Holidays are all about great food and wearing an outfit that gives you a liiiiitle extra room in the belly area. With that said, it’s nice to balance your meal out with options that are a little lighter. If you’re looking for some tasty side dishes that feel indulgent but won’t leave everyone in a food coma, you’ve come to the right place. These options are simple, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing. Now let’s dive in-
1. Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with a Sweet Balsamic Glaze
Brussels sprouts are a classic, but adding a little spice really takes them up a notch. Just toss your sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, then roast them till they’re nice and crispy. To finish, drizzle with balsamic glaze for that sweet-and-spicy combo that everyone will love.
Try This: Sprinkle with toasted almonds or crispy shallots on top for a little extra crunch.
2. Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Looking for something lighter than mashed potatoes? Mashed cauliflower is a great way to go. Steam your cauliflower until it’s super tender, then blend with a little butter or olive oil, garlic, and some fresh herbs like chives. It’s creamy, garlicky, and totally satisfying without the heavy feel.
Bonus Flavor: Roast the garlic before adding it in and/or toss in some red pepper flakes for a bit of kick.
3. Roasted Sweet Potato and Pomegranate Salad
This side dish is colorful, refreshing, and a little on the sweet side. Roast some diced sweet potatoes, then mix them with fresh pomegranate seeds and pumpkin seeds for crunch. Dress it up with a light dressing of olive oil, lime juice, and a hint of cumin. The sweetness of the potatoes and the tartness of the pomegranate is a perfect match.
Pro Tip: It’s delicious cold too, so you can make it ahead and just pull it out when it’s time to eat.
4. Charred Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon
Green beans, but with a little more pizzazz. Sauté your beans until they’re slightly charred for a nice smoky flavor, then top with slivered almonds and a squeeze of lemon juice. The lemon zest and almonds add just the right amount of crunch and zing.
Flavor Boost: Toss in some red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra hit of flavor.
5. Warm Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
For a gluten-free option that feels hearty, try this cozy quinoa salad. Cook quinoa in veggie broth for added flavor, then mix in dried cranberries and toasted pecans. Add a touch of cinnamon and a light dressing made with apple cider vinegar and honey. It’s a little sweet, a little tangy, and packed with texture.
Garnish Idea: Top with fresh parsley or mint to add a pop of color.
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