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Thanksgiving meals are rooted in tradition, but incorporating some fresh, seasonal side dishes can bring new excitement to the holiday spread while maintaining a budget-conscious mindset. Whether you are planning a get together with friends and co-workers, or looking to venture beyond the normal spread for your family holiday gathering, Here are six creative side dishes featuring ingredients like butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries to complement your Thanksgiving feast.
Maple-Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans and Cranberries
This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the earthiness of squash, topped with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries.
Ingredients:
- Butternut squash cubes
- Maple syrup
- Olive oil
- Pecans
- Dried cranberries
Toss squash with olive oil and maple syrup, roast until tender, then sprinkle with toasted pecans and cranberries just before serving.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate and Apples
Skip the typical roasted Brussels sprouts and try a refreshing salad featuring shaved sprouts, juicy apples, and pomegranate seeds.
Ingredients:
- Fresh Brussels sprouts (shaved thin)
- Apples (thinly sliced)
- Pomegranate seeds
- Walnuts
- Apple cider vinaigrette
Combine the ingredients and toss with a tangy vinaigrette. This bright, crunchy dish offers a nice contrast to heavier Thanksgiving mains.
Creamy Pumpkin Risotto
Pumpkin risotto adds a creamy, savory element to your holiday table, offering a subtle seasonal flavor.
Ingredients:
- Arborio rice
- Pumpkin purée
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter
Slowly add broth to the rice while stirring, then mix in pumpkin purée and Parmesan for a rich, comforting dish.
Cranberry-Orange Relish with Fresh Ginger
Using ginger adds a zesty spin on the classic of cranberry sauce. Don’t let the ingredient list scare you – it’s about balancing tart cranberries with sweet citrus and a hint of ginger.
Ingredients:
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange (with peel)
- Fresh ginger
- Sugar
Pulse everything in a food processor for a quick, flavorful relish. Let it sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Brown Butter
Delicata squash is easy to prepare since the skin is edible. Roasting it with sage and brown butter elevates the flavor.
Ingredients:
- Delicata squash (sliced)
- Fresh sage leaves
- Butter (browned)
- Salt and pepper
Drizzle browned butter over roasted squash slices and garnish with crispy sage for a beautifully aromatic side.
Herbed Wild Rice with Mushrooms and Leeks
This hearty side dish features earthy mushrooms and fragrant herbs, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional rice.
Ingredients:
- Wild rice blend
- Mushrooms (sautéed)
- Leeks (sliced)
- Fresh thyme and parsley
Cook the rice separately, then fold in the sautéed mushrooms, leeks, and herbs for a delicious, earthy side that pairs well with turkey.
These six dishes feature seasonal produce and fresh flavors that complement any Thanksgiving meal. Whether you’re looking for a new favorite or just want to mix things up, these sides will impress your guests and highlight the best of autumn’s bounty.
