Christmas Side Dishes: 5 Festive Favorites to Impress

christmas side dishes

By:

Julia marin

Ah, Christmas side dishes! They really make the holiday meal shine, don’t they? I always look forward to the vibrant colors and delicious flavors that accompany the main course. This recipe for roasted green beans, Brussels sprouts, and carrots is a family favorite that adds a touch of festive flair to our gatherings. The way the vegetables caramelize in the oven is just magical! And let me tell you, the addition of cranberries and pecans takes it to another level—trust me, you’ll be the star of the dinner table with this one! Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish that will make your Christmas feast unforgettable!

Ingredients for Christmas Side Dishes

For this colorful and delicious side dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

  • 2 cups of green beans, trimmed and washed for that crisp bite
  • 1 cup of chopped carrots, diced into small pieces for even roasting
  • 2 cups of Brussels sprouts, halved to ensure they cook through nicely
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil, which brings a lovely richness to the veggies
  • Salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning is key!
  • 1 cup of cranberries, adding a sweet-tart pop to each bite
  • 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, providing a delightful crunch

These ingredients will not only fill your kitchen with amazing aromas but also make your holiday table look stunning!

Homvana Humidifiers for Bedroom Home

Homvana Humidifiers for Bedroom Home

CIRCLE JOY Gravity Electric Salt

CIRCLE JOY Gravity Electric Salt

NutriChef Automatic Vacuum Air

NutriChef Automatic Vacuum Air

X&E 6-in-1 Glass Air Fryer

X&E 6-in-1 Glass Air Fryer

How to Prepare Christmas Side Dishes

Getting this delightful dish ready is easier than you might think! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your veggies go in. While that’s warming up, wash and trim the green beans and Brussels sprouts thoroughly—nothing like fresh veggies! Next, chop your carrots into small pieces; this helps them roast evenly alongside the other ingredients.

In a large mixing bowl, toss the green beans, Brussels sprouts, and carrots with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until everything is well-coated. This step is so important for flavor! Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer to allow for that perfect roast. Pop them into the oven and let them roast for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, as the edges should get beautifully caramelized.

Now, here’s the magic moment: during the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the cranberries and pecans over the vegetables. This adds a wonderful sweetness and crunch. Once timer goes off, take them out, and serve hot. Your Christmas side dish is ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
  • Packed with vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
  • Healthy and vegetarian-friendly, making it a guilt-free addition to your feast.
  • The colorful presentation will wow your guests and elevate your table.
  • Versatile enough to pair with any main course, from turkey to ham.

Tips for Success with Christmas Side Dishes

To make your roasted vegetables truly shine, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to roast evenly and get that lovely caramelization. If you’re unsure about the doneness, test a Brussels sprout or carrot with a fork—if it’s tender, you’re good to go! Also, feel free to get creative with herbs—adding thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even more. And if you want to serve this dish warm but not too hot, let it sit for a couple of minutes after roasting; it’ll still be delicious without burning your tongue! Enjoy your festive cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Side Dishes

This roasted vegetable medley pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Try serving it alongside a succulent glazed ham or a juicy roast turkey to create a festive feast. You can also complement it with creamy mashed potatoes or a rich stuffing for added comfort. And don’t forget a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top for an extra touch of flavor! Your holiday table will be bursting with colors and tastes!

Nutritional Information for Christmas Side Dishes

This delicious roasted vegetable side dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy choice for your holiday table! Each serving contains approximately 150 calories, with 10g of fat (only 1g saturated), and 3g of protein. You’ll also get 15g of carbohydrates and 6g of fiber, making it a great option for a balanced meal. Plus, it’s naturally low in sugar and cholesterol-free, so you can enjoy it without any guilt!

FAQ about Christmas Side Dishes

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe? Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re great for reheating!

Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other favorites like sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a unique twist.

What can I serve with these side dishes? These roasted veggies pair perfectly with holiday staples like turkey, ham, or even a hearty vegetarian main dish!

How can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the veggies a day in advance, toss them in oil, and store them in the fridge. Just roast them right before serving!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
christmas side dishes

Christmas Side Dishes: 5 Festive Favorites to Impress


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delicious side dishes for your Christmas feast.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups of green beans
  • 1 cup of chopped carrots
  • 2 cups of Brussels sprouts
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of cranberries
  • 1/2 cup of chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and trim the green beans and Brussels sprouts.
  3. Chop the carrots into small pieces.
  4. In a bowl, mix the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
  6. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes.
  7. Add cranberries and pecans during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
  8. Serve hot as a side dish.

Notes

  • You can add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
  • Adjust roasting time based on vegetable size.
  • Serve with a sprinkle of feta cheese for added taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: christmas side dishes

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating