Thanksgiving is all about tradition, but who says we can’t shake things up a bit? If you’re ready to break free from the usual mashed potatoes and green bean casserole, then you’re in for a treat! Non traditional thanksgiving side dishes are the perfect way to elevate your holiday meal and impress your guests. Imagine a vibrant quinoa salad bursting with roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet cranberries, all tossed together for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s not just about changing the menu; it’s about creating a memorable experience around the table. Trust me, these unique side dishes will have everyone talking long after the last bite. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
Ingredients for Non Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dishes
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
How to Prepare Non Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Getting ready for these non traditional Thanksgiving side dishes is super simple and totally rewarding! Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish that shines on your holiday table. Let’s make magic happen with some vibrant quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a medley of flavors!
Step 1: Rinse the Quinoa
First up, you’ll want to rinse your quinoa under cold water. This is super important because it helps remove the natural coating called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste. Just place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and give it a good rinse until the water runs clear. Easy peasy!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a pot and combine your rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover it with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The quinoa will soak up all that flavorful broth, and you’ll be left with perfectly fluffy grains!
Step 3: Mix in Other Ingredients
Once your quinoa is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool slightly. Then, add in your roasted Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Drizzle everything with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss it all together gently, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Serve it warm and watch everyone dig in!
Tips for Success with Non Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dishes
To really nail this dish, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, don’t be afraid to customize—feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like roasted sweet potatoes or grilled asparagus instead of Brussels sprouts. They’ll bring their own unique twist!
If you want to make it even heartier, toss in some cooked chickpeas or black beans. And remember, you can absolutely prepare this ahead of time; just assemble everything and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, gently reheat it on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.
Oh, and taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking because every palate is different. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your non traditional Thanksgiving side dishes to a whole new level!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique flavors that will surprise and delight your guests.
- Vegetarian-friendly and packed with nutritious ingredients.
- Easy preparation that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect balance of textures with crunchy pecans and tender Brussels sprouts.
- A vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving table that breaks away from tradition.
- Leftovers taste amazing and can be enjoyed for days!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for this delightful dish! Each serving (1 cup) is estimated to contain around 250 calories, 10g of fat, 8g of protein, and 35g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy your healthy twist on Thanksgiving!
FAQ About Non Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients together and store them in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
What can I serve this with?
This quinoa dish pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty vegetarian main. It adds a colorful touch to your holiday spread!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick reheat before enjoying it again.
Can I substitute the quinoa?
Sure! If you’re not a fan of quinoa, feel free to use farro, couscous, or even rice. Each grain will bring a different texture and flavor!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your delicious non traditional Thanksgiving side dishes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days, making them perfect for post-holiday enjoyment! When it’s time to dig in again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Just be sure to cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Enjoy those fabulous flavors once more!
Serving Suggestions for Non Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dishes
This vibrant quinoa dish is super versatile, so let’s talk about what to pair it with! It complements roasted turkey beautifully, adding a splash of color and flavor to your plate. If you’re keeping it vegetarian, serve it alongside a savory mushroom Wellington or a flavorful lentil loaf. Don’t forget a crisp green salad to round out the meal! Trust me, these combinations will make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable!
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Non Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dishes for a Memorable Feast
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Unique side dishes for Thanksgiving that break away from tradition.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water.
- In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pecans.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss to combine and serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- This dish can be made ahead of time.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: non traditional thanksgiving side dishes
