Thanksgiving has always been a special time for me, filled with laughter, love, and, of course, an abundance of delicious food. I remember gathering around the table with family, and while the turkey was the star of the show, it was those *thanksgiving cold side dishes* that really stole my heart. They bring a refreshing crunch and vibrant colors to the feast, balancing out all the rich flavors. Whether it’s a crisp salad or a tangy slaw, these cold sides are essential for keeping our taste buds excited and our bellies happy. Trust me, you won’t want to skip them!
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Cold Side Dishes
Here’s what you’ll need for this vibrant and refreshing salad that’s perfect for your Thanksgiving spread. Gather up:
- 2 cups of mixed greens (I love using a mix of arugula and spinach for a peppery kick)
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved (they add a lovely sweetness!)
- 1 cucumber, sliced (for that crisp texture)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (just enough bite to elevate the flavors)
- 1/2 cup of feta cheese, crumbled (because cheese makes everything better!)
- 1/4 cup of olives, pitted and sliced (I prefer Kalamata for their richness)
- 1/4 cup of olive oil (a good quality extra virgin is my go-to)
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar (for a tangy zing)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy, season it well!)
These simple ingredients combine to create a cold side dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Cold Side Dishes
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to create this delightful salad! Don’t worry, it’s super simple and takes just a few minutes. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a beautiful cold side dish ready to impress your family!
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
Start by taking a large bowl and adding in the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives. I like to layer the ingredients so the colors really pop, but you can just toss them all in. Just be gentle while mixing to keep the feta from crumbling too much. It’s all about that lovely texture!
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This dressing is where the magic happens! I usually give it a good whisk until it’s well combined and a little frothy. You’ll want to taste it too—adjust the seasoning if you like a little extra zing!
Step 3: Toss and Chill
Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the salad mixture. Now, the fun part—toss everything together! Make sure all the veggies are coated nicely. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time really allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious when you serve it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Fresh flavors that brighten up any Thanksgiving table
- Healthy and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables
- Beautifully colorful, making your spread visually appealing
- No cooking required, so it’s hassle-free
- Perfect make-ahead option for stress-free holiday planning
- Easily customizable to fit your taste or dietary needs
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your Thanksgiving cold side dishes, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, consider making this salad a day ahead. It gives the flavors time to mingle and deepen, making it even tastier. If you want to switch things up, feel free to add in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch. And don’t forget about the dressing—if you love a bit of sweetness, a drizzle of honey can really enhance the balsamic vinegar. Lastly, always taste before serving; a little extra salt or pepper can work wonders!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delightful Thanksgiving cold side dish is not only tasty but also nutritious! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated values per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
These values are estimates, but they show just how wholesome this salad can be while still being a scrumptious addition to your Thanksgiving feast!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this Thanksgiving cold side dish? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you make the most of this delicious salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time can enhance the flavors. I recommend preparing it a day in advance and storing it in the fridge. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors. It’ll be just as fresh and tasty!
What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers for a sweet crunch, shredded carrots for color, or even some roasted nuts for extra texture. Chickpeas can add protein, and if you’re a fan of fruits, diced apples or pomegranate seeds can bring a nice sweetness!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad may lose a bit of its crunch, but it will still taste delicious! No need to reheat—enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
Serving Suggestions
These Thanksgiving cold side dishes are the perfect complement to your holiday feast! I love serving them alongside a juicy roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham. They also pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or stuffing. For a complete spread, consider adding some warm dinner rolls and a rich gravy. Trust me, the combination of warm and cold dishes creates a wonderful balance that everyone will appreciate at the table!
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Thanksgiving Cold Side Dishes to Brighten Your Feast
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A collection of cold side dishes perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of mixed greens
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup of olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Make it a day ahead for better flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: thanksgiving cold side dishes
