Thanksgiving is all about coming together, sharing delicious food, and creating memories. But if you’re looking for gluten-free Thanksgiving sides that don’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe features a vibrant quinoa dish that’s not only gluten-free but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect balance of hearty and healthy, making it the star of your holiday table. Trust me; your guests will be raving about these gluten-free Thanksgiving sides long after the last bite. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Ingredients for Gluten Free Thanksgiving Sides

To whip up this delightful quinoa side dish, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

2 cups of quinoa – Rinse it under cold water to remove any bitterness.
4 cups of vegetable broth – This adds a rich depth of flavor.
1 cup of chopped carrots – Fresh and vibrant, they’ll bring sweetness.
1 cup of chopped celery – Adds crunch and a subtle flavor.
1 cup of chopped onions – I love using yellow onions for their sweetness.
1/2 cup of dried cranberries – For a touch of tartness and color.
1/4 cup of chopped pecans – These add a lovely nutty crunch.
2 tablespoons of olive oil – To sauté your veggies and add richness.
1 teaspoon of thyme – A classic herb that complements everything!
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not only gluten-free but bursting with flavor! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Gluten Free Thanksgiving Sides

Preparing this delicious quinoa side dish is a breeze! Let’s walk through the steps together:

First, rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. This little step makes a big difference!
Next, in a pot, bring the 4 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. This is where all the flavor magic happens!
Once boiling, add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and has absorbed the broth.
While the quinoa cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing them until they’re soft and fragrant, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
After that, mix the sautéed veggies with the cooked quinoa in a large bowl. Add in the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Finally, serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare—ready in just 45 minutes!
Deliciously hearty and flavorful, perfect for any Thanksgiving table.
Nutritious and packed with fiber, making it a healthy choice.
Versatile—great as a side dish or a light main course!
Naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it.

Trust me, this quinoa side dish will be a showstopper at your holiday gathering!

Tips for Success

To make this quinoa side dish truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t shy away from adjusting the seasoning—taste as you go, and feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you absolutely can! Just prepare everything up to mixing in the cranberries and pecans, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. Wow, it’s going to be a hit!

Nutritional Information for Gluten Free Thanksgiving Sides

Let’s talk nutrition! This quinoa side dish is not only tasty but also packed with goodness. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:

Calories: 220
Fat: 7g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 150mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy a healthy side that fits perfectly into your Thanksgiving feast!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of this delicious quinoa side dish is super simple! Just make sure to let it cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist and flavorful. You’ll love how it tastes just as good the second time around!

FAQ About Gluten Free Thanksgiving Sides

Got questions about gluten-free Thanksgiving sides? I’ve got you covered!

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa? Absolutely! You can swap quinoa for rice or even farro if you’re not strictly gluten-free.

How can I make this dish ahead of time? Prepare everything up to mixing in the cranberries and pecans. Store in the fridge and warm it up just before serving!

What if I don’t have vegetable broth? No worries! Water works too, but the broth adds so much flavor.

Can I add other veggies? Yes! Feel free to throw in bell peppers, spinach, or whatever veggies you love!

Making gluten-free sides has never been easier or tastier—trust me on this!