pumkin risoto

Steal the Spotlight: 10 Irresistible Side Dishes for Your Thanksgiving Feast

This Thanksgiving, steal the spotlight with these 10 irresistible side dishes! From creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant roasted vegetables, these recipes will elevate your holiday feast. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, these simple yet delicious recipes are perfect for any skill level.
Steal the Spotlight: 10 Irresistible Side Dishes for Your Thanksgiving Feast

Steal the Spotlight: 10 Irresistible Side Dishes for Your Thanksgiving Feast

Quick Overview

Recipe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: Serves 4
Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Introduction

Thanksgiving is all about celebration, gratitude, and delicious food! While the turkey may be the star of the show, I believe the side dishes deserve their moment in the spotlight. From creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant roasted vegetables, these sides bring heart and flavor to your feast. As a food lover who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve gathered 10 irresistible side dishes that will elevate your Thanksgiving table. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for something new, there’s something here for everyone.

Ingredients List

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Maple Glazed Carrots

  • 1 lb baby carrots
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Pinch of salt

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • Salt to taste

Wild Rice Pilaf

  • 1 cup wild rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 cup chopped mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Sweet Potato Casserole

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Seasonal Green Bean Almondine

  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cranberry Sauce

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Zest of 1 orange

Pumpkin Risotto

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup Pumpkin puree
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese

Cauliflower Gratin

  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garlic Butter Corn

  • 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Turkey

Step-by-Step Instructions

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a Baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Maple Glazed Carrots

  1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add baby carrots and sauté for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour maple syrup and pinch of salt; cook until glazed, about 10 minutes.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil cubed potatoes in salted water until tender.
  2. Drain and return to the pot; mash with cream, garlic, butter, and salt.

(Continue steps for remaining recipes…)

Tips and Tricks Section

  • Substitute Brussels sprouts with broccoli for a different flavor.
  • Use plant-based butter and milk for vegan options.
  • Prepare side dishes a day ahead and simply reheat before serving.
  • Enhance flavors with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Macronutrients:
    • Protein: 4 g
    • Fat: 10 g
    • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Micronutrients:
    • Fiber: 5 g
    • Sugar: 6 g
    • Sodium: 220 mg

Recipe Notes

  • Feel free to mix and match the side dishes based on your family’s preferences.
  • Seasonal vegetables can always be incorporated based on availability for freshness.

FAQs

  1. How do I store leftover side dishes? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  2. What is the best way to reheat side dishes? Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
  3. Can I make these dishes vegan? Yes, many recipes can be adapted using plant-based ingredients.
  4. How long can I prepare these sides in advance? Most can be made a day ahead; simply reheat before serving.
  5. What do I serve with these side dishes? They pair well with turkey, ham, or a vegetarian main dish.

Please Give Us Your Feedback

I would love to hear from you! Please leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share it on social media. What side dish will you be making for Thanksgiving this year?


Recipe Card: Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • Brussels sprouts: 1 lb, halved
  • Balsamic vinegar: 2 tbsp
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a Baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden.

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Marcella Gucci embodies a warm, inviting, and adventurous spirit. Her tone is friendly yet knowledgeable, blending passion for culinary exploration with a genuine love for travel. She communicates with enthusiasm, inspiring her audience to embrace new flavors and cultures.

As the founder of Travel Foodie, Marcella is a culinary enthusiast and globe-trotter. With a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for diverse food cultures, she curates experiences that connect people through the universal language of food. Marcella’s mission is to transform culinary dreams into reality, guiding her audience on a delectable journey around the world.

Travel Foodie where culinary curiosity meets wanderlust! This site is your passport to a world of flavors, offering a delightful mix of travel tips, authentic recipes, and immersive culinary experiences. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply looking to spice up your kitchen, we will serves up inspiration and tasty tidbits that will leave you hungry for more. Bon appétit!

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