47+ Delicious Veggie Sides for a Memorable Thanksgiving
Looking to spice up your Thanksgiving table with some veggie magic? Here’s a collection of over 47 + tasty vegetable sides that’ll make your holiday feast shine. From roasted delights to savory casseroles, there’s something here for every palate. Let’s get cooking!
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed acorn squash is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. This dish combines the natural sweetness of the squash with a hearty filling, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
The image shows beautifully roasted acorn squash halves, filled with a colorful mixture of grains, beans, and nuts. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for a festive occasion.
To make this dish, you’ll need acorn squash, quinoa or couscous, black beans, kidney beans, nuts, and spices. Start by roasting the squash until tender. While it cooks, prepare the filling by mixing the grains and beans with your favorite seasonings. Once the squash is ready, stuff it with the mixture and bake for a bit longer to meld the flavors.
This dish not only tastes great but also offers a wonderful presentation. It’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal ingredients and impress your guests.
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
This roasted root vegetable medley is a colorful and healthy addition to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant mix of carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes not only looks inviting but also brings a variety of flavors to the feast.
To make this dish, gather some fresh root vegetables. You’ll need carrots, beets, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even roasting. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and your favorite herbs. Rosemary and thyme work wonderfully here.
Spread the veggies on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized. This process enhances their natural sweetness and creates a delightful texture. The result is a medley that’s not just nutritious but also a feast for the eyes.
Serve this dish warm, and watch as it becomes a favorite among your guests. It pairs well with turkey and stuffing, making it a perfect side for your Thanksgiving celebration.
Maple Glazed Carrots
Maple glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant orange color of the carrots makes them visually appealing, while the sweet maple glaze adds a touch of warmth and comfort to your meal.
To make these tasty carrots, you’ll need fresh carrots, maple syrup, butter, and a sprinkle of salt. Start by washing and trimming the carrots, then cook them until they’re tender. In a pan, melt the butter and mix in the maple syrup and salt. Toss the cooked carrots in this mixture until they’re well coated.
This dish not only tastes great but also brings a lovely sweetness that balances out savory dishes. It’s a simple recipe that anyone can whip up, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving table. Their crispy edges and tender centers create a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with a sweet balsamic glaze.
This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing. The vibrant green of the sprouts contrasts beautifully with the deep, rich color of the glaze and the bright red pomegranate seeds sprinkled on top. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
To make this dish, start by trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden brown. Drizzle with balsamic glaze right before serving for that extra zing. Top with pomegranate seeds for a refreshing crunch.
These roasted Brussels sprouts are sure to impress your guests. They are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making your Thanksgiving meal planning a breeze.
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Garlic mashed cauliflower is a fantastic alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for Thanksgiving. The image shows a bowl of smooth, fluffy cauliflower topped with a swirl of garlic butter and sprinkled with fresh chives. It looks inviting and delicious, making it a great side for any holiday meal.
To make this dish, you’ll need cauliflower, garlic, butter, cream, and seasonings. Start by steaming the cauliflower until it’s tender. Then, blend it with sautéed garlic and butter until smooth. Add cream for extra richness and season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, garnish with chives for a pop of color.
This side dish pairs well with turkey or any roasted meat. It’s a great way to add veggies to your plate without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s low in carbs, making it a hit for those watching their diet.
Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds
Sautéed green beans with almonds are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant green beans bring a fresh pop of color, while the toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also complements the rich flavors of the holiday feast.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh green beans, sliced almonds, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Start by trimming the green beans and blanching them in boiling water for a few minutes. Then, sauté them in olive oil with minced garlic until they are tender yet crisp. Toss in the almonds towards the end to toast them lightly.
This simple recipe is a crowd-pleaser and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear from the serving dish!
Cranberry Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Cranberry orange glazed sweet potatoes are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant colors of the dish catch the eye, making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes. The sweet potatoes are beautifully glazed with a mix of cranberry sauce and fresh orange juice, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
To make this dish, you’ll need sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, fresh oranges, and a few herbs for garnish. Start by roasting the sweet potatoes until they’re tender. Then, mix the cranberry sauce with orange juice and pour it over the warm sweet potatoes. A sprinkle of fresh cranberries and orange slices on top adds a festive touch.
This side dish is not only tasty but also brings a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread. It’s a great way to incorporate seasonal flavors and impress your guests. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holiday with loved ones.
