Make your Thanksgiving dinner table even more special with these side dishes. They’re so yummy, delicious, and just fun to make.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner. And for many of us, Thanksgiving is a major calorie fest.
In fact, on average, you can expect to eat up to 4500 calories! No wonder your weight creeps up on the scale.
And a lot of those calories come from the sides.
That’s why I’m sharing 27 Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes. Not only are they delicious, but they’re healthy too.
So, you can feel good eating them – instead of feeling like a stuffed turkey.
To save those delicious leftovers, you’ll need to have a good set of food storage containers.
I personally prefer glass containers like these. That’s because food tends to stay fresher in them than plastic containers.
Not really into glass food storage containers? These BPA-free plastic containers are an excellent alternative.
1. Cheesy Garlic Broccoli
Source: allnutritious.com
Not a fan of steamed broccoli? Try my Cheesy Garlic Broccoli instead.
It’s roasted instead of steamed. This causes the broccoli to caramelize.
And caramelization makes your broccoli sweet – instead of bitter. Yay!
You’re also adding cheddar cheese and garlic. So, you get an ooey-gooey mess of cheesiness – and “garlickyness.”
Besides being tasty, this dish is also good for you. Broccoli is chock-full of Vitamin C, which boosts your immune system.
And it contains Vitamin K, which helps your blood clot. It also contains the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin.
These support healthy eyes. So, eat up that broccoli!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 363
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 6.7g
2. Whole30 Mashed Potatoes
Source: aubreyskitchen.com
Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without some mashed potatoes. But homemade mashed potatoes can be lumpy.
And don’t get me started on those instant mashed potatoes. Yuck!
These mashed potatoes are yummy and silky-smooth. The ghee gives them a lovely buttery taste.
And the almond milk makes them creamy.
To get your mashed potatoes silky-smooth, you’ll be using a food processor. A food processor like this makes mashing potatoes so easy.
Besides being tasty, these mashed potatoes are full of nutrition. They’re rich in immune-boosting Vitamin C.
They’re also excellent sources of potassium. So they contribute to healthy blood pressure.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 460
- Fats: 21g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 62g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 3g
3. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Dates
Source: allnutritious.com
Do you hate Brussels Sprouts? My Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Dates may win your heart.
First of all, they’re nothing like the Brussels Sprouts you had as a kid. That’s because they’re sauteed instead of boiled.
So, your Brussels Sprouts are transformed from bitter to sweet. Second of all, you’re sauteeing them in bacon fat.
So, you’re adding lots of savory flavors. Thirdly, you’re adding some dates.
This adds caramel deliciousness. Last but not least, you’re adding crispy bacon.
Need I say more?
Per Serving:
- Calories: 251
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 7.6g
- Carbs: 17g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8.6g
4. Easy Vegan Brown Gravy
Source: eatplant-based.com
Times are changing – and many people are going plant-based. Chances are you know someone who is.
So, it’s good to have some plant-based options for Thanksgiving. This vegan brown gravy is so easy to make.
And it tastes so good – you may never go back to the “real” stuff. The soy sauce and vegan Worcestershire sauce add umami.
And the maple syrup adds sweetness. And the garlic powder, onion powder add savory.
Meanwhile, the smoked paprika adds smokiness. It’s a yummy party in your mouth.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 15
- Fats: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.9g
- Carbs: 2.9g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar:
5. Beet Hummus
Source: allnutritious.com
Looking for another plant-based/vegan side? Try my Beet Hummus.
It is a tasty twist on your traditional hummus. The beets add sweetness and make the hummus light and refreshing.
And the hemp seed topping adds some crunch. You’ll love dipping your veggies into this hummus.
Besides adding sweetness, beets are good for you too. They’re rich in manganese which supports strong bones.
And they contain nitrates which support healthy blood pressure. They also contain substances called betalains which may help fight inflammation.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 491
- Fats: 39g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fiber: 7.8g
- Sugar: 2.3g
6. Easy Air Fryer Green Beans
Source: recipesfromapantry.com
Are you saving your calorie for dessert? Then you’ll want to pile on these Easy Air Fryer Green Beans.
