35 Healthy Sides for Pork Chops
With so many pork chops sides to choose from, it can be hard to decide what to serve with pork chops.
But don’t worry, I’m here to help!
I’ve rounded up 35 of the best healthy sides for pork chops.
Whether you are looking for a simple side dish or something a little more elaborate, there is sure to be something on this list that you’ll love.
So go ahead and give one (or all!) of these sides a try the next time you make pork chops!
35 Healthy Sides for Pork Chops
Personally, I know I don’t eat enough vegetables.
I’m always trying to find ways to incorporate them into my diet, and one way I do that is by making sure I have a healthy side dish with my pork chops.
Not only does it make me feel better about my meal, but it also means I’m getting some extra nutrients and fiber.
There are so many delicious and healthy side dishes you can serve with pork chops.
Here are 35 of my favorites:
Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/526639750186367056/
I LOVE crispy baked zucchini chips!
They are the perfect healthy snack or side dish, and they are so easy to make.
All you need is a little zucchini, some olive oil, and your favorite seasonings.
I like to keep things simple with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, but you can really use any seasoning you like.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to jazz up these crispy baked zucchini chips:
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking for extra flavor.
- Try using different seasonings like chili powder, Italian herbs, or Cajun seasoning.
- Dip them in your favorite sauce after they come out of the oven. My personal favorites are ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or ketchup.
Easy Ranch Roasted Carrots
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/247205467036636877/
Carrots not only add color and flavor to this dish, but they are also a good source of vitamins.
These roasted carrots are tossed in a simple ranch seasoning, then roasted to perfection.
You can use any type of carrot you like for this recipe, but I prefer the sweetness of baby carrots.
Here are a few ways to jazz things up:
- Add some spice with a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.
- Make it cheesy with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Healthy Roasted Canned Green Beans With Parmesan & Garlic
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/718887159282849523/
I love how parmesan and garlic elevate simple green beans to something really special.
This is a healthy, flavorful side dish that goes well with just about anything.
And it couldn’t be easier to make!
Here are a few of my favorite ways to jazz things up:
- Add some crispy bacon for extra flavor.
- Toss the green beans with some cooked pasta for a heartier dish.
- Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or Kalamata olives for extra zing.
Related Post: Pasta Side Dishes for Pork Chops
Healthy Butternut Squash Casserole (Vegan)
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/258534834852578327/
If you’re in need of a vegan-friendly side dish that’s healthy and delicious, look no further than this butternut squash casserole.
Butternut squash is roasted until tender then mixed with a creamy vegan sauce and topped with crunchy bread crumbs.
It’s the perfect side to any fall meal!
Here are a few ways to change things up:
- Add some spice with a teaspoon of sriracha or a diced jalapeño.
- Make it cheesy with a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan on top.
- Mix in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes Carrots and Zucchini
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/467881848801179022/
Herby, garlicky, and so full of flavor, these roasted potatoes are the perfect side dish to any meal.
And they’re healthy, too!
I love to make a big batch of these on Sundays and then enjoy them throughout the week.
They’re great as is, or you can mix things up by adding other vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or squash.
Here are a few more ideas for how to jazz up this dish:
- Add some spice with a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Make it cheesy by sprinkling on some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese.
- Add a touch of sweetness with a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
Related Post: Potato Side Dishes for Pork Chops
Creamy Cauliflower Au Gratin
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/24629129204097699/
If you like your side dish on the creamy and cheesy side, this cauliflower au gratin is for you.
It’s made with a simple cheese sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
You can easily make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
Here are a few ways to jazz things up:
- Add some spice with a teaspoon of sriracha or a diced jalapeño.
- Make it extra cheesy by stirring in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
- Mix in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
Roasted Frozen Broccoli Recipe
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/67131850688127215/
If you have a bag (or two) of frozen broccoli in your freezer, this is the perfect recipe for you.
This simple, healthy side dish comes together in just a few minutes and only requires a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
I like to keep things simple and just season my broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, but feel free to get creative and add your favorite seasonings.
Some of my other favorite ways to jazz up this dish are:
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese
- Toss with garlic bread crumbs
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- Mix in some diced cooked bacon
Sweet and Spicy Mexican Roasted Sweet Potatoes
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/133559945191716204/
Mexican cuisine has always had a special place in my heart.
So when I came across this recipe for sweet and spicy Mexican roasted sweet potatoes, I knew I had to try it.
These sweet potatoes are the perfect side dish to any Mexican-inspired meal.
They’re slightly sweet, with a hint of spice, and they’re roasted to perfection.
To make things even better, they can be easily jazzed up with a few simple toppings.
Try topping them with some shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.
Or, if you want to keep things healthy, just top them with a little bit of chopped cilantro.
