Thanksgiving is all about coming together with your loved ones and enjoying a delicious feast. While turkey may be the star of the show, it’s the side dishes that truly make the meal complete. From mashed potatoes to green bean casserole, there are a variety of side dishes that are staples on the Thanksgiving table.
If you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply attending as a guest, it’s important to know what side dishes are popular and expected. Whether you’re looking to stick to tradition or mix it up with something new, this article will provide insight into the most common side dishes for Thanksgiving.
Traditional Thanksgiving Sides That Everyone Loves
Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful for all the blessings we have in life, but it is also a time to enjoy delicious food with family and friends. When it comes to the perfect Thanksgiving feast, the most important part of the meal is the side dishes. While the main dish is usually a turkey or ham, it is the side dishes that truly add the flavor and variety to the meal.
Traditional Thanksgiving sides that everyone loves are dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. These are dishes that are loved by all and hold a special place in our hearts. Some of the most popular and traditional Thanksgiving sides include green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. These sides are not only delicious but also evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. There is no Thanksgiving feast without these traditional sides.
Delicious and Easy-to-Make Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Dinner
Thanksgiving is all about gathering with your loved ones and enjoying a hearty feast. While the turkey takes center stage, the sides play an equally important role in making the dinner complete. If you’re looking for easy and delicious side dishes to add to your Thanksgiving menu, we’ve got you covered.
First on our list is the classic mashed potatoes. This crowd-pleaser can be made ahead of time and reheated on the day of the dinner. You can add garlic, chives, or cheese to the mashed potatoes to give them an extra flavor kick. Another side dish that’s sure to be a hit is roasted root vegetables. Simply toss carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and beets in olive oil and herbs, and roast them in the oven for an hour until they’re golden and crispy. These dishes are not only easy to prepare, but they’re also a great way to add some color and variety to your Thanksgiving spread.
Vegetarian and Vegan Side Dishes to Include in Your Thanksgiving Menu
For those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, there are plenty of delicious side dishes to include in your Thanksgiving menu. One classic option is roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Tossed with some olive oil, salt, and herbs, these make for a flavorful and healthy dish.
Another great option is a hearty vegetable stuffing. Replace the traditional turkey stuffing with a mix of diced vegetables such as onions, celery, carrots, and mushrooms. Add some breadcrumbs or quinoa to the mix and season with sage, thyme, and rosemary for a savory and satisfying dish. For a pop of color, try adding some cranberries to the stuffing as well. With so many delicious vegetarian and vegan options out there, everyone can enjoy a satisfying Thanksgiving meal – no matter what their dietary preferences may be.
Trending Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Try Out This Year
Thanksgiving is known for traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole, but trying out new side dishes can add excitement to the holiday feast. This year, there are several trending Thanksgiving side dishes that are worth trying out.
One of the trending side dishes for Thanksgiving this year is roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and maple syrup. This dish combines the sweet and savory flavors and is an excellent accompaniment to turkey. Another trending option is the corn pudding, which is creamy and cheesy and can be a perfect substitute for the classic mashed potatoes. Some other popular options include roasted acorn squash with honey and butter, cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries, and cornbread stuffing with sausage and pecans. These new and creative dishes can add variety to the Thanksgiving menu and are sure to impress the guests.
Creative and Unusual Side Dishes to Impress Your Thanksgiving Guests
Traditional Thanksgiving side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes and stuffing are the staples of the holiday feast. But if you’re looking to surprise and impress your Thanksgiving guests, consider incorporating a few creative and unusual side dishes.
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, roasted root vegetables with herbs and honey, and a savory butternut squash gratin are just a few examples of unique and delicious side dishes you can serve. Other inventive choices include wild rice and mushroom stuffing, quinoa salad with dried fruit and nuts, and roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce. These tasty and unexpected dishes will add excitement to your Thanksgiving table and leave your guests wanting more.
Gluten-free and Healthy Side Dish Options for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time when families come together to enjoy traditional meals and catch up on life. For those with gluten allergies or those wishing to opt for healthier options, it is possible to enjoy a feast that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Here are some gluten-free and healthy side dishes that you can add to your Thanksgiving menu.
Roasted vegetables are a must-have side dish for Thanksgiving, and they can easily be made in a gluten-free manner. Try roasting Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes with some olive oil, salt, and pepper to bring out their natural flavors. Another option is quinoa salad, which is not only gluten-free but also packed with protein and fiber. Add some roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, and pecans to it, and you have a healthy and tasty side dish that will complement any turkey or ham.
How to Pair Your Turkey with Perfect Thanksgiving Side Dishes
When it comes to pairing your turkey with the perfect Thanksgiving side dishes, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is to consider the flavors and textures of each dish. For example, if you have a rich and heavy stuffing, you may want to pair it with a lighter vegetable dish like roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans. If you have a sweet potato dish, you might want to balance it out with a more savory dish like mashed potatoes or a simple salad.
Another important factor to consider is the temperature of each dish. You’ll want to make sure that your side dishes are hot and ready to be served when your turkey is done cooking. To do this, you may need to plan ahead and start prepping your side dishes early. With a little bit of planning and consideration, you can pair your turkey with the perfect Thanksgiving side dishes that will make your meal truly unforgettable.
Wrapping Up
Thanksgiving is a special time of the year when families and friends come together to share a delicious feast, and the side dishes play an important role in enhancing the flavors on the table. From mashed potatoes to green bean casserole, there are endless options of side dishes to choose from. While the dishes may vary from region to region or family to family, the common theme is always comfort food that nourishes the soul and brings people together.
Whether you opt for traditional dishes or experiment with new recipes, the best part about Thanksgiving is the opportunity to savor and enjoy the companionship of those around us. As we gather around the table this year, let us remember to give thanks for the blessings in our lives, and cherish the moments of togetherness that this holiday brings. May it be a time of joy, love and warmth, and may the side dishes that we share serve as a reminder of the abundance of good things in our lives.