25 Best Christmas Side Dishes to Complete Your Holiday Dinner
The holiday season is here. It’s time to make a Christmas dinner that wows your guests. A great holiday dinner side can make your meal special. It’s not just the main dish; the right festive side dishes bring warmth and welcome.
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This guide has delicious Christmas side dishes for your feast. Whether it’s a small dinner or a big family event, these Christmas dinner recipes will make your table unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a variety of festive side dishes to complement your holiday meal.
- Explore traditional and modern Christmas dinner recipes.
- Learn how to create a memorable holiday dinner with the right side dishes.
- Get inspired by new ideas for your Christmas side dishes.
- Impress your guests with these delicious and easy-to-make holiday dinner sides.
Creating the Perfect Holiday Feast
A great holiday feast is like a symphony of flavors. Side dishes are key. They add texture, flavor, and beauty to the table.
The Importance of Side Dishes
Side dishes are more than just extras. They make a good Christmas dinner unforgettable. They offer contrast in texture and flavor, making the meal richer.
A crunchy veggie side can go well with a soft turkey. Creamy mashed potatoes can balance the savory taste of a glazed ham.
- Add variety to the meal
- Provide contrast in texture and flavor
- Enhance the visual appeal of the table
Planning Your Christmas Menu
Planning a Christmas menu takes thought. You need to think about timing, flavor balance, and who can eat what. Start by listing the dishes you want to serve.
Then, think about how they’ll work together. Balance rich dishes with lighter options. Make sure there’s a mix of colors and textures. Plan which dishes can be made ahead and reheated.
- Make a list of desired dishes
- Consider timing and oven space
- Balance flavors and textures
- Accommodate dietary restrictions
Classic Vegetable Side Dishes
Choosing the right vegetable side dishes can make your Christmas dinner special. These dishes use seasonal ingredients and creative flavors. They will surely impress your guests.
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a holiday favorite. Adding bacon and cranberries makes it even better. The bacon’s smoky taste and the cranberries’ sweetness are a great match.
Preparation Tips
To get the sprouts caramelized right, cut them in half. Then, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. Add bacon bits for the last 10 minutes to crisp them up.
Flavor Variations
Try using pancetta or prosciutto for a fancy twist. You can also add balsamic glaze or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
2. Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onion Topping
Green bean casserole is a Christmas classic. Adding a crispy onion topping makes it even more appealing.
Traditional vs. Modern Versions
The old recipe uses canned green beans and french-fried onions. But, you can use fresh green beans and homemade crispy onions for a modern twist. Just slice onions thinly and fry until crispy.
| Ingredient | Traditional | Modern |
|---|---|---|
| Green Beans | Canned | Fresh |
| Onions | French-fried | Homemade crispy |
3. Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are sweet and sticky. They go well with many main dishes. The secret is finding the right balance in the glaze.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To prepare ahead, cook the carrots until before glazing. Then, refrigerate or freeze until serving day. Just glaze and reheat.
4. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is rich and creamy. It’s perfect with hearty main courses. Fresh spinach and a bit of nutmeg make it both comforting and fancy.
To make it, sauté garlic and onions first. Then, add fresh spinach until it wilts. Mix in heavy cream and nutmeg, and cook until thickened.
5. Roasted Winter Vegetable Medley
A roasted winter vegetable medley is colorful and healthy. It’s great for the holiday season. Choose seasonal veggies for a dish that looks and tastes good.
Vegetable Selection Guide
Use carrots, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Cut them the same size for even roasting. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 30-40 minutes.
Potato and Root Vegetable Sides
Potato and root vegetable sides are key for a great Christmas dinner. They add flavors and textures that everyone loves. This makes the meal special for everyone.
Classic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a Christmas favorite. They’re comforting and familiar. To get the right texture, use the right potatoes and cook them well.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For smooth mashed potatoes, don’t over-mix. Use the right amount of butter and milk. You can add garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
| Potato Variety | Best For | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Russet | Mashing, baking | Light, fluffy |
| Yukon Gold | Mashing, roasting | Buttery, smooth |
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole is a holiday favorite. The pecan topping adds crunch and nutty flavor. It’s a perfect contrast to the soft sweet potatoes.
Marshmallow vs. Pecan Topping
Marshmallows are traditional, but pecans are a great choice too. Both toppings make the dish delicious in their own way.
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped Potatoes are loved by all. They’re layers of potatoes in a creamy sauce. It’s easy to make ahead, making the day of serving less stressful.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes are simple yet impressive. The mix of roasted garlic and parmesan with the potatoes’ crispy and tender sides is delicious.
Maple Glazed Root Vegetables
Maple Glazed Root Vegetables are tasty and versatile. They highlight the natural sweetness of the veggies. You can pick a mix of veggies like parsnips, turnips, and rutabagas.
