Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

Every Thanksgiving, my family gathers around the table, sharing laughter, stories, and of course, a spread of delicious dishes. This year, I’ve decided to highlight the importance of wholesome, vibrant flavors with my Healthy Thanksgiving Sides. These aren’t just any sides; they are a celebration of the season’s best produce and a chance to showcase the creativity that goes into healthy cooking. The joy of pairing seasonal ingredients that evoke warmth and comfort is something I cherish deeply, and I can’t wait to share this journey with you.

Main Ingredients for Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

Creating Healthy Thanksgiving Sides is all about selecting quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. The key players in this recipe are fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and wholesome seasonings that enhance their natural flavors. Each component adds its unique character, contributing to a feast that’s both delicious and nourishing.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that enhances flavor and helps to caramelize vegetables.
• 1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 4 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced: Offers earthiness and texture.
• 1 Yukon gold potato, cut into 1-inch chunks: Creamy and filling, perfect for a hearty side.
• 2 tablespoons tamari (gluten-free soy sauce): A flavorful seasoning that adds umami.
• 1 cup water: Helps to cook the vegetables and create a nice base.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances overall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat.

Putting Together Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

Bringing together Healthy Thanksgiving Sides is a delightful process. As you gather your ingredients and prepare for cooking, the kitchen fills with aromas that evoke the spirit of the season. Here’s how to create this delicious dish in just a few steps.

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about five minutes, or until the onion starts to soften and become translucent. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the dish.
2. Next, add the minced garlic and sliced cremini mushrooms. Stir them for one to two minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Stirring ensures an even cooking process and releases the wonderful aromas.
3. Incorporate the Yukon gold potato chunks into the skillet, followed by the tamari and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Cook for about ten minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Keep an eye on the texture; you want them soft enough to blend smoothly.
5. After the potatoes are tender, carefully transfer the skillet contents to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add the fine sea salt and ground black pepper.
6. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Make sure to use a thin towel to cover the vent on your blender to allow steam to escape while preventing any mess.
7. Once blended, taste the mixture and adjust any seasoning as needed. If you want more depth, a little extra tamari can enhance the flavor.
8. Serve your Healthy Thanksgiving Sides warm over your favorite main dish or as a standalone delight. Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container for up to three to four days in the fridge.
9. When reheating, you may notice it thickens in the fridge. Just add a splash of water to thin it out, but make sure the gravy is warm first!

Recipe Notes about Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

It’s important to keep a few tips in mind while preparing Healthy Thanksgiving Sides to enhance your cooking experience. Here are some suggestions to consider:

• Storage: Leftover sides can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers, but consider freezing them in small portions for easy reheating.
• Pairing: These sides pair excellently with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or as a dip for fresh bread.
• Seasonal Variations: Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables to keep the dish fresh throughout the year.
• Texture Tips: If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the mixture, leaving some pieces whole.

Serving This Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

• Accompanying Dishes: These sides complement beautifully with a range of dishes, including roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or hearty salads.
• Occasions: Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner or holiday gatherings, but delicious any time of year!
• Presentation: Serve in a beautiful bowl, garnished with fresh herbs for an inviting touch.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare these sides in advance, ensuring you have more time to enjoy with guests.
• Seasonal Pairings: Pair with cranberry sauce or a fresh green salad for a complete meal experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Healthy Thanksgiving Sides not only highlight the best flavors of the season but also provide a nourishing option for your holiday table. They are a wonderful way to showcase the abundance of fall produce while ensuring everyone enjoys a hearty, delicious meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a healthy twist to your Thanksgiving feast!

Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

Celebrate the season with these Healthy Thanksgiving Sides, packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. This dish is the perfect balance of taste and nutrition, making it an essential addition to your holiday table. Don't miss out on creating this deliciously easy side for your next gathering!

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Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 4 ounces cremini mushrooms sliced
• 1 (4-6 oz.) Yukon gold potato cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 tablespoons tamari (gluten-free soy sauce)
• 1 cup water
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Blender
• Food Processor
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about five minutes, or until the onion starts to soften and become translucent. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the dish.
2. Next, add the minced garlic and sliced cremini mushrooms. Stir them for one to two minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Stirring ensures an even cooking process and releases the wonderful aromas.
3. Incorporate the Yukon gold potato chunks into the skillet, followed by the tamari and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Cook for about ten minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Keep an eye on the texture; you want them soft enough to blend smoothly.
5. After the potatoes are tender, carefully transfer the skillet contents to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add the fine sea salt and ground black pepper.
6. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Make sure to use a thin towel to cover the vent on your blender to allow steam to escape while preventing any mess.
7. Once blended, taste the mixture and adjust any seasoning as needed. If you want more depth, a little extra tamari can enhance the flavor.
8. Serve your Healthy Thanksgiving Sides warm over your favorite main dish or as a standalone delight. Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container for up to three to four days in the fridge.
9. When reheating, you may notice it thickens in the fridge. Just add a splash of water to thin it out, but make sure the gravy is warm first!

Notes

• Storage: Leftover sides can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers, but consider freezing them in small portions for easy reheating.
• Pairing: These sides pair excellently with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or as a dip for fresh bread.
• Seasonal Variations: Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables to keep the dish fresh throughout the year.
• Texture Tips: If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the mixture, leaving some pieces whole.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.