Thanksgiving is the perfect time to elevate your feast with a variety of delicious vegetable sides. From classic favorites to creative twists, our collection of over 29+ options will add color, flavor, and nutrition to your holiday table. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy all taste preferences with these vibrant dishes!
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
This roasted root vegetable medley is a colorful and healthy addition to your Thanksgiving table. The mix of vibrant carrots, beets, and parsnips creates a feast for the eyes and the palate.
To make this dish, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need carrots, parsnips, beets, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme. Cut the vegetables into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
Next, toss the veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors.
Once done, serve them warm, garnished with fresh herbs. This medley not only tastes great but also adds a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread!
Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds
Sautéed green beans with almonds are a classic side dish that adds color and crunch to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant green of the beans contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown turkey in the background. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh green beans, sliced almonds, garlic, and a bit of olive oil. Start by blanching the green beans until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. Then, sauté them in olive oil with minced garlic for a few minutes. Finally, toss in the almonds for a nutty finish.
This simple recipe is a great way to incorporate vegetables into your holiday meal. Plus, it pairs well with other traditional dishes. The crunch of the almonds adds a delightful texture that everyone will enjoy. Serve it alongside your turkey and stuffing for a well-rounded feast!
Cauliflower Gratin
Cauliflower gratin is a cozy dish that adds warmth to any Thanksgiving table. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a favorite among vegetable sides. This dish features tender cauliflower florets baked to perfection, covered in a rich cheese sauce, and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh cauliflower, cheese (like Gruyère or cheddar), milk, butter, and breadcrumbs. Start by steaming the cauliflower until it’s just tender. Then, prepare a simple cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in milk until thickened. Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine the cauliflower with the cheese sauce in a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake until bubbly and golden. The result is a deliciously comforting side that pairs beautifully with turkey and other holiday favorites.
Maple Glazed Carrots
Maple glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. Their vibrant orange color and glossy finish make them visually appealing. The sweetness of maple syrup pairs perfectly with the natural earthiness of the carrots, creating a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
To make these tasty carrots, you’ll need fresh carrots, maple syrup, butter, salt, and pepper. Start by washing and peeling the carrots, then cut them into even pieces. In a pan, melt the butter and add the carrots, cooking them until they start to soften. Pour in the maple syrup, season with salt and pepper, and let them simmer until they’re tender and coated in the sweet glaze.
This dish not only tastes great but also adds a touch of elegance to your meal. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor. Maple glazed carrots are sure to impress your guests and become a favorite side dish for years to come.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that brings comfort to any Thanksgiving table. The creamy texture and rich flavor make them a favorite for many. This dish pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy, adding a delightful touch to your holiday feast.
The image shows a bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes, topped with fresh chives. The warm, inviting look of the potatoes makes them hard to resist. Surrounding the bowl are decorative pumpkins, hinting at the seasonal vibe of Thanksgiving.
To make garlic mashed potatoes, you’ll need simple ingredients: potatoes, garlic, butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Combine everything in a bowl, mash to your desired consistency, and season to taste. The result is a creamy, garlicky delight that everyone will love!
Creamed Spinach with Nutmeg
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that adds a creamy, comforting touch to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant green spinach is cooked down and combined with a rich sauce, making it a delightful addition to your meal.
The image shows a beautifully plated serving of creamed spinach, topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added texture. The deep green color of the spinach contrasts nicely with the white plate, making it visually appealing. This dish not only looks good but also offers a wonderful flavor, thanks to the hint of nutmeg that elevates the taste.
To make creamed spinach, you’ll need fresh spinach, butter, cream, and a pinch of nutmeg. Start by sautéing the spinach until wilted, then mix in the cream and seasonings. Finish with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before serving. This simple recipe is sure to impress your guests and complement your Thanksgiving feast.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed acorn squash is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant orange flesh of the squash contrasts beautifully with the colorful filling, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
This dish typically features a hearty stuffing made from grains, nuts, and dried fruits. Imagine a warm blend of quinoa or couscous mixed with cranberries, chickpeas, and spices. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the savory and slightly tart flavors of the stuffing.
Preparing stuffed acorn squash is simple. Start by halving the squash and removing the seeds. Roast it until tender, then fill it with your chosen stuffing. Bake it again to let the flavors meld together. The result is a warm, comforting side that everyone will love.
