The turkey may take center stage, but you can't go wrong with these 40 ideas Healthy Thanksgiving Sides to complete the feast! Everything from sweet potatoes to cranberry sauce...I've got you covered.
This list of healthy Thanksgiving sides is just what you need for the big feast! I know what you're thinking. Thanksgiving is only once a year, so why not dive into all of the buttery, cream-laden goodness with abandon? I hear you! But...what if the healthy Thanksgiving side dishes tasted just as good as the not-so-healthy options? And what if you're craving mashed sweet potatoes or dressed-up green beans on any other day of the year?
And chances that there will be at least someone at your holiday table with dietary restrictions. There are quite a few options for special diets in this list, whether that's gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, keto, paleo or low fat. Keeping all of the guests happy in one fell swoop!
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Tips for making healthy Thanksgiving sides
1. PREPARATION IS KEY
Plan your menu in advance, and make a shopping list to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients.
Consider preparing some dishes a day or two ahead to ease the workload on Thanksgiving day. I usually make a batch of Instant Pot applesauce, a loaf or two of zucchini bread, a saucepan of homemade cranberry sauce and the herb butter for the turkey at least one day in advance. It makes Thanksgiving Day far less busy!
2. HEALTHY COOKING TECHNIQUES
It’s amazing how much calorie- and fat-cutting you can get away with – without your family noticing a thing. My rosemary mashed potatoes, homemade sausage stuffing, shredded Brussels sprouts and green beans are all great options for lightening up your feast.
Experiment with herbs, spices, and citrus to enhance flavors without relying on excessive salt or butter.
Serve a fall salad and fresh veggies, like green beans, to balance out the more decadent foods.
3. INGREDIENT SWAPS
Substitute whole grains for refined ones, like brown rice instead of white, or whole wheat bread instead of white bread in stuffing.
Choose Greek yogurt over sour cream for a healthier alternative in dips and dressings.
4. HYDRATION STATION
Keep guests hydrated with infused water or fruit sparklers. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also helps balance out the richness of holiday dishes.
5. ALLERGIES & DIETARY RESTRICTIONS
Clearly label dishes with common allergens to help guests with dietary restrictions navigate the feast safely.
Ask guests in advance about any specific dietary needs to ensure everyone has a variety of delicious options.
If you make any of these recipes, I'd love to see them on Instagram! Just use the hashtag #COOKINCANUCK or tag me @cookincanuck in your stories, and I'll be sure to find your photos.
Healthy Thanksgiving Sides:
Vegetable Sides:
Spiced Pumpkin Puree with Carrot {Masala Herb}
Cranberry Glazed Carrots {With Food & Love}
Roasted Butternut Squash with Apples, Tart Cherries & Walnuts {Allergy Free Alaska}
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts {Recipes From a Pantry}
Za'atar Roasted Carrots {A Cedar Spoon}
Sweet potatoes/yams Recipes:
Maple Sweet Potato Casserole {Amy's Healthy Baking}
Paleo Scalloped Sweet Potato with Maple Orange Glaze {Noshtastic}
Sweet & Salty Roasted Sweet Potatoes {Julie Blanner}
Potatoes:
Easy New Potatoes Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes {Eating Richly}
Healthy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes {Healthy Seasonal Recipes}
Hummus Mashed Potatoes {Gimme Some Oven}
Stuffing Recipes:
Cauliflower Low Carb Paleo Vegan Stuffing {Food Faith Fitness}
Keto Spicy Sausage & Cheddar Stuffing {All Day I Dream About Food}
Butternut Squash & Leek Stuffing {Love & Lemons}
Best Ever Wild Rice Stuffing {Iowa Girl Eats}
Vegan Stuffing with Mushrooms {Veggie Inspired}
Salad Recipes:
Barley Butternut Squash Salad {Running to the Kitchen}
Brussels Sprouts Kale Salad {Foolproof Living}
Roasted Winter Vegetable Quinoa Salad with Cider Vinaigrette {The Roasted Root}
Sauces:
The Best Instant Pot Applesauce with Apple Brandy {Healthy Slow Cooking}
Bread Recipes:
Gluten-Free Vegan Teff Oat Rolls {Healthy Slow Cooking}
Disclosure: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
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