Thanksgiving is a time-honored American holiday that brings families and friends together to share a bountiful feast. At the center of this festive meal is the star of the show: the turkey. But what else should you serve alongside this savory bird to create a well-rounded and satisfying Thanksgiving dinner? In this article, we’ll explore the classic dishes and modern twists that pair perfectly with turkey, ensuring your holiday meal is nothing short of spectacular.
Classic Thanksgiving Sides
When it comes to traditional Thanksgiving sides, there are a few dishes that are sure to make an appearance on most tables. These classic accompaniments complement the rich flavor of the turkey and add depth to the overall meal.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a comforting and familiar side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey. To make the fluffiest, most flavorful mashed potatoes, be sure to use high-quality potatoes, such as Russet or Yukon Gold, and add in some aromatics like garlic and onion. Don’t forget to include some grated cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream to give your mashed potatoes an extra boost of flavor.
Stuffing (or Dressing)
Stuffing, also known as dressing, is a Thanksgiving staple that can be cooked inside the turkey or in a separate dish. This mixture of bread, vegetables, and seasonings is a great way to soak up the juices of the turkey and add some extra texture to the meal. Try using a combination of white and whole wheat bread, sausage, apples, and herbs to create a delicious and savory stuffing.
Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic Thanksgiving side dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This simple casserole consists of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and french-fried onions, making it a comforting and satisfying addition to the meal.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a sweet and tangy condiment that provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the turkey and sides. To make a delicious homemade cranberry sauce, combine fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, water, and a splash of orange juice. You can also add in some grated orange zest and cinnamon to give the sauce an extra boost of flavor.
Modern Twists on Classic Sides
While traditional sides are always a hit, it’s also fun to mix things up and try some new and exciting dishes. Here are a few modern twists on classic sides that are sure to impress your guests.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious side dish that can be elevated to new heights with the addition of crispy bacon and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Simply toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. Then, top with crispy bacon and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory side dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
Sweet potato casserole is a classic Southern side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. To give this dish a modern twist, try adding a crunchy pecan streusel topping. Simply combine cooked sweet potatoes with sugar, eggs, and spices, and top with a mixture of pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Bake until the streusel is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are tender and creamy.
Maple-Glazed Carrots with Harissa and Pine Nuts
Carrots are a delicious and healthy side dish that can be elevated to new heights with the addition of a sweet and spicy maple glaze. Simply toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. Then, drizzle with a mixture of maple syrup, harissa, and lemon juice, and top with toasted pine nuts for a sweet and savory side dish.
Other Delicious Options
In addition to the classic sides and modern twists, there are many other delicious options you can serve alongside your Thanksgiving turkey. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Gravy
Gravy is a savory sauce made from the pan drippings of the turkey and some flour or cornstarch to thicken. It’s a great way to add some extra flavor to the meal and soak up the juices of the turkey. To make a delicious homemade gravy, be sure to use the pan drippings from the turkey and some high-quality broth or stock.
Rolls and Biscuits
Rolls and biscuits are a delicious and comforting addition to the meal. Try serving warm, fluffy dinner rolls or flaky, buttery biscuits to soak up the juices of the turkey and sides.
Salads and Soups
If you want to offer a lighter option or a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meal, consider serving a salad or soup. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great option, or you could try serving a warm and comforting soup like butternut squash or creamy tomato.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a time to come together with loved ones and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With these classic sides, modern twists, and other delicious options, you’ll have everything you need to create a memorable and mouth-watering Thanksgiving feast. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember.
Final Tips and Variations
Before you start cooking, here are a few final tips and variations to keep in mind.
Make Ahead
Many of the dishes on this list can be made ahead of time, which can help reduce stress and make the day of the meal more enjoyable. Consider making the cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and sweet potato casserole a day or two in advance, and refrigerate or freeze until the big day.
Variations for Dietary Restrictions
If you have guests with dietary restrictions, don’t worry! There are plenty of options on this list that can be adapted to suit their needs. For example, you can make a gluten-free stuffing by using gluten-free bread, or offer a vegan option by substituting the turkey with a plant-based alternative.
Leftovers
Finally, don’t forget to plan for leftovers! Consider sending your guests home with a few containers of turkey and sides, or use the leftovers to make some delicious new dishes, like turkey sandwiches or soup.
What are some traditional side dishes that go well with turkey on Thanksgiving?
When it comes to traditional side dishes that pair well with turkey on Thanksgiving, there are several options to consider. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice, as they provide a comforting and filling complement to the rich flavor of the turkey. Stuffing, also known as dressing, is another popular side dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including bread, vegetables, and herbs. Green beans are also a common side dish, often served in a casserole with cream of mushroom soup and french-fried onions.
