Thanksgiving is a time to come together with friends and family, share a meal, and create lasting memories. But while we're all about the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, the side dishes are often the stars of the show. And this year, why not make those side dishes a little healthier without compromising on flavor? With just the right balance of nutrients and taste, these 10 healthy Thanksgiving side dishes will not only enhance your holiday spread but also leave you feeling good after the feast.
From roasted vegetables to nutrient-packed salads, there are plenty of ways to lighten up the classics. Whether you're looking for gluten-free, low-calorie, or vegan options, this list has something for everyone. Let's dive into these 10 healthy Thanksgiving side dishes that are sure to impress!
1. Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Why You'll Love It: Brussel sprouts are a Thanksgiving classic that gets a healthy twist with this roasted version. High in fiber and antioxidants, Brussels sprouts are the perfect addition to your holiday table. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, and a balsamic glaze adds the perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. Ingredients:- 1 lb brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
2. Sweet Potato Mash with Cinnamon and Coconut Milk
Why You'll Love It: Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This mash is a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, using coconut milk to create a creamy texture without the need for butter or cream. A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a festive flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ingredients:- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Salt to taste
- Boil sweet potatoes in water for about 15 minutes or until tender.
- Drain and mash with a potato masher.
- Stir in coconut milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Serve warm as a delicious, creamy side dish.
3. Cauliflower Rice Stuffing
Why You'll Love It: Stuffing is a holiday favorite, but it's often loaded with calories and carbs. Cauliflower rice stuffing offers a low-carb, gluten-free alternative while still delivering all the savory flavors you crave. With a medley of herbs, onions, and mushrooms, it's a flavorful, hearty side that will be the star of the table. Ingredients:- 1 head of cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tsp sage
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté onions and mushrooms until tender.
- Add cauliflower rice, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve as a healthy stuffing option.
4. Green Bean Almondine
Why You'll Love It: Green beans are a Thanksgiving staple, and when you add almonds, you get a deliciously healthy, crunchy side dish. Green beans are low in calories but packed with vitamins A, C, and K. This version is light but full of flavor, with a boost from toasted almonds and a touch of lemon. Ingredients:- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Steam or blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes until just tender.
- In a pan, toast almonds in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown.
- Add the green beans to the pan, toss with almonds, and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve.
5. Butternut Squash and Kale Salad
Why You'll Love It: This fresh, vibrant salad is perfect for a light, nutrient-packed side dish. The sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs perfectly with the earthiness of kale, and the tangy dressing ties it all together. Add in some pumpkin seeds for crunch and protein, and you've got a salad that everyone will love. Ingredients:- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes.
- Massage kale with olive oil and vinegar until tender.
- Toss roasted squash, kale, and pumpkin seeds together. Serve immediately.
6. Garlic Roasted Carrots
Why You'll Love It: Roasted carrots are naturally sweet and add a beautiful pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread. Tossed with garlic and roasted to perfection, these carrots are simple, healthy, and full of flavor. Ingredients:- 1 lb baby carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss carrots with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Serve warm.
7. Quinoa and Cranberry Salad
Why You'll Love It: This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tartness of cranberries. With a hint of orange and a touch of sweetness, this dish adds a festive feel to your holiday meal while being packed with protein and fiber. Ingredients:- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Combine cooked quinoa, cranberries, orange juice, and olive oil in a large bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper and toss gently.
- Serve chilled.
8. Lemon Garlic Roasted Mushrooms
Why You'll Love It: Mushrooms are a great low-calorie option that adds a savory flavor to your Thanksgiving meal. This dish is simple yet flavorful, combining earthy mushrooms with a zesty lemon garlic marinade. The result is a mouthwatering side dish that pairs well with any main course. Ingredients:- 1 lb baby bella mushrooms, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss mushrooms with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 20 minutes until golden and tender.
- Serve warm.
9. Baked Spaghetti Squash
Why You'll Love It: Spaghetti squash is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. When baked, the strands of squash naturally separate into spaghetti-like threads, making it the perfect base for a healthy side dish. Toss with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan for a savory flavor. Ingredients:- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes, using a fork to scrape out the strands.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and serve.
10. Kale and Sweet Potato Hash
Why You'll Love It: This hearty, savory dish is the perfect combination of tender sweet potatoes and vibrant kale. Sautéed with garlic and onions, this hash is full of nutrients and is a deliciously healthy side dish for Thanksgiving. Ingredients:- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add sweet potatoes and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in kale and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper, then serve.