A side dish is a food item served alongside the main course to complement and enhance the overall meal. It adds variety in texture, flavor, and nutrition, making the dining experience more enjoyable and balanced. Common side dishes include vegetables, salads, rice, potatoes, pasta, and bread. They can be simple, like steamed broccoli or mashed potatoes, or more elaborate, such as a layered pasta salad or roasted vegetable medley. Side dishes often reflect cultural traditions and can range from kimchi in Korean meals to coleslaw with American barbecue. While the main dish provides the meal’s core protein or centerpiece, the side dish adds depth, freshness, and contrast. Choosing the right side dish can elevate the entire meal by balancing flavors, offering contrast, or adding a refreshing bite. Whether served at a casual dinner or a festive gathering, side dishes play an important role in rounding out meals and satisfying different tastes and dietary needs.