A lotta work goes into cooking a stellar bird (although our Simple Dry-Brined Turkey Breast with Sage is surprisingly simple). But we do ave a confession: We really have goo-goo eyes for Thanksgiving side dishes. These “Nourish”ing sides may be supporting players, but they'll steal the spotlight from Mr. Turkey. And that should make you feel just fine about helping yourself to seconds.
Roasted Delicata Squash with Thyme
This side dish is deceptively simple (and downright gorgeous), yet the copious amount of thyme give it a nuanced depth of flavor that makes it a stunner for the Thanksgiving table.
Caramelized Turnips with Miso Butter
This recipe turns humble turnips into wowza wowza. Caramelization creates a flavorful coating and tender insides, while the miso butter brings a lovely richness.
Orange-Marinated Beets
If you've got a spiralizer, break it out for this stunning — yet simple — dish. Whether you choose red or gold beets, the spiraly lengths of gem-colored veggies makes a gorgeous presentation, and the orange marinade brings a bright, festive flavor.
Susie's Breadcrumb Stuffing
Make this stuffing a day or two ahead, spoon it into a baking dish, cover and refrigerate. Then on T-Day, spoon some pan drippings from the turkey over the stuffing and pop it into the oven to bake while the bird rests.
Sweet Potato Puree with Honey and Crispy Shallots
No Thanksgiving side dishes are complete with the sweet potatoes. Traditional sweet potato casserole grows up this marshmallow-free puree sweetened with just a touch of honey.
Grandma Friese's Whole Cranberries
In our world, cranberry sauce does not come from a can. Our six-ingredient version uses fresh, seasonal cranberries paired with port wine for a boozy kick.
Swiss Chard with Orange & Almonds
This hearty cool-weather salad works as a side dish — and as a vegetarian-friendly holiday main dish.
Crispy Mustard-Coated Brussels Sprouts
This was the Brussels sprouts recipe that won my daughter over. A slightly piquant mustard glaze brings loads of flavor, while a finish with crispy breadcrumbs brings crunch.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Shallots
This is one of my go-to weeknight dishes … but it's so good — and so stunning — that it transitions beautifully to the Thanksgiving table.
Spiced Quinoa
This Spiced Quinoa checks all the boxes — it's got a beautiful golden hue that will brighten your holiday table, it's the perfect backdrop to the main and other sides (not too boring, not too over the top), and it's gluten-free.
Oven-Steamed Beets with Cumin and Coriander
These beets are always a showstopper. Gem-colored cubes dressed with a vinaigrette flavored with warm spices … they love to steal the show.