Not only is it tasty, but stuffed acorn squash is also nutritious. It’s packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy choice for your holiday meal. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so it can cater to various dietary preferences.
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 well with many dishes. The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that elevates these veggies to a whole new level.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by preheating your oven and preparing the sprouts by trimming and halving them. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until they’re golden brown.
Once they’re out of the oven, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top. This glaze can be made by simmering balsamic vinegar with honey until it thickens. For a pop of color and extra flavor, sprinkle some pomegranate seeds on top before serving. This dish not only looks beautiful but also tastes amazing!
Savory Stuffed Mushrooms
These stuffed mushrooms are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. They look inviting, with their golden tops and fresh herbs sprinkled on top. The rich, earthy tones of the mushrooms contrast beautifully with the creamy filling, making them a feast for the eyes.
To make these tasty bites, you’ll need some large portobello or cremini mushrooms, cream cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing the stems. Then, mix the cream cheese with minced garlic and herbs for a flavorful filling.
Fill each mushroom cap generously with the mixture and bake until they’re golden and bubbly. These stuffed mushrooms are not just a side; they can easily steal the show. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear!
Cranberry and Wild Rice Pilaf
Cranberry and Wild Rice Pilaf is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. This dish combines the nutty flavors of wild rice with the tartness of cranberries, creating a perfect balance. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, adding a festive touch to your spread.
The pilaf is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients. Wild rice is a whole grain, rich in fiber and protein, while cranberries provide antioxidants. Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Making this dish is simple. Start by cooking the wild rice according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté onions and garlic, then mix in the cooked rice, cranberries, and herbs. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Serve warm, and watch it disappear!
Zucchini and Corn Fritters
Zucchini and corn fritters are a fun and tasty addition to any Thanksgiving table. These little bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a soft, flavorful inside. They are perfect for those who want a veggie side that stands out.
To make these fritters, you’ll need fresh zucchini, sweet corn, flour, eggs, and some spices. Start by grating the zucchini and mixing it with corn. Combine with flour and eggs to form a batter. Then, simply fry them until they’re crispy. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra kick!
These fritters not only taste great but also add a pop of color to your spread. They’re easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone, making them a fantastic choice for your Thanksgiving feast.
Herb Roasted Potatoes
Herb roasted potatoes are a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving feast. They bring a warm, comforting vibe to the table, perfectly complementing the main dishes. The golden-brown color and crispy edges make them visually appealing, while the tender inside offers a delightful texture.
To make these delicious potatoes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: baby potatoes, olive oil, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Start by preheating your oven and cutting the potatoes in half. Toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until they’re crispy and golden.
These potatoes are not just tasty; they’re also versatile. You can adjust the herbs based on your preference or even add a sprinkle of cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Serve them alongside turkey or ham, and watch them disappear from the table!
Spiced Roasted Vegetable Salad
This spiced roasted vegetable salad is a colorful and tasty addition to your Thanksgiving table. The mix of roasted veggies brings warmth and comfort, perfect for the season. Imagine vibrant red tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and crunchy bell peppers all tossed together.
To make this salad, start by roasting your favorite vegetables. Think about using carrots, zucchini, and red onions, seasoned with olive oil and spices. Once roasted, let them cool slightly before mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro for a burst of flavor.
For a little extra zing, consider adding a simple dressing made from lemon juice and a hint of honey. This will tie all the flavors together beautifully. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear from the table!
Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a cozy dish perfect for any Thanksgiving table. The image shows a warm bowl of vibrant orange soup, topped with a swirl of cream and crunchy pumpkin seeds. It’s served alongside slices of hearty bread, making it a comforting starter.
This soup is not just delicious; it’s also simple to make. You’ll need ingredients like butternut squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and spices. Start by roasting the squash until tender, then blend it with sautéed onions and garlic for a creamy texture.
Serve it hot, and don’t forget to add a sprinkle of seeds on top for a bit of crunch. This dish captures the essence of fall and is sure to impress your guests!
Honey Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Honey glazed sweet potatoes are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. Their vibrant orange color and glossy finish make them visually appealing. The sweetness from the honey pairs perfectly with the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes, creating a dish that is both comforting and festive.
To make this dish, you’ll need sweet potatoes, honey, butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth. Start by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes, then toss them in melted butter and honey. Roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. For added texture, consider mixing in some pecans or walnuts.
This side dish not only tastes great but also brings a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving spread. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress your guests. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require much time, allowing you to focus on other dishes.
