Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when families gather, hearts are full, and tables are brimming with delicious food. And let me tell you, while the turkey may steal the spotlight, it’s really the side dishes that steal the show! These *thanksgiving food sides* are the perfect companions to your main course, adding color, flavor, and that comforting touch we all crave during the holidays.

Growing up, my family always had a few must-have sides that made their way to the table every year. Green beans roasted to perfection, creamy mashed potatoes that you could just dive into—each bite felt like a warm hug! My mom would always say that a meal isn’t complete without those beloved sides. Trust me, they’re what makes Thanksgiving feel like home. So, let’s dive in and create some memories with these delightful dishes!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these incredible *thanksgiving food sides*. Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking, so you can keep the festive spirit flowing!

• 4 cups of green beans, trimmed and ready to roast
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil for that perfect drizzle
• 1 teaspoon of salt, because we all need a little flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to add some zing
• 1 cup of sliced almonds, toasted for a crunchy topping
• 2 cups of mashed potatoes, fluffy and creamy
• 1/2 cup of milk, to make those mashed potatoes extra smooth
• 1/4 cup of butter, because butter makes everything better
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for that savory kick

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients—these sides are all about making them your own! Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Food Sides

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to get our hands a little messy and create these fabulous *thanksgiving food sides*! Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through every step, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with delightful aromas. Let’s get cooking!

Roasting the Green Beans

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 400°F (200°C). You want it nice and hot to get those green beans perfectly roasted! While the oven heats up, grab your green beans and toss them in a large bowl with the olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every bean gets a lovely coat of that olive oil—this is key for flavor!

Once they’re all dressed up, spread the green beans out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly and get that beautiful, slightly crispy texture. Pop them in the oven and let them roast for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender and have a nice golden hue when they’re done. Wow, the smell will be irresistible!

Preparing the Mashed Potatoes

While the green beans are roasting away, let’s focus on those creamy mashed potatoes. In a pot, combine the fluffy mashed potatoes, milk, butter, and garlic powder. If you want to add a little extra love, feel free to toss in some cheese at this stage. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Turn the heat to medium and stir everything together until it’s warm and creamy. You’ll want to keep stirring gently to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Just a few minutes of this should do the trick! Once it’s nice and smooth, you’re ready to serve! Don’t be shy—taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want those potatoes to be absolutely perfect!

Now that both of our sides are ready, you’re all set to impress your family and friends this Thanksgiving. Get ready for some serious compliments!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your *thanksgiving food sides* turn out absolutely fabulous! I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will elevate your dishes and make the cooking process even smoother. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!

• Add cheese to your mashed potatoes: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some shredded cheddar or parmesan for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a simple tweak that’ll have everyone raving about your mashed potatoes!
• Switch up the green beans: Don’t feel tied to just green beans! Broccoli or Brussels sprouts are fantastic alternatives. Just follow the same roasting method, and you’ll still get that wonderful flavor and texture.
• Use fresh herbs: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to your green beans before roasting. It adds a lovely aromatic touch that screams holiday season!
• Don’t rush the roasting: Keep an eye on those green beans! If they need a little more time, let them roast for an extra few minutes until they’re just right. You want that perfect balance of tender yet slightly crispy.
• Make it ahead: If you’re short on time on the big day, you can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance. Just reheat them gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create sides that shine! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to have fun in the kitchen—after all, that’s what Thanksgiving is all about!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Both the green beans and mashed potatoes come together in under an hour, making your Thanksgiving prep a breeze!
• Flavorful: The combination of roasted green beans and creamy mashed potatoes creates a mouthwatering contrast that everyone will love.
• Vegetarian-friendly: These sides are perfect for all your guests, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal.
• Customizable: Whether you want to add cheese or switch up the veggies, these recipes can easily be tailored to your family’s taste.
• Make-ahead option: The mashed potatoes can be prepared in advance, giving you more time to spend with family and friends on the big day.
• Colorful presentation: The bright green beans and fluffy white mashed potatoes make for a beautiful display on your Thanksgiving table.

Variations

Now, let’s take these *thanksgiving food sides* to the next level with some fun variations! I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these ideas will help you customize your dishes to fit your family’s flavor preferences. Trust me, your Thanksgiving table will be the talk of the town!

• Vegetable Swap: Instead of green beans, try using asparagus or zucchini. Both roast beautifully and add a fresh twist to your meal!
• Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to your mashed potatoes for a pop of flavor. It’s such a simple way to elevate the dish!
• Nutty Crunch: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans over your roasted veggies. It adds texture and a lovely nutty flavor!
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to your green beans before roasting for a hint of warmth. It’ll give them a delicious kick!
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some cream cheese or sour cream into your mashed potatoes for an ultra-creamy texture. Seriously, who can resist that?
• Sweet Touch: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some roasted butternut squash cubes to your green beans. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors!

Feel free to mix and match these variations based on what you have on hand or what your family loves. The best part about these sides is that they’re super flexible, allowing you to create a Thanksgiving feast that’s uniquely yours!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about what you can expect nutritionally from these delightful *thanksgiving food sides*! Remember, these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so they might vary a bit depending on what you use. But hey, a little indulgence during the holidays is totally worth it, right? Here’s a breakdown for a typical serving:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 6g

These sides are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a great addition to your Thanksgiving feast. So, go ahead and enjoy every bite knowing you’re fueling your body with some goodness!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up these delightful *thanksgiving food sides*, let’s talk about how to serve them alongside your main dishes to create a truly memorable meal! The right pairings can elevate your Thanksgiving feast and bring everything together beautifully.

First up, think about the turkey. There’s nothing quite like a juicy, perfectly roasted turkey to steal the spotlight, and these sides are the ideal accompaniments. Imagine a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes alongside a slice of turkey, topped with rich gravy—pure bliss!

If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider serving these sides with a delicious glazed ham or a savory roasted pork. The sweetness of the glaze contrasts so well with the savory green beans and buttery mashed potatoes, creating a wonderful balance of flavors.

And let’s not forget about the vegetarian guests! These sides are absolutely perfect on their own, but you could also serve them with a hearty stuffed squash or a flavorful mushroom Wellington. It adds an extra touch of elegance and makes the meal feel even more special.

Don’t be shy with the presentation either! Arrange the green beans in a lovely serving dish and sprinkle those sliced almonds on top just before serving for a pop of color and crunch. Pile the mashed potatoes high, and maybe even use a fun scoop or a piping bag for a fancy touch. Wow, your guests will be impressed!

Lastly, consider offering a variety of sauces and condiments on the side—think gravy, cranberry sauce, or even a tangy herb vinaigrette for the green beans. It allows everyone to customize their plate and adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the meal.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a Thanksgiving feast that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. So gather your loved ones around the table, share some laughs, and enjoy every moment of this special holiday together!

FAQ Section

Can I make these sides ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture. The green beans are best made fresh, but you can toss them with olive oil and seasonings ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast.

What if I don’t have green beans?
No problem at all! If green beans aren’t your thing or you can’t find them, you can easily substitute them with broccoli, asparagus, or even Brussels sprouts. Just follow the same roasting instructions, and you’ll have a delicious side dish in no time!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover green beans and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the fridge. They should keep well for about 3-4 days. Just remember to reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk to the potatoes if they’ve thickened up.

Can I add other ingredients to the mashed potatoes?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can mix in some roasted garlic for extra flavor, or why not add a splash of sour cream or cream cheese for an extra creamy texture? Chopped herbs like chives or parsley can also add a fresh touch!

How do I know when the green beans are done roasting?
Keep an eye on those beans! They should be tender yet still have a bit of crunch, with a lovely golden color on the edges. If you’re unsure, just taste one; they should be perfectly cooked and flavorful!

thanksgiving food sides that will wow your guests this year

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A variety of delicious side dishes perfect for Thanksgiving dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups of green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 cup of sliced almonds
• 2 cups of mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the green beans on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes.
4. In a pot, combine mashed potatoes, milk, butter, and garlic powder.
5. Heat the mashed potatoes over medium heat until warm and creamy.
6. Serve the green beans topped with sliced almonds and mashed potatoes on the side.

Notes

• You can add cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
• Feel free to substitute green beans with broccoli or Brussels sprouts.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting and Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: thanksgiving food sides