One serving contains only 35 calories. So, you can go for seconds – and still fit into your skinny jeans.
And they’re lightly seasoned in salt. So the wholesome taste of the crunchy green beans shines through.
For extra flavor, you can top with some chopped herbs.
So, what’s the reason why these green beans are so low in calories? Well, for starters, you’re not topping them in butter.
And you’re using very little oil to make them. In fact, all you need is a light spray of a cooking spray like this.
And you’re also using an Air Fryer. So, your green beans come out nice and crispy – without tons of grease.
Don’t have an air fryer to make these green beans? You can get a high-quality air fryer at a reasonable price here.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 35
- Fats: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
7. Green Beans Almondine
Source: therecipewell.com
Can’t get enough of those green beans? Have some of this Green Beans Almondine.
It looks great – and tastes even better. On the menu are lightly cooked greens beans.
And they’ve been tossed in a yummy garlic butter sauce and toasted almonds. Yum!
Who knew greens beans could be so beautiful – and delicious?
Per Serving:
- Calories: 177
- Fats: 14g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 13g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
8. Slow Cooker Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Source: recipesfromapantry.com
Need a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes? These Slow Cooker Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a great option.
They’re creamy, sweet, and super comforting. The cinnamon adds some warmth, and the pecans add a pleasant crunch.
And the addition of salt intensifies the flavors.
What’s great about this dish is the prep. All it takes is 5 minutes to prep.
Just wash, peel, and cube your sweet potatoes. Then add them to your slow cooker, along with some water.
Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Then add maple syrup, dairy-free butter, and maple syrup.
Easy peasy.
Running some errands while cooking? Then it’s best to use a programmable slow cooker like this.
Once your sweet potatoes are done, it automatically switches to warm. That way, your sweet potatoes won’t burn.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 137
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
9. Green Bean Casserole
Source: masalaherb.com
Looking for a veggie dish that’s also low in carbs? This Green Bean Casserole is a great option.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and flavorful. And the baked cheese gives the casserole a nice crust on top.
The Dijon Mustard adds heat too. You’ll definitely want seconds.
Good thing one serving contains only 4 grams of net carbs. So, you won’t be blowing your net carb macros.
Besides being low in carbs, this casserole is nutritious too. It provides 25% of your daily Vitamin A needs.
And it provides 20% of your daily calcium needs. So, it’s great for your bones and your immune system.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 276
- Fats: 25g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
10. Za’atar Roasted Butternut Squash
Source: thishealthytable.com
Tired of regular Butternut Squash? Change things up with this Za’atar Roasted Butternut Squash.
It’s tender and sweet. And the Za’atar seasoning takes things up a notch.
The seasoning adds salty, tangy, and earthy flavors. You’ll want this Za’atar seasoning on everything…just saying.
To make this dish, peel and cube some butternut squash. Then toss it with salt, olive oil, and za’atar seasoning.
Spread it on a parchment-paper-lined sheet pan. Bake for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 84
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
11. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Molasses
Source: omgyummy.com
Looking for a side dish that will make you happy? Give this Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Molasses a try.
It’s full of vibrant colors – just looking at it will make you smile. And it tastes great too.
You’re getting the sweetness of the roasted veggies offset by the tartness of the pomegranate arils.
The walnuts add a lovely crunch. And the yogurt sauce is the icing on top of the cake, ahem, veggies.
It’s creamy and full of Middle Eastern/Mediterranean flavors. Who knew healthy eating could be so exciting?
Per Serving:
- Calories: 129
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
12. Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Source: wowitsveggie.com
Want to make a creamy casserole – without the dairy? Make this Vegan Green Bean Casserole.
It’s savory, creamy, and has yummy umami flavors. Yet, you’re not using any cream.
Instead, you’re using thick non-dairy milk. And the caramelized fried onions make this casserole so irresistible.
Bet you can’t have just one helping. Good thing one serving contains only 152 calories.
So, you won’t get in trouble with your personal trainer.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 152
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
13. Pumpkin & Garlic Naan Bread
Source: inthekitch.net
Did someone say Pumpkin & Garlic Naan Bread? You had me at pumpkin…and garlic…and naan bread.