Other traditional side dishes that go well with turkey on Thanksgiving include sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and squash. Sweet potatoes can be baked or mashed and are often topped with marshmallows or a streusel topping. Cranberry sauce provides a tangy and refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the turkey, while squash can be roasted or mashed and is often seasoned with herbs and spices. These side dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures that complement the turkey and add to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
What are some non-traditional side dishes that can add some excitement to the Thanksgiving table?
For those looking to add some excitement to the traditional Thanksgiving menu, there are many non-traditional side dishes to consider. One option is roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze, which provides a sweet and savory flavor combination. Another option is sweet potato gnocchi with brown butter and sage, which offers a creative twist on traditional mashed sweet potatoes. Grilled or roasted cauliflower with lemon and garlic is also a tasty and healthy side dish option.
Other non-traditional side dishes that can add some excitement to the Thanksgiving table include maple-glazed carrots, wild rice pilaf with dried cranberries and pecans, and roasted butternut squash with apple cider glaze. These side dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures that can add some excitement to the traditional Thanksgiving menu and provide a refreshing change of pace for guests. They can also be made ahead of time, which can help reduce stress on the big day.
What are some tips for cooking the perfect turkey on Thanksgiving?
Cooking the perfect turkey on Thanksgiving requires some planning and attention to detail. One of the most important tips is to thaw the turkey slowly and safely in the refrigerator, allowing about 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. It’s also important to brine the turkey before cooking, which can help keep it moist and add flavor. When cooking the turkey, it’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Another tip for cooking the perfect turkey is to not overstuff it, as this can prevent the turkey from cooking evenly and increase the risk of foodborne illness. It’s also a good idea to tent the turkey with foil during cooking to prevent overcooking and promote even browning. Finally, be sure to let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving, which allows the juices to redistribute and the turkey to stay moist and tender.
How can I make sure my Thanksgiving sides are ready at the same time as the turkey?
One of the biggest challenges of cooking a Thanksgiving meal is ensuring that all of the sides are ready at the same time as the turkey. One way to achieve this is to plan ahead and make a schedule for cooking each side dish. Start by determining how long each side dish will take to cook, and then work backwards to determine when each dish should be started. For example, if the turkey will be done at 2pm, and the mashed potatoes take 30 minutes to cook, start the potatoes at 1:30pm.
Another way to ensure that your sides are ready at the same time as the turkey is to use a variety of cooking methods, such as roasting, boiling, and sautéing. This can help spread out the cooking time and reduce congestion in the kitchen. It’s also a good idea to make ahead any side dishes that can be refrigerated or frozen, such as cranberry sauce or green bean casserole. This can help reduce stress on the big day and ensure that everything is ready at the same time.
What are some ideas for using up leftover turkey after Thanksgiving?
One of the best things about Thanksgiving is the leftovers, and there are many creative ways to use up leftover turkey. One idea is to make turkey sandwiches, which can be served on a variety of breads and topped with a range of condiments and toppings. Another idea is to make turkey soup, which can be simmered with vegetables and noodles for a comforting and filling meal.
Other ideas for using up leftover turkey include making turkey pot pie, turkey tacos, and turkey salad. Turkey pot pie is a hearty and comforting dish that can be made with leftover turkey, vegetables, and gravy, topped with a flaky crust. Turkey tacos are a fun and easy meal that can be made by shredding the leftover turkey and serving it in tacos with a range of toppings. Turkey salad is a healthy and refreshing option that can be made by mixing diced turkey with mayonnaise, herbs, and spices, and serving it on a bed of greens.
How can I make my Thanksgiving meal more special and memorable?
There are many ways to make your Thanksgiving meal more special and memorable, from the food and drinks to the decorations and activities. One idea is to create a special menu that reflects your family’s traditions and preferences. This could include making a few special dishes that are only served on Thanksgiving, or using family recipes that have been passed down through the generations.
Another way to make your Thanksgiving meal more special and memorable is to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This could include decorating the table with candles, flowers, and a special centerpiece, or playing music that is meaningful to your family. You could also plan some special activities, such as going for a walk or playing games, to enjoy together as a family. Finally, be sure to take plenty of photos to capture the memories of the day and create a special album or scrapbook to treasure for years to come.
What are some ideas for making Thanksgiving more enjoyable and stress-free for the cook?
One of the best ways to make Thanksgiving more enjoyable and stress-free for the cook is to plan ahead and make a list of all the dishes that need to be prepared. This can help you stay organized and focused, and ensure that everything gets done on time. Another idea is to delegate tasks to other family members, such as setting the table or making a side dish. This can help spread out the workload and make the day more enjoyable for everyone.
Other ideas for making Thanksgiving more enjoyable and stress-free for the cook include making ahead any dishes that can be refrigerated or frozen, and using convenience foods or shortcuts to reduce the amount of cooking time. You could also consider hosting a potluck, where everyone brings a dish to share, or ordering a pre-cooked turkey or meal from a local restaurant or catering service. Finally, be sure to take breaks and enjoy the company of your family and friends – after all, that’s what Thanksgiving is all about!