Sure, the turkey’s grand and all, but these 15 sides are here to throw it some serious shade. Forget playing backup – these dishes have taken center stage, practically demanding their own applause. Bringing a mix of tradition with a twist, these sides are set to make the turkey look like the supporting role it secretly is. Guests might leave talking about the bird, but it’s the side lineup they’ll dream of till next year.
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Nothing warms up a dinner table like a rich, vibrant soup. Red Pepper & Tomato Soup brings a burst of color and soothing flavors that complement any main dish. It’s a cozy addition that often becomes more popular than the main turkey course at holiday gatherings. Guests can enjoy a bowl before the turkey, making it a memorable start to any festive meal.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Turkey Brownie Cupcakes
For a twist on desserts, Turkey Brownie Cupcakes offer a playful nod to the star of the show. These unique treats blend the theme of Thanksgiving with the irresistible appeal of a chocolatey dessert. Ideal for those looking for a bit of whimsy at their meal, they will intrigue guests and spark conversation around the dessert table. They’re a favorite among both kids and adults, proving that turkey can be part of the sweet course too.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Brownie Cupcakes
Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup
When it comes to adding elegance to the table, Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup does it with style. With its creamy texture and subtle flavors, it provides a comforting balance to richer, hearty Thanksgiving dishes. It’s often the dish that guests talk about long after the meal is over. Serving this soup can add a touch of sophistication to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta turn what could be overlooked as a simple side into a conversation starter. With their rich colors and sumptuous texture, they add a dash of gourmet to a traditional meal. This dish is a clever way to incorporate greens into your feast, and the added pancetta provides a pleasing contrast that guests often appreciate. It’s a great way to impress guests looking for something beyond the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce
Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce proves that making healthier choices during the holidays doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. This dish brings the traditional tartness of cranberries to the table without the added sweetness, making it a great option for those watching their sugar intake. It’s also the perfect complement to turkey, enhancing flavors rather than overwhelming them. Many guests appreciate this thoughtful addition.
Get the Recipe: Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce
Wild Rice Salad
This Wild Rice Salad offers a wonderful change from the usual carbohydrate-heavy dishes. It has a nutty flavor profile that pairs well with almost any turkey preparation, and its texture adds a pleasant contrast to softer dishes. A great choice for those looking to lighten their plate, this salad is also visually appealing, adding a rustic touch to the holiday spread. It has a knack for becoming a fast favorite.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad
Parisian Potatoes
Few side dishes are as fulfilling and versatile as Parisian Potatoes. These perfectly seasoned potatoes offer a crispy exterior and a tender center that can steal the spotlight from even the juiciest turkey. Often passed around the table more than once, they are a comforting reminder of simple, well-prepared food. It’s a must-have that complements any main dish excellently.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)
If you’re looking to bring a Mediterranean flair to your meal, Fasolakia Lathera is an excellent choice. This dish features green beans cooked in a way that preserves their brightness while infusing them with rich flavor. It’s a staple in Greek cuisine and is celebrated for its healthy approach to side dishes. It often receives high praise from guests familiar with or new to Greek flavors.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)
Sunshine Salad
Brighten up your meal with Sunshine Salad, a dish named for its vibrant colors and energizing ingredients. This salad is a burst of freshness that can lighten up the traditionally heavy Thanksgiving meal. It’s often chosen by guests looking for something refreshing and different. It’s not just a salad; it’s a statement of colorful, healthy eating.
Get the Recipe: Sunshine Salad
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
With Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, you get a deliciously tender and flavorful side dish that cooks without fuss. This dish allows the green beans to soak up a rich blend of spices and flavors, becoming a well-loved staple at any gathering. It’s particularly appreciated by those who enjoy dishes that have a home-cooked feel. Plus, utilizing the slow cooker frees up valuable space in the kitchen during busy holiday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
There’s nothing quite like Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese to bring comfort to the dinner table. This creamy, hearty side is a universal favorite and often ends up being talked about more than the turkey. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a classic touch to their meals. The golden, cheesy crust is irresistible, making it a must-have at any feast.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour
Thanksgiving isn’t just about solid foods; a good drink can set the tone for the meal. Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour blends smoky and sweet tones to create a beverage that stands out. It pairs wonderfully with traditional dishes, offering a sophisticated option that adults particularly enjoy. This cocktail can easily become a holiday tradition on its own.
Get the Recipe: Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour
Greek Green Beans
A simpler rendition of the Mediterranean classic, Greek Green Beans are gently cooked to retain their vibrant color and natural crunch. This dish offers a healthier side option that complements richer holiday dishes beautifully. It’s a fresh take on traditional green beans, often earning praise for its simplicity and clean flavors. It’s a straightforward yet wonderful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans
Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned
The holidays are the perfect time for themed drinks like Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned. This cocktail takes the nostalgic flavors of apple pie and melds them with the robust nature of an old-fashioned. It’s a festive twist that captures the essence of Thanksgiving in a glass. Often a highlight of the evening, it also serves as a great conversation piece among guests.
Get the Recipe: Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Anyone looking for a lighter, healthier alternative to fried dishes will find delight in Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. These crispy, bite-sized treats offer a sweet contrast to savory main dishes. They cook quickly and are often a hit among health-conscious guests. This dish proves that you can indulge in a delicious, crunchy side without straying from your health goals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes