Frozen, breaded sides earn their place in busy kitchens because they’re consistent and ready to go. Once they come out of your Ovention oven hot and crisp, you’ve got a solid foundation. That’s when it’s time to add a little personality!

Hitting those onion rings or fries with some intentional spice right at the finish while they’re still nice and hot is the perfect time to level up a basic side and take it from good to something guests talk about.

Think about flavor directions.

• Savory-forward blends deepen what’s already there. A light dusting of garlic powder with a touch of onion seasoning on fries or onion rings makes people pause and go, “Why are these so good?” It tastes familiar, just sharper and more intentional.
• Bright, herb-leaning blends wake things up. A restrained mix of dried herbs or a citrus-forward seasoning on breaded cauliflower or zucchini gives that lift that makes diners notice the side instead of eating past it.
• Warm, smoky notes add a little gravitas. Smoked paprika or a mild chile blend on breaded mushrooms brings a deeper, more grown-up flavor that makes the side feel special and unpredictable.
• Sweet heat applied with a light hand makes diners do a double-take. A shake of chili sugar on fries or a mixed appetizer basket gives that little “hey—what’s this?” moment without overpowering the bite.

Dial in spice blends that make your breaded sides sing: Make it your own, then make it the new standard. That’s how you take a frozen convenience and make it taste like anything but.