The aroma of this naan bread will have everyone coming to the kitchen. And the taste? Delicious!
You’re getting the sweetness from the pumpkin puree. And you’re getting the savory from the garlic cloves.
And the honey adds an additional touch of sweetness. Put away the buns…and pass the naan bread.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 226
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
14. Vegan Maple Glazed Carrots
Source: wowitsveggie.com
Did you think carrots were just for rabbits? Think again.
These Vegan Maple Glazed Carrots are off-the-charts delicious. Even meat-eaters will love them.
That’s because you’re using vegetable stock for cooking them. So, you’re getting lots of savory.
You’re also sauteing them in vegan butter. So, they’re nice and creamy.
What’s more, you’re adding maple syrup. This adds even more sweetness.
And these carrots take just 10 minutes to prep. So, they’re ready in a pinch.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 132
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 11g
15. Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole
Source: joyfoodsunshine.com
Need some more vegan eats? This Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole is for you.
It’s full of fall flavors, thanks to the creamy mashed sweet potato base. The cinnamon and nutmeg add lots of warmth.
And the crunchiness of the sweet pecans offsets the creamy base. It’s a yummy combination of textures and flavors.
Besides being tasty, this casserole is quite healthy. It’s packed with immune-boosting Vitamins A and C.
And it’s good for your waistline. That’s because it contains just under 164 calories.
Now that’s a winning combination.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 163.7g
- Fats: 12.9g
- Protein: 1.8g
- Carbs: 11.9g
- Fiber: 2.8g
- Sugar: 5g
16. Vegan Creamed Spinach
Source: spabettie.com
Looking for a plant-based version of a holiday classic? Look no further.
This creamed spinach is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-yummy. You’re getting the savory from the vegan bouillon, garlic, and onion.
And the nutmeg adds a pleasant warmth. Meanwhile, the nutritional yeast adds that lovely umami, cheesy taste.
Nutritional yeast is also nutritious – surprise, surprise. It’s a complete protein.
So, it has all the amino acids that your body needs. And it’s rich in brain-boosting B vitamins.
Besides using it in sauces, you can also add it to your popcorn or pasta. If you’d like to grab some nutritional yeast, you can get some here.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 67
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
17. Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
Source: dudethatcookz.com
Looking for a veggie-packed side dish? This is a great option.
On the men are caramelized sweet potatoes and Brussels Sprouts. And they’re doused in a delightfully tangy, sweet balsamic glaze.
The cinnamon and turmeric add a lovely aroma. Your tastebuds and senses will be delighted – and so will your tummy.
That’s because this dish provides 20% of your daily fiber needs. So, it’s good for your digestion.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 182
- Fats: 8.8g
- Protein: 3.4g
- Carbs: 24.3g
- Fiber: 5.1g
- Sugar: 4.9g
18. Lemony Brussels and Kale Chiffonade Salad
Source: spabettie.com
Salads are a fantastic way to add greens to your Thanksgiving spread. But more often than not, salads don’t get touched.
That’s because they’re often heaps of giant lettuce – with maybe a few cucumbers.
This is a Salad you’ll be glad to eat.
Not only is it tasty, but it’s filling too. You’re getting loads of veggies from the kale and Brussels Sprouts.
And the dried cranberries add sweetness and tartness. Meanwhile, the raw cashews add crunch.
The homemade lemon cider maple vinaigrette makes the flavor pop. Don’t be surprised if there are no leftovers.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 81
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
19. Keto Cornbread Stuffing
Source: fittoservegroup.com
Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without stuffing. But if you’re on a keto diet, you may just need to pass on the stuffing.
That’s because traditional stuffing has a ton of carbs. And carbs are not your friend on a keto diet.
So, what’s a gal (or guy) to do? Have some of this Keto Cornbread Stuffing.
It has all the yummy umami flavors traditional stuffing – minus those dreaded carbs. In fact, one serving contains just 3.1 grams of net carbs.
Now it does take some time to make it. That’s because you’re making homemade keto cornbread first.
