Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes

While the turkey often takes center stage, the side dishes are what truly complete the meal.

This year, elevate your Thanksgiving spread with three healthy side dishes that will impress your guests and satisfy everyone’s taste buds. 

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Why It’s Healthy:

This lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Cauliflower is also low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a hearty dish without the extra calories. Just go easy on the butter. 

Recipe: Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets

• 4 cloves of garlic, unpeeled

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/4 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place the cauliflower florets and unpeeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the garlic is soft.

4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins into a mixing bowl.

5. Add the cauliflower, milk, and additional salt and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with more milk if needed.

6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped chives if desired.

 

2. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Why It’s Healthy:

These stuffed bell peppers are not only colorful and festive but are loaded with protein and fiber from quinoa and black beans. They’re a great vegetarian option that can stand alone as a satisfying side dish.

Recipe: Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers (any color)

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.

4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.

5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

 

3. Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Why It’s Healthy:

Brussels sprouts are nutrient-dense and high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. This recipe combines their natural flavors with the sweetness of maple syrup and the tartness of cranberries, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Recipe: Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.

4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.

5. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the cranberries (and nuts if using) over the Brussels sprouts to warm them through.

6. Serve warm, drizzled with any remaining maple glaze from the pan.

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