Every Thanksgiving table has a turkey, but these 23 sides are what people actually remember. From vibrant salads to buttery casseroles and roasted vegetables, each dish brings its own kind of comfort. They're colorful, flavorful, and easy to make ahead. Whether you serve one or all, these sides might just steal the show.
The Perfect Rice Pilaf
The Perfect Rice Pilaf cooks in about 40 minutes and delivers fluffy grains infused with vegetables and spices. The flavor is savory and subtly nutty, perfect beside any main. It's hearty without being heavy, making it a great balance to turkey. This dish adds texture and color to the Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: The Perfect Rice Pilaf
Russian Piroshki
Russian Piroshki bake in about an hour and come filled with mashed potatoes, mushrooms, or cabbage. The dough is soft and golden with a slightly crisp crust. Each bite feels warm and satisfying. These handheld rolls bring cozy comfort to the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Russian Piroshki
Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe
Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe takes 20 minutes and blends roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon, and garlic into a smoky dip. The flavor is creamy and tangy with a hint of char. It pairs perfectly with bread or fresh veggies. This side adds a Mediterranean twist to traditional Thanksgiving flavors.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe
Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
Indian-Style Okra Curry cooks in 35 minutes and combines okra with tomato, onion, and warm spices. The flavor is bold yet balanced, with a thick, savory sauce. It's a colorful side that brings global warmth to the table. Serve it alongside grains or roasted meats for contrast.
Get the Recipe: Indian-Style Okra Curry Recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)
My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes takes about an hour and blends carrots, dried fruit, and honey into a soft, sweet dish. The taste is earthy with natural sweetness and gentle spice. It's both comforting and nostalgic. This side fits right in with any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad
Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad comes together in 15 minutes and mixes crisp cucumbers with earthy beets in a tangy dressing. The flavor is refreshing with a slight vinegar bite. Its bright color livens up any plate. This salad keeps things light between heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad
Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli And Peppers
Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli And Peppers bake in 30 minutes and bring a mix of tangy, roasted flavor. The lemon brightens the vegetables while keeping them crisp on the edges. It's a simple, vibrant side that works with any main course. Each bite tastes fresh and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Lemon Potatoes, Broccoli And Peppers
Salmon Salad With Bagel
Salmon Salad With Bagel takes 10 minutes and layers smoked salmon, greens, and creamy dressing over toasted bagel pieces. The flavor is rich, salty, and slightly tangy. It feels light yet indulgent. This side doubles as a refined snack before the big meal.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad With Bagel
Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing takes 15 minutes to toss together. The crisp apples, kale, and seeds mix into a crunchy, tangy combination. It's a refreshing balance to heavier sides. This salad adds color and bite to the Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers cooks in 15 minutes and combines tender cabbage with sweet peppers and garlic. The flavor is mild, slightly sweet, and savory. It's a simple but versatile dish that pairs well with anything roasted. This quick side adds texture and color without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cabbage With Peppers
Ukrainian Cucumber Salad
Ukrainian Cucumber Salad comes together in 10 minutes with sour cream, dill, and thin cucumber slices. The taste is creamy, cool, and lightly tangy. It's refreshing between bites of richer dishes. This salad brings balance and freshness to the Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Cucumber Salad
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree take about 40 minutes and bring a bold mix of flavors. The cauliflower turns golden and nutty, while the puree adds a smooth, slightly spiced layer. It's hearty enough to stand alone as a main. This side brings color and depth to the table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Steaks On Spicy Sweet Potato Puree
Quinoa Cucumber Salad
Quinoa Cucumber Salad takes 20 minutes to prepare and combines protein-rich quinoa with crunchy cucumbers and herbs. The flavor is light and nutty with a hint of citrus. It's ideal for guests who want something fresh and filling. This side balances out the richness of traditional Thanksgiving fare.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Cucumber Salad
Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Tahini
Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Tahini cook in 20 minutes and bring smoky edges with creamy tahini drizzle. The flavor is earthy, nutty, and slightly spicy. It's a modern twist on roasted vegetables. This quick side delivers big flavor with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks With Tahini
My Grandma's Recipe for Russian Cured Salmon
My Grandma's Recipe for Russian Cured Salmon cures in about 24 hours and delivers silky slices with salt, dill, and citrus. The flavor is delicate, savory, and balanced. It adds a touch of elegance to the meal. This side is perfect for those who like something refined and different.
Get the Recipe: My Grandma's Recipe for Russian Cured Salmon
Crispy Cucumber Rice Salad
Crispy Cucumber Rice Salad takes 25 minutes and pairs crunchy cucumbers with warm, lightly seasoned rice. The flavor is mild and fresh, with a bit of texture from toasted rice. It's satisfying without being heavy. This side brings a unique mix of comfort and crunch.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Cucumber Rice Salad
Gluten-Free Carrot Soufflé
Gluten-Free Carrot Soufflé bakes in 45 minutes and transforms carrots into a light, slightly sweet dish. The texture is soft and airy with a touch of spice. It's both elegant and homestyle at once. This side bridges sweet and savory beautifully on the Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Carrot Soufflé
Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)
Russian Potato Salad takes about 40 minutes and combines potatoes, eggs, pickles, and peas in a creamy dressing. The flavor is rich yet balanced with a bit of tang. It's hearty and familiar, ideal for holiday gatherings. This salad earns its spot right beside the turkey.
Get the Recipe: Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)
Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)
Russian Vinaigrette Salad takes 30 minutes and blends beets, carrots, and potatoes with light oil and vinegar dressing. The flavor is earthy, tangy, and slightly sweet. Its vibrant color makes it a standout dish. This salad brings a nostalgic touch with modern appeal.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)
Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta
Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta takes 10 minutes and mixes beans, olive oil, herbs, and crumbled cheese. The taste is creamy, salty, and bright with lemon. It's protein-packed yet refreshing. This side adds a Mediterranean freshness to the Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta
Sweet Noodle Kugel with Cognac-Soaked Raisins
Sweet Noodle Kugel with Cognac-Soaked Raisins bakes in 50 minutes and turns noodles into a sweet, custard-like dish. The flavor is creamy with subtle hints of spice and fruit. It feels familiar yet special. This side offers a comforting contrast to savory plates.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Noodle Kugel with Cognac-Soaked Raisins
Maple Tahini Sweet Potatoes
Maple Tahini Sweet Potatoes roast in 30 minutes and pair creamy sweet potatoes with a nutty maple-tahini drizzle. The flavor is earthy, sweet, and balanced. Each bite feels satisfying without being too rich. It's a flavorful upgrade from the usual marshmallow-topped version.
Get the Recipe: Maple Tahini Sweet Potatoes
Gluten Free Stuffing with Mushrooms for Turkey
Gluten Free Stuffing with Mushrooms for Turkey bakes in about 40 minutes and combines hearty bread cubes, mushrooms, and herbs. The texture is moist inside with crisp edges. The taste is savory, aromatic, and deeply comforting. This classic side holds its own next to any turkey.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Stuffing with Mushrooms for Turkey
