Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics

Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics

Ina Garten's Vegetable Side Dishes That Will Steal the Show

Posted by Mardi Michels. Last Updated on November 19, 2020 by Food Network Canada Editors

Looking to add a little pizzazz to your scrumptious mains? Here are some of the coziest veggie side dishes from The Barefoot Contessa that'll have your family reaching for seconds. From cheesy gratin dishes to simple roasted favourites, Ina's got you covered this holiday season.

  • Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
     
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    Rosemary Roasted Potatoes

    <p><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/perfect-potato-side-dishes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Potatoes are the ultimate side</a> to any meal, and this accordion-style presentation is so much more elegant than the typical roasted variety. Trust us, it's totally worth the extra effort! Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/holiday-potato-casseroles/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">make-ahead potato casseroles for the holidays we're already drooling over</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rosemary-roasted-potatoes/15063/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Rosemary Roasted Potatoes</strong></a></p>
  • Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
     
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    Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

    <p>We love a dish that can serve double duty — this versatile <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-cauliflower-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cauliflower recipe</a> from Ina Garten can be served as a side dish or an appetizer. It’s also super simple to make and can be served family-style or plated individually.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/parmesan-roasted-cauliflower/20580/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Parmesan-Roasted Cauliflower</strong></a></p>
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts
     
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    Roasted Brussels Sprouts

    <p>This recipe couldn’t be any easier. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper and — after a quick roast in the oven — they come out tender and sweet with crispy, caramelized edges. They're nothing quite like those overcooked Brussels sprouts you remember from your childhood! Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/best-brussels-sprouts-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tasty and creative ways to eat more Brussels sprouts</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-brussels-sprouts/17167/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten’s Roasted Brussels Sprouts</a></strong></p>
  • Zucchini Gratin
     
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    Zucchini Gratin

    <p>Switch up your vegetable gratin and use versatile <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-and-delicious-zucchini-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">zucchini</a>. This version only requires a handful of ingredients but packs a flavour punch with its crispy crust of cheese and breadcrumbs.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-zucchini-gratin/15432/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Zucchini Gratin</strong></a></p>
  • Parmesan Roasted Asparagus With Lemon Sauce
     
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    Parmesan Roasted Asparagus With Lemon Sauce

    <p>Dress up your asparagus with a savoury sprinkle of Parmesan and a zippy lemon sauce for a simple, yet elegant dish that’s equally suited for a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/photos/ina-gartens-easy-weeknight-dinner-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">busy weeknight meal</a> as it is for a special gathering.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/parmesan-roasted-asparagus/15391/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten’s Parmesan Roasted Asparagus</a></strong></p>
  • Garlic Sautéed Spinach
     
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    Garlic Sautéed Spinach

    <p>Ease meets elegance with this simple sauteed <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/fresh-spinach-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">spinach dish</a>, both a celebration of fresh green produce and a comforting side to complement most mains. An easy way to add vegetables to any meal from a simple weeknight dinner to a get-together with company.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/garlic-sauteed-spinach/15403/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten’s Garlic Sautéed Spinach</a></strong></p>
  • Tricolore Salad With Oranges
     
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    Tricolore Salad With Oranges

    <p>"Tricolore" means three colours, which is a fitting description for this bright (in flavour and colour) side dish. Three types of lettuce, sweet navel orange rounds and salty Kalamata olives are combined with a simple apple cider vinaigrette, making it a wonderful light side dish to pair with heavier comfort food. Looking for a classic salad? Try these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/caesar-salad-recipes-for-dinner/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Caesar salad recipes that will be the star of your dinner plate</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tricolore-salad-with-oranges/22370/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten's Tricolore Salad With Oranges</a></strong></p>
  • Potato Latkes
     
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    Potato Latkes

    <p>These classic crispy potato bites from Ina Garten require minimal ingredients and take only 20 minutes to make. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/18-delicious-recipes-for-a-happy-hanukkah/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recipes for a happy Hanukkah</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/potato-latkes/17331/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Potato Latkes</strong></a></p>
  • Balsamic Roasted Beet Salad
     
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    Balsamic Roasted Beet Salad

    <p>Ina Garten tosses oven-roasted <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/25-beautiful-recipes-you-cant-beet/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">beets</a> in a balsamic vinaigrette and serves them on a bed of dressed arugula topped with goat cheese crumble and Marcona almonds. Tasty and gorgeous, this is a perfect side dish or light meal.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/balsamic-roasted-beet-salad/18496/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten's Balsamic Roasted Beet Salad</a></strong></p>
  • Orange Braised Carrots and Parsnips
     
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    Orange Braised Carrots and Parsnips

    <p>Orange juice helps bring out the sweetness in this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/best-root-vegetables-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">root vegetable recipe</a> that looks as great as it tastes! A perfect addition to any main course adding both flavour and colour to the table.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/orange-braised-carrots-and-parsnips/22303/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten’s Orange Braised Carrots and Parsnips</strong></a></p>
  • Sweet Potato Puree
     
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    Sweet Potato Puree

    <p>Pureed <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potato</a> is a simple, satisfying and comforting side for almost any protein you can think of, plus it brings a burst of colour to your table! Ina Garten uses a hint of citrus and a dash of heat to give flavour to these tasty spuds.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-potato-puree/22429/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Sweet Potato Puree</strong></a></p>
  • Shredded Brussels Sprouts
     
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    Shredded Brussels Sprouts

    <p>Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts make a pretty, tasty salad that works with a wide variety of mains. A great way to get everyone — kids included — to eat their greens!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sauteed-shredded-brussels-sprouts/17586/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten’s Sauteed Shredded Brussels Sprouts</a></strong></p>
  • Crunchy Iceberg Salad
     