Seasonal Root Vegetable Options
Choosing seasonal root veggies makes the dish better. Try carrots, parsnips, and turnips for a colorful and tasty glaze.
| Root Vegetable | Flavor Profile | Best Preparation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Parsnips | Sweet, nutty | Roasting, glazing |
| Turnips | Peppery, slightly sweet | Roasting, boiling |
| Rutabagas | Sweet, earthy | Mashing, roasting |
Stuffing and Grain-Based Sides
Christmas side dishes are exciting, especially stuffing and grains. They make the meal better and add variety. Let’s look at four tasty grain sides that will wow your guests.
Traditional Sage and Onion Stuffing
Traditional Sage and Onion Stuffing is a Christmas classic. It goes great with turkey and ham. The mix of sage and onions makes the bread taste amazing.
Cooking Inside vs. Outside the Bird
Stuffing can be cooked inside the turkey or outside. Inside, it tastes better because it soaks up turkey juices. But outside, it’s safer and gets crispy on top. Here’s what to think about:
- Cooking inside the turkey: More flavorful, but must be careful to keep it safe.
- Cooking outside the turkey: Safer, gets crispy, and easier to manage.
Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing
Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing adds a Southern twist. The cornbread’s sweetness and sausage’s flavor make it a hit. It’s perfect for Christmas dinner.
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries and Pecans
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries and Pecans is fancy and tasty. It looks good and tastes even better. It goes well with turkey and ham.
Festive Quinoa Salad
Festive Quinoa Salad is modern and healthy. It’s colorful and full of nutrients. Quinoa is good for you, making this salad a great holiday choice.
Nutritional Benefits
Quinoa is great for holidays because it’s nutritious. Here’s why:
- Complete protein: Quinoa has all nine amino acids.
- High in fiber: Good for your stomach.
- Rich in minerals: Has iron, magnesium, and potassium.
These grain sides add flavor and texture to Christmas dinner. Choose from traditional stuffing to quinoa salad. There’s something for everyone.
Bread and Roll Options
No Christmas dinner is complete without fresh bread and rolls. The smell of warm bread is a holiday tradition. It brings families and friends together.
Homemade Parker House Rolls
Parker House rolls are a classic for Christmas. They are soft and buttery. Making them from scratch lets you choose the ingredients.
Baking Timeline
| Task | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Prepare Dough | 1 hour |
| Rise Time | 2 hours |
| Bake | 15-20 minutes |
Garlic Cheese Biscuits
Garlic cheese biscuits are a savory twist. They are flaky and flavorful. They pair well with Christmas dinner.
Cranberry Orange Bread
Cranberry orange bread is sweet and fruity. It’s great as a side dish. It’s also perfect for leftover turkey sandwiches or Christmas breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices of cranberry orange bread with your Christmas dinner for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Use leftover bread to make French toast for Christmas breakfast.
- Create sandwiches with leftover turkey and cranberry orange bread for a delicious next-day meal.
Adding these bread and roll options to your Christmas dinner makes it special. They add warmth and flavor to your feast.
Festive Holiday Salads
Christmas salads bring fresh and bright flavors to your holiday table. They offer a nice change from the usual rich dishes. These salads are perfect for adding a burst of freshness and flavor.
Here are three salads that are sure to impress your guests. Each one has a unique mix of ingredients and flavors.
Winter Citrus Salad with Pomegranate
The Winter Citrus Salad with Pomegranate is a feast for the eyes. It has a mix of blood oranges, grapefruits, and clementines. Plus, it has pomegranate arils for a pop of color.
To make this salad, combine the following in a big bowl:
- 2 cups mixed citrus segments (blood oranges, grapefruits, clementines)
- 1 cup pomegranate arils
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cranberry Apple Walnut Salad
The Cranberry Apple Walnut Salad is a mix of sweet and tangy. It has crisp apples, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts. It’s perfect for balancing flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crisp apples | 2 cups |
| Dried cranberries | 1 cup |
| Toasted walnuts | 1/2 cup |
| Tender greens | 4 cups |
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
The Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a sophisticated choice. It pairs sweet roasted beets with creamy goat cheese. It’s perfect for adding elegance to your meal.
To make it, roast the beets until tender. Then, top with goat cheese and peppery greens. A light vinaigrette dressing adds flavor.
Dressing Recommendations
Choosing the right dressing is key for your Christmas salad. For the Winter Citrus Salad, a citrusy vinaigrette is great. For the Cranberry Apple Walnut Salad, a creamy dressing works well. For the Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad, a tangy vinaigrette is best.
25 Best Christmas Side Dishes to Complete Your Holiday Dinner
We’re looking at more tasty Christmas side dishes. These dishes are comforting and elegant. They make your holiday dinner special and fun.
21. Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
Macaroni and Cheese gets a holiday twist with a crispy breadcrumb topping. The secret to great mac and cheese is the cheese you choose.
Cheese Selection Guide
For the best taste, mix cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan. This mix gives a rich flavor that will wow your guests.
22. Creamy Corn Pudding
Creamy Corn Pudding is a sweet side dish from the South. It’s creamy and sweet, adding a nice surprise to your holiday meal.
23. Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Cinnamon
Make your own Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Cinnamon. It’s fresher than store-bought and tastes amazing with turkey or ham.
Fresh vs. Canned Cranberries
Fresh cranberries taste better than canned. They let you adjust the sweetness and spice, making your sauce truly homemade.
24. Glazed Ham Biscuits
Glazed Ham Biscuits are small, tasty treats. They’re perfect for grabbing off the platter. They add elegance to your Christmas table.
25. Butternut Squash Gratin
Butternut Squash Gratin is a creamy, golden dish. It’s delicious and looks great on your holiday table.
Seasonal Variations
You can change this recipe with different squashes or veggies. It’s a versatile dish for any time of year.
Time-Saving Preparation Strategies
Christmas is coming, and hosts face a big challenge in the kitchen. They have to make many dishes. But, with smart planning, you can make it easy and fun.
Make-Ahead Side Dishes
Start by making side dishes early. Many can be done a day or two before. For example, Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries and Creamed Spinach can be made ahead. Then, just reheat them when it’s time to eat.
Here are some tips:
- Make casseroles like Green Bean Casserole a day or two early.
- Make cranberry sauce or other sauces a week before.
- Chop veggies for salads or sides a day before.
Reheating and Serving Tips
Reheating dishes right is key to keeping them tasty. Some dishes do better in the oven, while others are better on the stovetop. Make sure to reheat them to the right temperature for safety and taste.
Here are some reheating tips:
- Use the oven to reheat casseroles at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.
- Reheat creamed dishes on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often.
- Cover dishes with foil to keep them moist during reheating.
With these tips, you can have a wonderful Christmas dinner with your family.
Pairing Side Dishes with Your Main Course
When planning your Christmas dinner, picking the right side dishes is key. The right mix can make your dinner special. It brings out the best in your meal.
For turkey, some great side dishes are roasted Brussels sprouts, green bean casserole, and honey glazed carrots. They add different tastes and textures to your meal.
Traditional Turkey Pairings
Choosing the right sides for turkey is important. They should go well with the turkey’s lean meat and gravy. Here are some good choices:
- Creamed spinach, which adds a rich and creamy element to the meal
- Classic mashed potatoes, a comforting side that absorbs gravy beautifully
- Sage and onion stuffing, a traditional choice that complements turkey’s flavor
| Side Dish | Complementary Feature |
|---|---|
| Creamed Spinach | Rich, creamy texture |
| Classic Mashed Potatoes | Gravy-absorbing, comforting |
| Sage and Onion Stuffing | Traditional flavor complementing turkey |
Ham and Alternative Main Course Pairings
For ham or other main courses like prime rib or beef tenderloin, choose different sides. Ham goes well with cranberry sauce or roasted winter vegetables. Beef pairs well with roasted garlic parmesan fingerling potatoes or wild rice pilaf.
By carefully choosing side dishes for your main course, you make a delicious Christmas dinner. Your guests will love it.
Dietary Accommodations for Holiday Sides
When we gather for the holidays, we must think about everyone’s food needs. More people have special diets now. So, we need to make our holiday food more welcoming to all.
Accommodating Dietary Needs means knowing what each guest can eat. This includes gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets. A few easy changes can make sure everyone feels included.
Gluten-Free Options
Guests with gluten issues can enjoy many sides. Look for foods that don’t have gluten. For example, roasted veggies, quinoa salad, and gluten-free stuffing are all good choices.
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
Making traditional sides vegetarian or vegan is easy. Just swap out animal products for plant-based ones. Using vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter works well.
Also, dishes like roasted veggies, quinoa salad, and lentil sides are already vegetarian. They can also be made vegan with a few tweaks.
As “The key to successful holiday entertaining is making sure everyone feels included.” By offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, we make our holiday table a place where everyone feels welcome.
Conclusion
Christmas dinner planning is here. A good holiday side dish collection makes the meal fun and easy. This article has 25 Christmas side dishes for you.
These dishes have different tastes and textures. They go well with your main course. You can pick from old favorites or new ideas.
These recipes are easy to make ahead. They help you manage your time better. This way, you can enjoy the meal more with your family.
Remember, side dishes make the holiday meal special. They help create memories with your loved ones. Feel free to change the recipes to fit your family’s taste and what you have.