Creamy Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/985231159820271/
I love rice side dishes for pork chops because they’re usually pretty healthy, and they’re a great way to bulk up a meal without adding a lot of calories.
This particular recipe is one of my favorites because it’s so creamy and flavorful, thanks to the garlic butter and Parmesan cheese.
If you want to make it even healthier, you can use brown rice instead of white rice.
Or, if you’re looking for a low-carb option, you could substitute cauliflower rice for the regular rice.
Here are a few other ideas for how to change up this dish:
- Add some chopped cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-special touch.
Roasted Zucchini that isn’t Soggy
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/130463720446128194/
Healthy side dishes for pork chops can sometimes be a challenge.
You want something that is packed with nutrients, but that will also complement the pork chops without being too boring.
Enter roasted zucchini.
It’s simple to make, and roasting the zucchini helps to bring out its natural sweetness.
There are a few things you can do to change up this dish and make it even more exciting:
- Try using different herbs and spices like oregano, basil, or thyme.
- Add some garlic for extra flavor.
- Top with shredded Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese.
- Mix in some diced tomatoes or olives.
Related Post: What to Serve with Chinese Pork Chops
Healthy Air Fryer Cauliflower for Pork Chops
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/513832638747129406/
Turn on your air fryer and make a delicious and healthy side dish to go with your pork chops.
This air fryer cauliflower is so easy to make, and it comes out perfectly crispy every time.
I like to keep things simple and just season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
But you could also jazz things up by tossing the cauliflower in your favorite sauce or spice blend.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to flavor air fryer cauliflower:
- Toss in some BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Mix in some buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sprinkle on some ranch seasoning for a classic flavor.
- Add some curry powder or garam masala for an Indian-inspired twist.
Pan-Fried Zucchini and Mushrooms
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/429882726943885701/
If you have a pan that’s waiting for some action, this is the recipe for you.
This veggie-packed side dish comes together in less than 15 minutes and is the perfect way to use up any summer squash or zucchini that you have on hand.
I like to keep things simple and just season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, but feel free to get creative and add in your favorite herbs or spices.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to “jazz” things up:
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Switch out the mushrooms for another type of vegetable, like diced bell peppers or eggplant.
- Stir in a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for extra protein.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of the dried herbs.
Easy White Bean Salad
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/204280533088690624/
If you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen but still want to serve a delicious and healthy meal, this easy white bean salad is perfect for you.
It comes together in just a few minutes, and can be easily customized to your liking.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to mix things up:
- Add some diced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Mix in some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or basil.
- Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
- Top with shredded Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese for extra richness.
Oven Roasted Balsamic Green Beans With Cherry Tomatoes
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/61502351153454907/
Cherry tomatoes add a special kind of freshness to this healthy, oven-roasted green beans dish.
The balsamic vinegar and garlic give it a delicious depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with pork chops or any other main course.
This dish is so simple and easy to make, but feel free to jazz things up with any of these optional add-ins:
- A handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- A diced shallot or onion
Nutritious Garlic Baked Cabbage
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/291326669651880971/
Healthy and nutritious, this garlic-baked cabbage is a delicious and easy side dish.
It’s packed with vitamins and fiber, low in calories, and can easily be made vegan or vegetarian.
This recipe is also very versatile – you can use any type of cabbage you like, swap out the garlic for other seasonings, and add in other veggies or protein to make it a complete meal.
Here are a few ways to mix things up:
- Add some spice with a teaspoon of sriracha or a diced jalapeño.
- Make it cheesy with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top.
- Mix in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-special touch.
Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts (With Garlic & Parmesan Cheese)
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/76420524919685817/
You know, smashing some Brussels sprouts is a great way to let out some aggression.
But, it also makes for a deliciously crispy side dish.
These crispy smashed Brussels sprouts are tossed with garlic and Parmesan cheese, making them the perfect side for pork chops or any other main course.
And, if you’re looking for ways to jazz things up, here are a few ideas:
- Add some bacon for extra flavor and crunch.
- Swap out the Parmesan cheese for another type of cheese, like Gruyère or cheddar.
- Stir in some diced apples or pears for sweetness and contrast.
- Toss with a balsamic glaze or vinegar for extra acidity.
Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/350647521000356790/
If you have a sweet tooth, then you’ll love these honey roasted sweet potatoes.
They’re the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and they make a great side dish for pork chops or any other protein.
To make them even more delicious, try one of these variations:
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor.
- Swap out the honey for maple syrup.
- Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping.
- Top with crumbled bacon or shredded cheese.
Parmesan Zucchini and Corn
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3025924740436197/
Zucchini and corn, when mixed together, make the perfect summer side dish.
This recipe is healthy and flavorful, and can easily be made ahead of time.
The Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty flavor and the zucchini and corn pair perfectly together.
Here are a few ways to jazz up this dish:
- Add some diced tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
- Mix in a handful of chopped fresh basil for an extra-special touch.
- Top with a sprinkle of bread crumbs before serving.
Potatoes and Green Beans
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/357332551697675060/
Healthy sides to go with pork chops don’t have to be boring.
This simple dish of potatoes and green beans is a great example.
The key to making this dish more interesting is in the seasonings.
I like to use garlic, onion, and smoked paprika for a flavor-packed punch.
And don’t be afraid to mix things up with different kinds of potatoes or other vegetables.
Here are a few ideas:
- Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
- Swap out the green beans for broccoli or Brussels sprouts.
- Add some spice with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Keto Spinach & Broccoli Cheese Casserole
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/5629568275966079/
Here’s an easy, healthy vegetable side dish that’s low carb and keto friendly.
It’s packed with nutrient-rich spinach and broccoli, and it gets a cheesy, creamy makeover with a simple cheese sauce.
This casserole is so versatile – you can easily mix in other vegetables, proteins, or seasonings to suit your taste.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to change things up:
- Add some diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-special touch.
- Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or a diced jalapeño for some spice.
Sauteed Zucchini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/70368812920305666/
If you like the taste of sun-dried tomatoes, you’re going to love this healthy and flavorful side dish.
Zucchini is sauteed with garlic and sundried tomatoes until it’s tender, then finished with a sprinkle of fresh basil for some extra flavor.
This dish is so simple, but it really packs a punch!
Here are a few ways to jazz things up:
- Add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-special touch.
Cabbage Fritters (Fried or Baked)
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/795237246718445895/
Fritters are great for dipping, so if you want to get really creative, try serving these cabbage fritters with a dipping sauce on the side.
I love them dipped in a mixture of yogurt and sriracha, but they would also be great with a honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
Here are a few other ideas for how to jazz up these fritters:
- Add some shredded cheese to the batter for cheesy fritters.
- Try using a different type of cabbage, like Brussels sprouts or kale.
- Mix in some diced apple or pear for sweetness.
- Add a teaspoon of curry powder or smoked paprika to the batter for flavor.
- Make them mini by scooping the batter into tablespoon-sized mounds instead of making larger fritters.
Roasted Parmesan Zucchini
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/450852612700985614/
Zucchini sometimes needs a little help in the flavor department, but roasting it with Parmesan and a touch of garlic takes it to a whole new level.
This dish is so healthy and flavorful, you’re going to want to make it all summer long.
Here are a few ways to jazz things up:
- Try other herbs in place of the parsley, such as basil or oregano.
- Add some spice with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make it cheesy with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella on top.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-special touch.
Pesto Roasted Brussels Sprouts
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/259871840989794516/
Pesto has a bold, flavorful taste that can really elevate a dish – and these pesto-roasted Brussels sprouts are no different.
Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, and the pesto adds a nice zesty kick.
This dish is healthy and easy to make, but it’s also impressive enough for a dinner party.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to mix things up:
- Add some diced pancetta or bacon for extra flavor.
- Mix in some shredded Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Top with a balsamic glaze or reduction for an extra-special touch.
Cilantro Lime Slaw
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/77476056081444109/
This Mexican-inspired slaw is the perfect side dish to balance out a rich entrée.
It’s light and refreshing, with a hint of lime and cilantro.
And it’s so easy to make!
Just mix together all of the ingredients in a bowl and you’re done.
Here are some ways to jazz things up:
- Add some diced avocado for creaminess.
- Swap out the lime juice for lemon juice or white vinegar.
- Add a tablespoon of honey for sweetness.
- Stir in some diced jalapeño for heat.
- Mix in a handful of chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
Easy Baked Artichoke Hearts
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/76561262407060805/
I truly mean easy when I say this recipe for baked artichoke hearts requires just a handful of ingredients and little to no prep work.
The result is a healthy, flavorful side dish that pairs well with just about anything.
I love to serve these baked artichokes with pork chops, but they would also be great alongside chicken, fish, or steak.
Here are a few ways you can change up this simple recipe:
- Add a bit of spice with some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
- Mix in some shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Stuff the artichoke hearts with a mixture of bread crumbs and shredded cheese before baking.
- Drizzle with a bit of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice before serving.
California Blend Vegetables with Parmesan Bread Crumbs
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/4855512090987337/
How about a blend of roasted vegetables tossed with Parmesan bread crumbs?
This recipe features broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower, but feel free to mix things up and use whatever veggies you have on hand.
To make things even more interesting (and delicious), top with a fried egg or some shredded cheese.