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    Crunchy Iceberg Salad

    <p>Rather than tearing iceberg lettuce, Ina Garten slices it into disks and then tops it with a creamy Roquefort salad dressing for a more elegant presentation of this classic side dish. Finish each serving with a topping of celery, radishes and scallions, plus crumbled blue cheese for a pretty dish that will wow guests or brighten up your weeknight meals!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crunchy-iceberg-salad-with-creamy-blue-cheese/21887/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten's Crunchy Iceberg Salad With Creamy Blue Cheese</strong></p>
  • Zucchini Pancakes
     
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    Zucchini Pancakes

    <p>Think differently next time you’re preparing <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-and-delicious-zucchini-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">zucchini</a> and make these delightful pancakes. Perfect for a holiday side, weekend brunch or appetizers, they’ll become a firm favourites that you'll be asked to make again and again.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/zucchini-pancakes/16073/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Zucchini Pancakes</strong></a></p>
  • Tuscan Roasted Potatoes and Lemon
     
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    Tuscan Roasted Potatoes and Lemon

    <p>This roasted potato, garlic and lemon dish is like a burst of Tuscan sunshine in every bite. Diced Yukon golds are roasted on a sheet pan until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It's the perfect comforting accompaniment for any meal.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tuscan-roasted-potatoes-and-lemon/22434/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Tuscan Roasted Potatoes & Lemon</strong></a></p>
  • Roasted Asparagus
     
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    Roasted Asparagus

    <p>There's nothing simpler than oven-roasted vegetables. Roasted asparagus will brighten any meal — both in colour and flavour. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/best-recipes-with-fresh-asparagus/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">delicious ways to use fresh asparagus</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-roasted-asparagus/15409/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Roasted Asparagus</strong></a></p>
  • Zucchini and Goat Cheese Tart
     
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    Zucchini and Goat Cheese Tart

    <p>This gorgeous crowd-pleaser layers paper-thin zucchini over flavoured goat cheese. Start the meal with this beautiful tart or serve it alongside <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/classic-sunday-roast-dinner-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">a beautiful roast dinner</a> for an impressive spread.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/recipe/zucchini-and-goat-cheese-tart/20059/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten’s Zucchini and Goat Cheese Tart</a></strong></p>
  • Arugula Radicchio and Parmesan Salad
     
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    Arugula Radicchio and Parmesan Salad

    <p>An easy, colourful salad recipe from Ina Garten that's made with baby arugula, Parmesan cheese, endives and radicchio, all topped off with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/40-homemade-salad-dressings-and-vinaigrettes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">an easy homemade vinaigrette</a>. It looks as good as it is flavourful!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/arugula-radicchio-and-parmesan-salad/19816/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten’s Arugula Radicchio and Parmesan Salad</strong></a></p>
  • Cauliflower Gratin
     
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    Cauliflower Gratin

    <p>Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses give this comforting cauliflower bake a nutty flavour and perfect crust on top. Pair with a meat and a salad for an easy weeknight meal or serve it family-style for a potluck.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa/recipe/ina-gartens-cauliflower-gratin/15433/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten's Cauliflower Gratin</a></strong></p>
  • Shaved Brussels Sprouts With Pancetta
     
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    Shaved Brussels Sprouts With Pancetta

    <p>Did you know that Brussels sprouts are absolutely scrumptious when thinly sliced then sauteed? Ina starts her version with pancetta and olive oil and finishes it with syrupy balsamic vinegar, giving it a Mediterranean profile. A delicious accompaniment to any meal!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/recipe/shaved-brussels-sprouts-with-pancetta/22300/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Shaved Brussels Sprouts With Pancetta</strong></a></p>
  • Zucchini and Gruyere Frittata Squares
     
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    Zucchini and Gruyere Frittata Squares

    <p>Flavourful zucchini squares are the perfect portable <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/photos/ina-garten-holiday-brunch/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recipe for a brunch gathering</a> or just a simple-to-serve side for a weekday meal. Since it’s perfect both straight out of the oven or at room temperature, it works for a variety of occasions.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/recipe/zucchini-and-gruyere-frittata-squares/22296/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Zucchini and Gruyere Frittata Squares</a></strong> </p>
  • Parmesan Chive Smashed Potatoes
     
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    Parmesan Chive Smashed Potatoes

    <p>If you're serving a rich meat dish, skip heavy mashed potatoes and smash your spuds instead. First, boil your potatoes — skin and all — and then press them with a large masher or metal measuring cup before you roast them. This recipe uses smaller potatoes, and the texture pairs beautifully with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/best-steak-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">steaks </a>or roasts. They’re tasty to eat and make a gorgeous addition to any menu.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/recipe/parmesan-chive-smashed-potatoes/21879/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Parmesan Chive Smashed Potatoes</strong></a></p>
  • Spinach Gratin
     
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    Spinach Gratin

    <p>Leave it to Ina to make vegetable casseroles feel gourmet. This decadently creamy spinach dish will have everyone eating their greens without an ounce of hesitation. This easy dish is great for weeknights, for company or for larger get-togethers such as potlucks or holiday buffets.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-spinach-gratin/15407/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten’s Spinach Gratin</strong></a></p>
  • Crunchy Baked Potatoes With Whipped Feta
     
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    Crunchy Baked Potatoes With Whipped Feta

    <p>These elevated potatoes take a little longer than your regular roasted potatoes but are totally worth the extra effort. Ina’s version of this dish takes scrubbed Idaho potatoes and rolls them in an herbed salt mixture before baking them. Serve them hot from the oven with a dollop of whipped feta cheese.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crusty-baked-potatoes-with-whipped-feta/22339/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Crusty Baked Potatoes With Whipped Feta</strong></a></p>
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