provides a satisfying crunch.

2. Sweet Potato Fries

Swap out traditional fries for sweet potato fries. They’re rich in vitamins A and C and have a natural sweetness that complements the savory taste of a burger.

Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with a bit of olive oil, and season with paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Bake them in the oven until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

3. Quinoa Salad

A quinoa salad is a light and refreshing side dish that’s packed with protein and fiber. Combine cooked quinoa with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Dress with a simple lemon vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This vibrant salad adds a burst of color and a refreshing taste to your burger meal.

4. Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb alternative, try cauliflower rice. It’s easy to make and can be flavored in various ways to suit your taste.

Simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains, then sauté with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices. This light and fluffy side dish pairs well with any burger.

5. Mixed Green Salad

A mixed green salad is a classic side that never goes out of style. Use a variety of leafy greens such as spinach, arugula, and romaine, and add toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, shredded carrots, and avocado.

Dress with a light vinaigrette made from balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey. This fresh and crisp salad provides a healthy counterbalance to a hearty burger.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty and nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.

Halve the Brussels sprouts, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

7. Greek Yogurt Coleslaw

Traditional coleslaw can be heavy with mayonnaise, but a lighter version made with Greek yogurt is both healthy and delicious.

Shred cabbage and carrots and mix with Greek yogurt, a splash of apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. This creamy and tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your burger meal without the extra calories.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers make for a colorful and nutritious side dish. Cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds, then stuff with a mixture of cooked quinoa or brown rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and your favorite spices. Bake until the peppers are tender, and top with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

9. Cucumber and Tomato Salad

This simple and refreshing salad is quick to prepare and full of flavor. Slice cucumbers and tomatoes, and toss with red onion, fresh basil, olive oil, and a splash of red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This light salad adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of a burger.

10. Edamame

Edamame is a protein-packed side that’s both easy to prepare and enjoyable to eat. Simply boil or steam the edamame pods, sprinkle with sea salt, and serve.

For extra flavor, toss with a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil. This vibrant green side dish adds a pop of color and a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Enjoy a Balanced Meal

By pairing your burgers with these healthy side dishes, you can enjoy a well-rounded and nutritious meal that’s full of flavor.

These sides not only complement the taste of your burgers but also add valuable nutrients, making your burger night both delicious and wholesome.