As the weather cools and the holiday season approaches, many of us are looking for creative ways to make our Thanksgiving tables shine. While turkey and mashed potatoes are always a staple, there’s no reason why your veggies can’t take center stage too! In fact, a colorful array of roasted, sautéed, or baked vegetables can add texture, flavor, and visual appeal to your holiday spread.
In this article, we’re excited to share 20 delicious and healthy Thanksgiving vegetable recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic favorites like roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes to innovative twists on green beans and cauliflower, these dishes offer a perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and festive flair. So grab your apron and get ready to make some unforgettable side dishes this Thanksgiving!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate a humble vegetable to new heights with this sweet and tangy recipe. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a rich and complex flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While the sprouts roast, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, reducing by half (about 10 minutes).
6. Once the sprouts are done roasting, drizzle with the reduced balsamic glaze and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Herb Mashed Cauliflower
A flavorful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe brings together the creaminess of cauliflower with the pungency of garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or used as a low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, garlic, chicken broth, and parsley. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Sweet and savory, these carrots are perfect as a side dish or added to salads.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey and thyme.
3. Add sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the honey-thyme mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange carrot slices in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the carrots and sprinkle with salt.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
This classic comfort food casserole combines the richness of cream cheese with the tender sweetness of spinach and artichokes. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped artichoke hearts and spinach until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
4. Combine cooked spinach mixture with cream cheese mixture and stir well.
5. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a staple in many cuisines, but add the warm, comforting flavor of maple syrup and you’ll be hooked! This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness in sweet potatoes with a hint of maple goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
4. Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
5. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the maple-olive oil mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Bean Almondine
A deliciously simple and flavorful side dish that combines blanched green beans, toasted almonds, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 4-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.
3. In a small skillet, toast the sliced almonds over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned and fragrant.
4. In a large serving dish, combine the blanched green beans, toasted almonds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes blanching time)
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This classic casserole is a staple of American comfort food, bringing together the flavors of tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and milk. Mix well.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add grated cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Pour the cheesy mixture over the rice-broccoli mixture and mix until combined.
5. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb Roasted Root Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple and flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of root vegetables. By roasting them with a blend of herbs, you’ll create a delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, sweet potato, parsnip, garlic, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary until they’re evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 14-17 minutes
Corn Pudding with Fresh Herbs
Savor the sweet essence of fresh corn and herbs in this delightful side dish, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Fresh herbs: chives (1/4 cup chopped), parsley (1/4 cup chopped)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, melted butter, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Add corn kernels and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in chopped chives and parsley.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle grated cheese on top (if using).
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cranberry Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash
This seasonal recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the tanginess of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, creating a delicious and nutritious side dish perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 small to medium-sized acorn squashes
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together cranberries, walnuts, and brown sugar.
4. Stuff each squash half with the cranberry mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed squashes and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the squashes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of butternut squash and the earthy flavor of sage to create a deliciously comforting side dish perfect for any season. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delightful combination in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash and cut it in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out the seeds and pulp, then place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash, then sprinkle with chopped sage.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Roasted Carrot and Parsnip Medley
Warm up with the sweet and spicy flavors of this colorful medley, perfect for a cozy dinner or a holiday side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together carrots and parsnips.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
4. Spread the medley in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. During the last 10 minutes of roasting, drizzle with honey.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Zucchini Gratin
Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this creamy, cheesy baked zucchini gratin. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a show-stopping side for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss zucchini slices with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Arrange half of the zucchini mixture in the prepared dish.
5. Sprinkle 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the zucchini.
6. Pour heavy cream over the cheese.
7. Repeat layers, starting with the remaining zucchini mixture, then the remaining cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sauteed Green Beans with Garlic and Lemon
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your meal with this easy and delicious recipe. Quick-cooked green beans are infused with the richness of garlic and a squeeze of lemon, making for a perfect side dish or addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, then add the green beans in batches if necessary (do not overcrowd).
3. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the green beans start to tenderize and develop some browning.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the green beans and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and spicy roasted Brussels sprouts recipe, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the sprouts during the last 2 minutes of roasting.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Turnips
Elevate your mashed potato game with this creamy and aromatic side dish, featuring roasted garlic and turnips. The sweetness of the turnips pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and cubed
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the turnip cubes with 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Meanwhile, roast the garlic cloves in a small bowl for 15-20 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
5. In a large pot, combine the roasted turnips, roasted garlic, chicken broth, and remaining butter. Mash until smooth.
6. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings (such as grated cheese or chopped herbs).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful bell peppers filled with flavorful quinoa and herbs make a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with parsley, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the quinoa.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan and Paprika
Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan and Paprika Recipe
Roast cauliflower to bring out its natural sweetness, then elevate it with the savory flavors of parmesan cheese and smoky paprika. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes get a delicious makeover with this simple recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or as a side dish for any occasion. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and a sticky cinnamon glaze is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, butter, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from the oven and brush with the cinnamon glaze.
5. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Summary
Get ready to add some delicious and healthy twists to your Thanksgiving menu with these 20 festive vegetable recipes! From classic roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze to innovative cauliflower mash and sweet potato casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Try honey glazed carrots with thyme, creamy spinach and artichoke casserole, or maple roasted sweet potatoes for a taste of autumn. Plus, don’t miss out on the fun and colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa and herbs. These recipes are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table!
Leave a Reply