What To Know
- While turkey and dressing are the stars of the show, they deserve to be accompanied by a delectable ensemble of side dishes that complement their flavors and create a truly memorable meal.
- Whether you prefer a classic homemade version or a store-bought variety, cranberry sauce is an essential side dish that will brighten up your plate.
- Roasted with a touch of balsamic vinegar and bacon, Brussels sprouts become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a burst of earthy flavor.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and a feast fit for royalty. While turkey and dressing are the stars of the show, they deserve to be accompanied by a delectable ensemble of side dishes that complement their flavors and create a truly memorable meal.
The Perfect Pairing: Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving staple that adds a tart and tangy balance to the savory turkey and dressing. Whether you prefer a classic homemade version or a store-bought variety, cranberry sauce is an essential side dish that will brighten up your plate.
Creamy Delight: Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a comforting and versatile side dish that can be dressed up or down to suit your taste. Whether you prefer them creamy and smooth or with a hint of lumps, mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that will soak up all the delicious gravy.
Roasted Perfection: Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a colorful and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Carrots, parsnips, turnips, and beets take on a caramelized sweetness when roasted, creating a delightful contrast to the other dishes.
Green Envy: Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts have undergone a culinary renaissance in recent years, and for good reason. Roasted with a touch of balsamic vinegar and bacon, Brussels sprouts become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a burst of earthy flavor.
Sweet and Savory: Candied Yams
Candied yams are a sweet and savory side dish that adds a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving table. Glazed with a mixture of brown sugar, butter, and spices, candied yams are a perfect complement to the rich flavors of turkey and dressing.
Festive Flair: Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing is a Thanksgiving tradition that adds a hearty and flavorful dimension to your meal. Made with crumbled cornbread, savory herbs, and a touch of sweetness, cornbread stuffing is an irresistible side dish that will disappear quickly.
A Touch of Spice: Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that has become synonymous with Thanksgiving. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy fried onions, green bean casserole is a comforting and nostalgic dish that will warm your heart and soul.
The Perfect Accompaniment: Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls are an essential side dish that provides a soft and fluffy canvas for all the delicious flavors on your plate. Whether you choose classic white rolls, buttery yeast rolls, or fragrant herb rolls, dinner rolls will complete your Thanksgiving feast.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I make any of these side dishes ahead of time?
A: Yes, many of these side dishes can be prepared in advance. Cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and roasted root vegetables can all be made a day or two before Thanksgiving and reheated on the day of.
Q: What are some vegetarian or vegan side dish options?
A: Roasted root vegetables, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls can all be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting the meat or dairy products.
Q: How do I store leftover side dishes?
A: Leftover side dishes should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Most side dishes will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