But it’s definitely worth the extra effort. Bon appetit!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 470
- Fats: 40g
- Protein: 14.2g
- Carbs: 6.9g
- Fiber: 3.8g
- Sugar: 1.5g
20. Roast Beetroot Salad with Feta and Candied Pecans
Source: wholelottayum.com
Need a salad that your kids will love? This Roast Beetroot Salad is a great option.
The roasted beets add tons of natural sweetness. This balances the bitterness of the arugula.
And the candied pecans are so tasty. Your kids will be popping them in their mouths – so make extra.
The homemade balsamic vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the feta cheese. This salad is a clear winner.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 218
- Fats: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 19g
21. Oven Roasted Cauliflower Parmesan
Source: cubesnjuliennes.com
Looking for another kid-friendly side dish? Here’s another “veggie-filled” dish your kids will love.
It looks and tastes fantastic. The purple cauliflower makes the dish super interesting.
It’s sure to get your kids talking. And the addition of regular cauliflower provides a nice contrast.
And the seasonings, lemon zest, and lemon juice add a Mediterranean twist. So, definitely give this dish a try.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 235
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
22. Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad
Source: suebeehomemaker.com
Looking to take your salad game up a notch or two? This Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad will help you do just that.
It’s colorful, vibrant, and tasty. The raisins and butternut squash add natural sweetness.
And the green onions and chicken broth add savory. The graininess of the quinoa is complemented by the crunchiness of the raisins.
And the Honey Dijon dressing adds some kick. It’s definitely a must.
Want to make this salad vegetarian? Simply use vegetable broth like this instead.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 326
- Fats: 19g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
23. Roasted Parsnips Recipe
Source: cubesnjuliennes.com
Looking for an excellent alternative to roasted potatoes? Try these roasted parsnips.
They’re sweet and savory. And they’re good for you too.
Parsnips are rich in folate and Vitamin C. So, they help build your DNA and your immune system.
They’re even good for your bones. That’s because they contain magnesium.
What’s more, they’re low in calories and rich in fiber. So they can help you lose weight.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 142
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 23g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
24. Shaved Brussels Sprout Slaw
Source: thekitchengirl.com
Time for some Brussels Sprout Slaw. Yes, you read that right.
Instead of cabbage, you’re using shaved brussels sprouts. And it totally works.
It’s full of flavor – yummy flavors, that is. You’re getting the tartness from the cranberries and pomegranate seeds.
And you’re getting sweetness from the apple and red onions. The dino kale provides an earthy nuttiness, while the sunflower seeds give a delightful crunch.
And the homemade dressing is creamy and divine. Who needs regular coleslaw?
Per Serving:
- Calories: 159
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 11g
25. Roasted Delicata Squash
Source: easyanddelish.com
Do you love the flavors of fall? Then you’ll love this Roasted Delicata Squash.
It’s silky, creamy, and sweet. This is balanced by the tartness of the pomegranate.
The cinnamon makes you feel nice and cozy. And the Delicata Squash is topped with creamy Greek yogurt.
It’s perfect for sinking your teeth into.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 105
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
26. Thanksgiving Stuffing
Source: saltandbaker.com
Is it your first time making stuffing? This Thanksgiving Stuffing is a great option.
It is delicious, moist, and classic – and it’s so simple to make.
You’ll want to start by cubing your French bread. Then bake the cubes in an oven for 10 minutes until golden brown.
Then melt some butter in a Dutch oven. This Dutch oven should do just fine.
Once your butter has melted, add diced onions and celery. Cook until soft and season.
Add your cubed bread, coating well. Stir in some chicken broth, mixing well.
Finally, bake for 30 to 40 minutes.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 203
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
27. Roast Pumpkin and Feta Salad
Source: nutriciously.com
Want the creaminess of feta – but don’t eat dairy? Give this Roast Pumpkin and Feta Salad a try.
It’s full of flavor and brightness. And the creaminess of the vegan feta complements the fresh spinach and arugula perfectly.
And the red onions, pears, and pumpkin add a delightful sweetness.
This salad is also high in protein. Just one serving provides 12 grams of protein.
It’s also rich in fiber. In fact, you’ll be getting 30% of your daily fiber needs.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 274
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 19g
