As the leaves change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, many of us start to think about our favorite fall holiday: Thanksgiving. While the centerpiece of any Thanksgiving meal is often the turkey, a delicious spread of side dishes is what really makes the day special. And what better way to add some flavor and variety to your menu than with a medley of roasted, mashed, and sautéed vegetables?
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering vegetarian recipes that are perfect for the Thanksgiving season. From classic comfort foods like garlic parmesan mashed cauliflower and cheesy scalloped potatoes, to innovative twists on traditional dishes like honey glazed carrots with thyme and cranberry pecan roasted Brussels sprouts, there’s something here for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration for your holiday meal, these recipes are sure to be a hit. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Elevate the humble Brussels sprout to new heights with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while a tangy balsamic glaze adds depth and complexity.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic until evenly coated.
3. Spread sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl.
6. After the sprouts have roasted for 15 minutes, brush them with the balsamic glaze.
7. Continue to roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, savory, and aromatic Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower recipe. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add the cauliflower to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree the cauliflower mixture.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Sweet and savory, these honey glazed carrots are a perfect side dish for any meal. The thyme adds a subtle hint of herbal flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey and olive oil until well combined.
3. Add sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the honey glaze.
4. Sprinkle chopped thyme over the carrots and season with salt to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot slices in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Sweet Potato Casserole
This rich and comforting casserole is a perfect side dish or main course for any occasion, featuring sweet potatoes, cream cheese, and a crunchy marshmallow topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, cream cheese, sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with marshmallows, brown sugar, and chopped pecans (if using).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
Elevate your fall meals with the warm, comforting flavors of maple and roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel, de-seed, and cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar.
4. Add the squash cubes to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the maple mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and toss again to combine.
6. Spread the squash mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Bean Almondine
This elegant yet effortless recipe showcases the perfect union of crunchy green beans, toasted almonds, and a hint of lemon zest. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place green beans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with butter, sprinkle with sliced almonds, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and stir in lemon juice.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb-Roasted Root Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple and flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, sweet potato, and parsnips with olive oil, rosemary leaves, and cumin until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
This recipe yields a rich and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Thinly sliced potatoes, creamy cheese, and a hint of butter come together in a golden-brown delight.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thinly slice potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds.
3. In a large saucepan, combine sliced potatoes, butter, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are slightly tender (about 10 minutes).
4. Transfer potato mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with grated cheese.
5. Pour milk or heavy cream evenly over the potatoes, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and cheesy sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
Elevate your veggie game with this mouthwatering appetizer or side dish, featuring tender asparagus wrapped in crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the asparagus under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. Cut the bacon into strips, about 2 inches long.
4. Wrap each asparagus spear with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Roasted Carrots with Yogurt Dip
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and healthy recipe, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish. The combination of sweet roasted carrots and tangy yogurt dip is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp honey
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, mix yogurt and honey in a small bowl until smooth.
5. Serve roasted carrots with yogurt dip and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Herb Stuffing with Vegetables
This hearty stuffing combines the warmth of herbs with the comfort of roasted vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread, vegetable mixture, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well to combine, then transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your Brussels sprouts game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural bitterness of the sprouts with the richness of cranberries and pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, mix cranberry sauce and chopped pecans in a small bowl.
6. After the sprouts have roasted for 15-18 minutes, remove them from the oven and toss with the cranberry-pecan mixture.
7. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with optional honey if using.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Green Beans
This classic recipe elevates plain green beans to a whole new level with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, these sautéed green beans are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt; add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans to the pan in a single layer; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
Transform ordinary roasted squash into a sweet and savory masterpiece by adding a hint of brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both squash halves.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loaded Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Transform your ordinary mashed sweet potatoes into a decadent side dish with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, diced scallions, grated cheddar cheese, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Top with desired toppings (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Beet Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Peel the cooled beets and slice into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the roasted beet wedges with the balsamic glaze and olive oil mixture.
6. Arrange the mixed greens on a plate, top with the glazed beets, and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves (if using).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this cheesy broccoli casserole is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the steamed broccoli in an even layer.
5. Pour the cheesy mixture over the broccoli.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Roasted Parsnips and Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe featuring roasted parsnips and carrots infused with fresh herbs. This autumnal delight is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss parsnips and carrots with olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Gratin
Spinach and Artichoke Gratin Recipe
A creamy, cheesy gratin filled with spinach, artichoke hearts, and a hint of garlic – perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, sauté the chopped artichoke hearts, garlic, and spinach in butter until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar, Parmesan, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked spinach mixture in an even layer.
5. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the spinach.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the gratin is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the deep flavor of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
– Butter or sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
4. Add roasted garlic, milk or cream (if using), and butter or sour cream (if using) to the potatoes. Mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your Thanksgiving with these delicious vegetable recipes! From roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze to garlic parmesan mashed cauliflower and honey glazed carrots with thyme, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy sweet potato casserole, maple roasted butternut squash, or green bean almondine for a taste of fall. Don’t miss out on cheesy scalloped potatoes, bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles, or spiced roasted carrots with yogurt dip. These 20 recipes are sure to please your guests and make your holiday meal unforgettable.