Creamed Spinach with Parmesan
Creamed spinach with Parmesan is a classic side dish that brings a cozy touch to any Thanksgiving table. The image shows vibrant green spinach leaves swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with shreds of Parmesan. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.
To make this delightful side, you’ll need fresh spinach, heavy cream, garlic, butter, and, of course, Parmesan cheese. Start by sautéing garlic in butter, then add the spinach until it wilts. Pour in the cream and let it simmer until thickened. Finally, stir in the Parmesan for that extra cheesy goodness.
This creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving dishes. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying a rich and comforting flavor. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear from the table!
Savory Mushroom and Spinach Stuffing
This savory mushroom and spinach stuffing is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach creates a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. The golden-brown cubes of bread soak up all the flavors, making every bite satisfying.
The ingredients are simple yet effective. You’ll need mushrooms, fresh spinach, bread cubes, vegetable broth, and a mix of herbs. Start by sautéing the mushrooms until they’re tender, then add the spinach until it wilts. Combine this with the bread cubes and broth, and mix everything well.
Once mixed, transfer it to a baking dish and let it bake until the top is crispy. This stuffing pairs wonderfully with turkey or can be enjoyed on its own. It’s a great way to add some greens to your holiday meal!
Creamy Corn Casserole
Creamy corn casserole is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. This dish brings a comforting warmth that pairs perfectly with turkey and all the traditional sides. The golden, bubbly top is inviting and promises a rich flavor.
The casserole features sweet corn mixed with a creamy base, often enhanced with cheese and spices. It’s simple to prepare, making it a favorite for many home cooks. Just imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes!
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like corn, cream, cheese, and a few seasonings. Combine everything in a baking dish and let the oven do the work. In no time, you’ll have a side that everyone will love.
Serve it warm, and watch it disappear from the table. Creamy corn casserole is not just a side; it’s a comforting staple that adds joy to your Thanksgiving feast.
Spiced Apple and Pear Slaw
This spiced apple and pear slaw is a refreshing twist on traditional Thanksgiving sides. The vibrant colors of the apples and pears, combined with crunchy veggies, make it a feast for the eyes and the palate.
To make this slaw, you’ll need crisp apples, juicy pears, and a mix of green onions and red onions for that extra crunch. A sprinkle of spices adds warmth and depth, making it perfect for the holiday table.
Start by slicing the apples and pears into thin strips. Toss them with the onions and your choice of spices. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can really bring out the flavors. Serve it chilled for a crisp, refreshing side that pairs well with roasted turkey or ham.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
This Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant colors of the squash and greens make it visually appealing. The combination of textures, from the creamy squash to the crunchy walnuts, adds a satisfying element to each bite.
To make this salad, you’ll need fresh butternut squash, leafy greens like spinach or arugula, and walnuts. Start by roasting the squash until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Toss it with the greens and walnuts for a hearty side dish.
For an extra kick, consider adding a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey. This dressing complements the sweetness of the squash perfectly. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear from the table!
Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad
This Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad is a colorful and healthy addition to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and fresh herbs creates a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.
To make this salad, you’ll need cooked quinoa, diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and a handful of fresh herbs like parsley and mint. Toss these ingredients together in a bowl for a refreshing side that complements any main dish.
Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor. This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a festive meal.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are a fantastic way to enjoy a lighter twist on pasta. They are fresh, vibrant, and perfect for a Thanksgiving veggie side. The image shows a bowl of zoodles tossed in a bright green pesto sauce, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes. This dish not only looks appealing but also brings a burst of flavor to your table.
To make zucchini noodles with pesto, start by spiralizing fresh zucchini. You can use a spiralizer or a simple vegetable peeler to create thin strips. Next, prepare your pesto by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Toss the zoodles in the pesto until they are well coated. Finally, add halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
This dish is quick to prepare and can be served warm or cold. It’s a great option for those looking to add a healthy, delicious side to their Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy the fresh flavors and the beautiful presentation!
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Skewers
Brussels sprouts and bacon skewers are a fun and tasty addition to your Thanksgiving veggie sides. These skewers combine the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the savory crunch of bacon, making them a hit at any gathering.
To make these skewers, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, bacon, and your favorite seasonings. Start by trimming the sprouts and parboiling them until they’re just tender. Then, wrap each sprout with a slice of bacon and secure them on skewers. Grill or bake until the bacon is crispy.
These skewers not only look great on the table, but they also offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors. They’re perfect for serving as an appetizer or a side dish. Plus, they’re easy to make in large batches!
