Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and it's time to start making the menu. And, if your family is like ours, the real star isn't the bird. Thanksgiving side dishes always steal the show–they're fun to make, even more fun to eat and there are always several favorites on everyone's list.
Plus, there's even more to love about a great side show. While Thanksgiving dinner is traditionally considered a waistline's worst nightmare, if you load up on healthy side dishes, you'll save calories and feel satisfied, not stuffed (leave that to the turkey).
Check out these healthy Thanksgiving side dish recipes, featuring smart swaps and good-for-you ingredients.
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15 Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Written by
Angela Bekkala
Sweet Potato & Cauliflower Mash
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Try this healthy twist on mashed potatoes from The Fit Fork that boosts both fiber and protein.
Warm Acorn Squash and Wild Rice Salad
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A flavorful side dish from This Runner's Recipes bakes entirely in the oven–including the rice!
Healthier Green Bean Casserole
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Just a couple of simple swaps lighten up a classic casserole from Gimme Some Oven.
Butternut Squash, Cranberry & Apple Bake
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All of fall's best flavors are rolled into this dish, thanks to Happy Fit Mama.
Creamy Mustard Brussels Sprouts
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From Cotter Crunch, a quick pan-fried superfood side is tossed in a creamy vegan dressing sauce.
Creamy Buttermilk Mashed Cauliflower
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Hungry Hobby's trendy take on 'taters is healthy, creamy and downright addictive.
Skinny Sweet Potato Casserole
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Jessica in the Kitchen bakes up proof that a light, healthy and vegan casserole can still bring back holiday memories.
Almond & Cranberry Thanksgiving Slaw
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It's not always chilly on Thanksgiving, so why not serve The Kitchn's crisp, refreshing slaw?
Maple Pecan & Squash Quinoa
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Another simple side from The Fit Fork is filled with flavor, texture and protein.
Butternut Squash & Apple Soup
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Happy Fit Mama's one-pot recipe combines squash and apples for a belly-warming soup.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
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This Paleo and vegan-friendly dish by Food Faith Fitness will be a hit with all your guests.
Slow Cooker Carrots & Parsnips
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No need to worry about finding oven space for this dish. Cotter Crunch's recipe lets you simply set it and forget it!
"Secret Ingredient" Roasted Carrots
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We won't give away Carlsbad Cravings' secret–and you won't want to wait until next year to serve this sweet side again!
Skinny Ambrosia
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Traditional on Thanksgiving tables throughout the south, this light ambrosia from Lemmon Tree Dwelling is just as delicious as its cream-laden counterparts.
Healthy Zucchini Bread
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Trade in rolls for Cookie and Kate's flavorful and nutritious walnut-studded loaf.