Here are a few other ideas for changing up this dish:
- Add a teaspoon of your favorite spice blend (I like Italian seasoning or garlic powder) to the bread crumbs before tossing with the veggies.
- Swap out the Parmesan for another type of cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyere.
- Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed up pork rinds to make this dish gluten-free or low-carb.
Lemon Roasted Potatoes
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/551902129340408864/
Potato side dishes for pork chops can tend to be a bit on the heavy side, but these lemon-roasted potatoes are light and flavorful.
Tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, these potatoes are roasted to perfection.
And because they’re on the lighter side, there’s plenty of room for customization.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to jazz things up:
- Add some spice with a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin.
- Make it cheesy with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top.
- Mix in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-special touch.
The Best and Easiest Cucumber Salad
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/23995810506936227/
Cucumbers don’t pack a ton of flavor on their own, but they’re the perfect vessel for all sorts of deliciousness.
In this cucumber salad recipe, I’ve used a combination of fresh dill, mint, and parsley, as well as tangy apple cider vinegar and sweet honey.
You could easily swap out the herbs for whatever you have on hand – basil would be lovely, or even cilantro if you’re a fan.
And if you want to add a little bit of heat, try stirring in a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
Here are a few more ideas for how to jazz up this cucumber salad:
- Add some chopped fruit, like grapes or berries.
- Stir in some diced avocado for creaminess.
- Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese.
- Make it into a wrap by spreading it on some flatbread or tortillas.
- Add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a protein-packed meal.
Oven Roasted Lemon Broccoli
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/640566747014957988/
Broccoli has a bad rep as being a bland, boring vegetable.
But when it’s roasted in the oven with a little bit of lemon and garlic, it becomes something special.
This recipe is so simple, but it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
And it’s a great way to get your kids (or picky eaters) to eat their broccoli!
Here are a few ways to jazz up this recipe:
- Add some red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
- Swap out the lemon for balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Mix in some shredded Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese.
- Add some chopped nuts for a little bit of crunch.
Herb and Garlic Quinoa
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/466826317638720183/
Quinoa is rich in antioxidants and a good source of protein, making it a perfect base for a healthy side dish.
This recipe is packed with flavor from the fresh herbs and garlic, but feel free to mix things up and use whatever herbs you have on hand.
You could also add in some diced veggies, cooked chicken, or shrimp to make it a more complete meal.
Here are a few other ideas for how to jazz up this dish:
- Swap out the quinoa for rice or couscous.
- Add in some diced tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Stir in a tablespoon of pesto or sun-dried tomato paste for extra flavor.
Loaded Broccoli Salad (Crisp, Creamy, and Low-Carb)
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/220606081738310460/
If you’re looking for a keto side dish for pork chops (or really any meal), look no further than this loaded broccoli salad.
It’s crisp, creamy, and low-carb, and takes less than 10 minutes to whip up.
I like to add crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese to mine, but you could also mix in diced avocado, chopped nuts, or dried fruit.
Here are a few other ways to jazz up this broccoli salad:
- Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite vinaigrette.
- Stir in a diced apple or pear for sweetness and crunch.
- Mix in a handful of cooked bacon or crumbled sausage.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or ranch dressing.
Zucchini Fries
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/484699978658320296/
Who doesn’t like fries?
They’re salty, crispy, and oh-so- addicting.
But let’s be real: they’re not exactly healthy.
Enter zucchini fries.
Zucchini is a nutrient-rich vegetable that’s low in calories and fat.
And when it’s breaded and baked until crispy, it makes the perfect healthier alternative to traditional french fries.
These zucchini fries are a great side dish to any meal, but they especially go well with pork chops.
Here are a few ways to jazz them up:
- Serve them with a dipping sauce like ketchup, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
- Add some spice with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or paprika on the breadcrumbs.
- For extra cheesy fries, top with shredded Parmesan cheese before baking.
- Make them into sliders
Low Carb Mushroom & Spinach Cauliflower Rice
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/569916527853008042/
Low-carb, healthy, tasty, and done in under 30 minutes?
Sign me up!
This delicious side dish is packed with veggies and flavor, and it’s so easy to make.
I love to add a little extra protein by stirring in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, but it’s just as good on its own.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to mix things up:
- Add some spice with a teaspoon of sriracha or a diced jalapeño.
- Make it cheesy with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top.
- Mix in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-special touch.
Healthy Mexican Street Corn Salad
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/393220611226180870/
If you’re craving Mexican food, this healthy Mexican street corn salad is the perfect side dish.
It’s packed with fresh corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing.
You can keep it simple and serve it as is, or jazz things up by adding some shredded chicken or crumbled cotija cheese on top.
For an extra-special touch, try grilling the corn before adding it to the salad.