Thanksgiving is a special time for friends and family to come together and enjoy a delicious meal. The star of this meal is often a perfectly cooked turkey, but deciding what to serve with it can be a challenge. With so many side dishes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to create a menu that complements the flavors of turkey while satisfying everyone’s tastes.
Fear not, as we’ve compiled a list of the best side dishes to serve with turkey. From classic favorites like mashed potatoes and green beans to more creative options like roasted Brussels sprouts and quinoa salad, there’s something for everyone. So, read on to discover new ideas and inspiration for your Thanksgiving feast.
Classic Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Classic Thanksgiving Side Dishes are those dishes that have become an essential part of the Thanksgiving feast over the years. They are the crowd-pleasers that everyone looks forward to every year. The classic Thanksgiving side dishes include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, and roasted vegetables.
Mashed potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, and they are cooked in different ways to achieve the desired consistency. Green bean casserole is creamy and indulging and has become a signature Thanksgiving dish. Stuffing made with an assortment of herbs and spices, bread, and vegetables is a personal favorite of many, while cranberry sauce, with its tart and sweet flavors, cuts through the richness of the turkey. The sweet potato casserole is an aromatic dish loaded with cinnamon, brown sugar, pecans, and marshmallows, and roasted vegetables are an easy way to incorporate more greens into the meal. These classic Thanksgiving side dishes will undoubtedly make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable.
Healthy Alternatives to Traditional Sides
For those who prefer healthier alternatives to traditional sides, several options are available that are both flavorful and nutritious. For starters, consider roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes. They are easy to prepare, and their natural sweetness complements the savory taste of turkey well. Another option is a colorful salad. You can combine a variety of greens and vegetables to create a nutritious and satisfying salad, and top it off with a homemade vinaigrette. You can skip the mayonnaise-based potato salad or coleslaw and opt for healthier slaws such as kale slaw or shaved Brussels sprout slaw to keep the festive feeling alive.
You can also try some unconventional sides such as quinoa stuffing, roasted butternut squash soup, or wild rice pilaf with dried cranberries and almonds. These sides not only up the nutrition quotient, but they also add a hint of innovation to your traditional Thanksgiving spread. By opting for these healthier alternatives, you can keep your indulgence in check while also treating your taste buds to unique and delicious flavors.
International Flavors to Accompany Turkey
When it comes to serving turkey, you don’t have to stick to traditional sides. There are delicious international flavors that can perfectly complement your turkey dish. One great option is to serve your turkey with some Indian-style basmati rice cooked with raisins and almonds. The nutty flavor and texture of the rice, mixed with the sweetness of raisins, will marry perfectly with the succulent turkey meat.
Another great option is to serve your turkey with some tangy cranberry chutney. This sweet and spicy condiment is a popular side dish in many South Asian countries, and it will add a burst of flavor to your turkey experience. You can also pair your turkey with some flavorful Lebanese-style tabbouleh salad, which is made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. The freshness and crunchiness of the salad will make a great contrast to the soft and juicy turkey meat. By incorporating these international flavors, you can add a touch of uniqueness and excitement to your traditional turkey feast.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options for Thanksgiving
When it comes to Thanksgiving, many people find themselves with a beloved guest who doesn’t partake in meat. Fear not, though, for there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options to choose from! One classic side dish option is roasted vegetables. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes are just a few examples of vegetables that can be roasted with herbs and spices to make a delicious and filling side dish.
Another popular option is mushroom gravy. This savory sauce can be made with vegetable broth and thickened with flour or cornstarch. It pairs perfectly with vegetarian options like mashed potatoes or stuffing. And for those who want to incorporate some protein into their meal, consider serving a lentil or chickpea based dish. From lentil shepherd’s pie to chickpea curry, there are plenty of hearty and delicious options to choose from. Plus, these dishes can be made in advance and reheated, making them a convenient option for busy Thanksgiving hosts.
Tips for Pairing Wine with Thanksgiving Dinner
Pairing wine with Thanksgiving dinner can be a challenge because there are so many different dishes on the table. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow to ensure that the wine complements your meal. First, consider bringing both red and white wine to the table. White wine pairs well with turkey, while red wine pairs well with heavier dishes like stuffing, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce.
Another tip for pairing wine with Thanksgiving dinner is to choose wines that are not too sweet or too acidic. Wines with high acidity can clash with the flavors of the food, while sweet wines can overpower the meal. Instead, opt for wines that have a medium body and tannins, such as Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different wines with each course – you might discover a new favorite pairing!
Creative Leftover Recipes to Enjoy After Thanksgiving
Don’t let those Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste! Get creative with your leftovers and try out some unique recipes. First, transform your leftover turkey into a savory soup by simmering it with vegetables, herbs, and broth. This will give you a healthy and nourishing meal that’s perfect for those cold winter nights.
Next, try making turkey enchiladas with leftover meat. Simply mix the turkey with salsa, cheese, and veggies of your choice, roll it in tortillas, and bake in the oven. You can also whip up a leftover turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce, lettuce, and cheese for a wholesome lunch. These creative leftover recipes are an excellent way to make the most of your Thanksgiving feast and create delicious meals for the days to come.
Desserts to Finish off Your Thanksgiving Meal
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a sweet ending to the meal. The perfect dessert to round off the day is a pumpkin pie, which is a holiday classic. For those who prefer something a little different, apple or pecan tarts also make fantastic options. A dessert that complements the turkey is necessary to encompass the flavor of the Thanksgiving meal entirely.
If you want a unique dessert that is not the usual pumpkin pie, you can try pumpkin cheesecake, apple crisp, or apple dumplings. If you are serving a large crowd or want to accommodate different dietary needs, you can also consider serving individual desserts, such as cupcakes or cookies. Your Thanksgiving table will be a hit with these delectable dessert options. Remember, the dessert not only caps off the meal but also provides a chance for family and friends to spend time together and share memories.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, serving a delicious and well-rounded Thanksgiving meal requires careful consideration of the side dishes to be paired with the main course of turkey. While there are traditional options such as stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce, there are also many creative and flavorful dishes that can enhance the dining experience. Incorporating vegetables, grains, and fruits can add variety to the meal, as well as nutritional value.
Ultimately, the choice of side dishes depends on personal preferences and cultural traditions. Experimenting with new and interesting recipes can make the meal more exciting and memorable. Whether it’s a classic recipe or a modern twist, serving a balanced and satisfying meal will surely impress family and friends and make the Thanksgiving celebration a success.