25 Wholesome Thanksgiving Side Dishes That Steal the Spotlight from the Turkey

November 3, 2025 admin

# 25 Wholesome Thanksgiving Accompaniments That Outshine the Turkey

Thanksgiving is an occasion for uniting with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and enjoying a lavish meal. Though the turkey may be the star, the side dishes have the potential to enhance the dining experience significantly. Here are 25 wholesome Thanksgiving accompaniments that not only pair beautifully with turkey but can also take the spotlight.

## 1. Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
A protein-rich salad featuring quinoa, dried cranberries, and roasted pecans, dressed with a light vinaigrette.

## 2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Crunchy roasted Brussels sprouts adorned with a zesty balsamic reduction, providing a satisfying crunch and flavor.

## 3. Sweet Potato Mash with Greek Yogurt
Smooth mashed sweet potatoes crafted with Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost and tangy taste, topped with cinnamon.

## 4. Green Bean Almondine
Crisp green beans sautéed with garlic and topped with toasted almonds for a nutty finish.

## 5. Cauliflower Gratin
A healthier variant of classic gratin, utilizing cauliflower instead of potatoes and a mix of cheeses for creaminess.

## 6. Wild Rice Pilaf
A hearty wild rice pilaf combined with sautéed onions, celery, and herbs, delivering a nutty taste and chewy texture.

## 7. Stuffed Acorn Squash
Halved acorn squash filled with a blend of quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and spices, baked until tender.

## 8. Maple Roasted Carrots
Sweet and savory roasted carrots coated with maple syrup and thyme, adding a vibrant touch to the table.

## 9. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms
Savory mushrooms stuffed with a blend of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, baked to perfection.

## 10. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
A low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes, this dish merges steamed cauliflower with garlic and a hint of cream.

## 11. Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
An eye-catching salad featuring roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and arugula, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette.

## 12. Lentil and Vegetable Stew
A robust stew prepared with lentils, carrots, celery, and spices, ideal for a warm and satisfying side.

## 13. Roasted Root Vegetables
A selection of root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, roasted with olive oil and herbs.

## 14. Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Fresh broccoli baked in a rich cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture.

## 15. Zucchini and Corn Fritters
Crispy fritters made with shredded zucchini and sweet corn, served with a yogurt dipping sauce.

## 16. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
An innovative take on cranberry sauce, infused with orange zest and a hint of cinnamon for enhanced flavor.

## 17. Savory Stuffing with Whole Grain Bread
A nourishing stuffing crafted with whole grain bread, sautéed vegetables, and herbs, baked until golden.

## 18. Grilled Vegetable Platter
A vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection and drizzled with a balsamic reduction.

## 19. Pumpkin Soup
A creamy pumpkin soup spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, served warm for a cozy side.

## 20. Apple and Walnut Salad
A light salad with mixed greens, sliced apples, walnuts, and a refreshing vinaigrette.

## 21. Herb-Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes tossed with fresh herbs and garlic, providing a tasty and fulfilling side.

## 22. Ratatouille
A classic French dish crafted with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, simmered to perfection.

## 23. Collard Greens with Garlic
Tender collard greens sautéed with garlic and a splash of vinegar, delivering a nutritious and tasty option.

## 24. Butternut Squash Risotto
Creamy risotto made with arborio rice, roasted butternut squash, and Parmesan cheese for a luxurious side dish.

## 25. Chilled Cucumber and Yogurt Salad
A refreshing salad composed of cucumbers, yogurt, dill, and garlic, ideal for counterbalancing the richness of the meal.

These 25 wholesome accompaniments not only enrich the Thanksgiving feast but also offer a variety of flavors and textures that can outshine the turkey. Celebrate the abundance of the season and partake in a meal that honors both health and flavor!