Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey—it’s all about the sides! Trust me, the right side dishes can elevate your feast and bring everyone together around the table. I remember my first Thanksgiving dinner with my husband’s family, and I was so nervous about impressing everyone. But when I brought out my creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant green beans, the smiles were worth it! Easy Thanksgiving recipes sides like these not only add color and flavor to your plate, but they also spark conversations and create cherished memories. Plus, these recipes come together quickly, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into these delicious sides that are sure to become your new favorites!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of green beans, trimmed (make sure to snap off those tough ends!)
- 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned—whatever you have on hand works great!)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (I like to use Yukon Gold for their buttery flavor!)
- 1/2 cup of milk (whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use any kind you have)
- 1/4 cup of butter (unsalted is best so you can control the seasoning)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning—it really makes a difference!)
- 1 cup of cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought, both work beautifully)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (this adds a lovely richness to the cranberry sauce)
How to Prepare Easy Thanksgiving Recipes Sides
Preparing these easy Thanksgiving recipes sides is a breeze, and I promise, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen! Let’s break it down step by step, so you can get everything on the table without a hitch.
Boiling the Potatoes
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add your cubed potatoes and let them cook for about 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily slides into a piece. Drain them well and set aside while you tackle the other veggies!
Steaming the Green Beans and Corn
While your potatoes are boiling, grab another pot and set up a steamer basket. Fill it with about an inch of water, and bring it to a simmer. Toss in the trimmed green beans and corn, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes. You want them vibrant and crisp-tender—just peek in to check for that gorgeous green color!
Mashing the Potatoes
Now, let’s get those potatoes mashed! In a large bowl, combine your drained potatoes with milk, butter, salt, and pepper. I like to use a potato masher for a rustic texture, but if you prefer creamier potatoes, a hand mixer works wonders. Just don’t overmix—keep it fluffy!
Preparing the Cranberry Sauce Mix
In a separate bowl, mix your cranberry sauce with a tablespoon of olive oil. This little twist adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Stir until well combined, and you’re all set!
Serving the Dishes
Finally, it’s time to serve! I recommend plating your mashed potatoes and then adding the green beans and corn on the side. Drizzle that lovely cranberry sauce mix on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve everything warm, and watch the smiles appear around the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick—prep and cook time is only about 45 minutes!
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Flavorful combinations that complement your main dish beautifully.
- Vegetarian-friendly, so everyone at the table can enjoy these sides.
- Customizable: feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices!
- These dishes are vibrant and colorful, making your Thanksgiving spread look amazing.
- Perfect for leftovers—these sides taste just as good the next day!
Tips for Success
To really make these easy Thanksgiving recipes sides shine, I’ve got some pro tips that I always swear by! Trust me, they can take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic!
- Elevate Your Mashed Potatoes: If you want to jazz up your mashed potatoes, try adding roasted garlic or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It gives a lovely depth of flavor that everyone will rave about!
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference. A pinch of smoked paprika can also add a warm, smoky flavor to your veggies.
- Herb It Up! Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can really enhance the flavor of your sides. Toss some chopped herbs into the green beans or sprinkle on the mashed potatoes before serving for a fresh touch!
- Mix It Up: Feel free to swap out the corn for peas or add some sautéed mushrooms to the mix. This recipe is super flexible, so use what you love!
- Make Ahead: You can prep your potatoes and veggies a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and reheat before serving. It saves you time and stress on the big day!
These little tweaks can really make a difference, and they’re all about adding your personal touch. Enjoy the process and have fun in the kitchen!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick rundown of the typical nutritional values for each serving of these easy Thanksgiving recipes sides. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and actual values may vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 4g
These sides are not only delicious but also provide a nice balance of nutrients, making them a great addition to your Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I make these sides ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the potatoes and veggies a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and reheat them gently before serving. This is a great way to save time on Thanksgiving day!
What if I don’t have fresh green beans or corn?
No worries! Frozen or canned green beans and corn work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times slightly—frozen veggies may need a minute or two longer to cook through.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, like carrots or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to keep the flavors intact!
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
It can be easily adapted! Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk for the mashed potatoes. You’ll still get all the delicious flavors without the dairy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover easy Thanksgiving recipes sides is simple, and I want to ensure they taste just as good the next day! First things first, once you’ve finished feasting, let your sides cool down to room temperature. This is super important because putting hot food directly in the fridge can raise the temperature inside and affect other groceries. Once cooled, transfer your leftovers to airtight containers—this helps keep them fresh and prevents any funky odors from mingling in your fridge.
You can store these delicious sides in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stove for the best results. Just add a splash of water or a little extra butter to the pan to keep everything moist and flavorful. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to retain moisture, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
And remember, these sides are so versatile! You can also serve them cold if you’re in the mood for a refreshing twist. So, get ready to enjoy those leftovers and savor the flavors all over again!
Print
Easy Thanksgiving Recipes Sides That Will Delight Everyone
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A collection of easy side dishes for Thanksgiving that complement your main meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup of corn kernels
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions
- Boil potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a separate pot, steam green beans and corn for 5-7 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and mash them with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix cranberry sauce with olive oil.
- Serve all sides warm.
Notes
- You can add garlic to mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- Use fresh or frozen green beans and corn.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and steaming
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: easy thanksgiving recipes sides
