--- title: "The Healthiest Side Dishes to Serve on Thanksgiving ..." description: "Honey Maple Roasted Carrots; Roasted Asparagus with Garlic and Parmesan; Loaded Potato Casserole; Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta; Creamy Garlic Mushrooms; More ..." url: "https://food.allwomenstalk.com/the-healthiest-side-dishes-to-serve-on-thanksgiving/" category: "food" last_updated: "2026-06-02" --- # The Healthiest Side Dishes to Serve on Thanksgiving ... Thanksgiving is no time to diet, but that doesn't mean you should go crazy on the fat and calories. While you should definitely go ahead and enjoy your side dishes, you can lighten things up by choosing dishes that are heavy on the veggies and light on the cream, cheese and such. Of course, in moderation, anything is just find on Thanksgiving. Enjoy! ## 1. Honey Maple Roasted Carrots ![Honey Maple Roasted Carrots](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/d4/qg/fhcjbw3z56461bdb2d20a422986720_536x800.jpg) Source: [Honey Maple Roasted Carrots](https://thecafesucrefarine.com/honey-maple-roasted-carrots/) You've never tasted carrots this good before! ## 2. Roasted Asparagus with Garlic and Parmesan ![Roasted Asparagus with Garlic and Parmesan](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/lm/rx/f8y8qipy56461bdb6a918881924967_600x800.jpg) Source: [Roasted Asparagus with Garlic and](https://www.bobbiskozykitchen.com/2014/09/roasted-asparagus-with-garlic-and.html) Asparagus adds a gourmet touch to your Thanksgiving table. ## 3. Loaded Potato Casserole ![Loaded Potato Casserole](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/fn/th/gv8skria56461bdbac626745220007_447x859.jpg) Source: [Loaded Potato Casserole - Gal](https://www.galonamission.com/loaded-potato-casserole/) Skip the mashed potatoes and gravy and serve this instead. It's not exactly diet food, but better than fat and calorie loaded gravy. ## 4. Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta ![Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/tx/ej/u40dkz0g56461bdbd6523367400863_550x811.jpg) Source: [Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with](http://peasandcrayons.com?ref=allwomenstalk.com) Check out the festive colors of this delicious side dish. ## 5. Creamy Garlic Mushrooms ![Creamy Garlic Mushrooms](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/p5/dg/of8v870d56461bdd3c8d7317961552_600x927.jpg) Source: [25 LIP SMACKIN' SUPER EASY](https://www.buzzfeed.com/lovefoodies/25-lip-smackin-super-easy-sides-for-thanksgiving-pf6x) You aren't going to want to eat a pound of these, but a few are perfectly fine. ## 6. Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts ![Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/dq/kq/afqek10256461bdc994ed118397445_525x788.jpg) Source: [Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Roasted](https://www.cookingclassy.com/garlic-lemon-parmesan-roasted-brussel-sprouts/?crlt.pid=camp.kQg0yyX4Jt02) This hearty side dish is low in calories and won't require you to sacrifice flavor. ## 7. Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad _ Source: Easy Thanksgiving Meals: Cranberry Orange_ This is super easy to throw together and your guests will love it. ## 8. Roasted Butternut Squash, Onions, and Red Potatoes with Fresh Herbs ![Roasted Butternut Squash, Onions, and Red Potatoes with Fresh Herbs](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/u7/dg/yp7ab3af56461bdd97954230671247_600x600.jpg) Source: [50 Healthy Holiday Side Dishes](https://www.theroastedroot.net/50-healthy-holiday-side-dishes/) Can't give up the potatoes? This healthy side lets you enjoy them without guilt. ## 9. Spinach Mashed Potatoes ![Spinach Mashed Potatoes](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/rt/qo/k2v78fik56461bde64de4792341435_600x900.jpg) Source: [Spinach Mashed Potatoes Chef in](https://www.chef-in-training.com/spinach-mashed-potatoes/) Give your potatoes some extra nutrition with a handful or two of fresh spinach. Yum! ## 10. Roasted Carrots and Parsnips ![Roasted Carrots and Parsnips](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/pf/ll/l8zykqcc56461bddc5d6e634620836_560x798.jpg) Source: [Roasted Carrots and Parsnips](https://www.afamilyfeast.com/roasted-carrots-parsnips/) Roasted root veggies are the iconic Thanksgiving side dish. ## 11. Roasted Fall Vegetables ![Roasted Fall Vegetables](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/yz/mk/mcvapcoi56461bde78b80171191023_600x900.jpg) Source: [How To Set The Perfect](https://cityfarmhouse.com/2013/11/how-to-set-the-perfect-thanksgiving-table-the-inspiration-exchange-features.html) Roasted veggies save you tons of fat and calories because you don't need too much cooking oil. ## 12. Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Pistachios, Cranberries & Parmesan ![Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Pistachios, Cranberries & Parmesan](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/zr/mh/w70gt26556461bde83de9244934738_534x800.jpg) Source: [cookincanuck.com](https://www.cookincanuck.com/shredded-brussels-sprouts-recipe-pistachios-cranberries-parmesan/) You might not love Brussels sprouts, but shaved like this really minimizes the bitterness. ## 13. Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Squash with Dried Cranberries and Dijon Vinaigrette ![Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Squash with Dried Cranberries and Dijon Vinaigrette](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/b8/pb/refq7cmp56461bded8321585003382_600x872.jpg) Source: [Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Squash](https://goo.gl/ABuQhO) The sauce on this adds so much delicious flavor! ## 14. Rosemary Roasted Carrots ![Rosemary Roasted Carrots](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/f7/fm/yhv6wy0i56461bdf10e51722478770_600x704.jpg) Source: [Rosemary Roasted Carrots Recipe](https://ohmyveggies.com/rosemary-roasted-carrots/) Rosemary brings out the natural sweetness of fresh carrots. ## 15. Stuffed Onions ![Stuffed Onions](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/sc/im/ona8egmu56461be13f975898242385_600x904.jpg) Source: [Provencal Style Stuffed Onions](https://theviewfromgreatisland.com/provencal-style-stuffed-onions/) Never thought to serve stuffed onions? You are going to change your mind fast once you try these. ## 16. Simple Creamed Kale ![Simple Creamed Kale](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/ce/dp/s3v3eadz56461be151f03140138992_600x900.jpg) Source: [Creamed Kale Nutmeg Nanny](https://www.nutmegnanny.com/creamed-kale/) Creamed veggies aren't generally your best bet, but compared to other Thanksgiving side dishes, this one is pretty nutrient rich. ## 17. Firehouse Green Beans ![Firehouse Green Beans](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/dy/tb/zmg8lff056461be190adc534860081_600x900.jpg) Source: [Green Beans with Bacon &](https://julieblanner.com/firehouse-green-beans/) Green beans are a Thanksgiving table staple and you'll love this version. ## 18. Maple Roasted Butternut Squash and Beets ![Maple Roasted Butternut Squash and Beets](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/cy/sd/vg0ebus956461be08664a659954425_600x900.jpg) Source: [Maple Roasted Butternut Squash and](https://www.theroastedroot.net/maple-roasted-butternut-squash-beets/) The color and earthy flavor of these veggies make them the perfect side dish. ## 19. Light and Healthy Garlic Lemon Green Beans ![Light and Healthy Garlic Lemon Green Beans](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/us/vd/cn9mta0x56461be0d8df4556160492_600x890.jpg) Source: [Garlic Lemon Green Beans](https://shewearsmanyhats.com/garlic-lemon-green-beans/) These fresh green beans are packed with flavor, but low in fat and calories. ## 20. Garlic & Herb Smashed Potatoes ![Garlic & Herb Smashed Potatoes](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/b3/cd/i99np6o156461be162193833959073_533x800.jpg) Source: [yourhomebasedmom.com](https://www.yourhomebasedmom.com/25-gluten-free-thanksgiving-dishes/) Pump up your mashed potatoes with fresh herbs, which add flavor and nutrition. ## 21. Quinoa Salad ![Quinoa Salad](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/te/ux/bc96gkc95648ee8c3d577374469510_500x750.jpg) Source: [Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dish](https://todaysmama.com/food/healthy-thanksgiving-side-dish) All the best things about fall come together in this salad. ## 22. Cranberry Apple Stuffing ![Cranberry Apple Stuffing](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/su/g7/nwoet6z556461be3c9c0b518585653_600x903.jpg) Source: [houseofyumm.com](https://houseofyumm.com/crockpot-cranberry-apple-stuffing/) It's still stuffing, but the cranberries and apples add lots of vitamins and minerals and cut the calorie count. ## 23. Sweet Potato & Cauliflower Mash ![Sweet Potato & Cauliflower Mash](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/cx/gj/tqtpkw2d56461be3d7e1d366543770_600x900.jpg) Source: [Sweet Potato & Cauliflower Mash](http://thefitfork.com/sweet-potato-cauliflower-mash-more-healthy-recipes/) I'm dying to try this, aren't you? ## 24. Orange Glazed Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash ![Orange Glazed Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/w9/r6/mnjanm8156461be49a65c060920839_600x1197.jpg) Source: [Orange Glazed Brussels Sprouts &](http://heartbeetkitchen.com/2013/recipes/orange-glazed-brussel-sprouts-butternut-squash/) You'll never want to have Thanksgiving without this side dish ever again. ## 25. Parmesan Garlic Roasted Mushrooms _ Source: Parmesan Garlic Roasted Mushrooms_ These meaty mushrooms are low in calories, but big in flavor. ## 26. Sweet Potato Casserole ![Sweet Potato Casserole](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/ks/tx/mduulmbg564620190a51b518237861_400x600.jpg) Source: [17 Healthy Thanksgiving Sides](https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2010/11/17-healthy-thanksgiving-sides/66525/) It's not really Thanksgiving without sweet potato casserole. ## 27. Butternut Squash and Cauliflower Casserole ![Butternut Squash and Cauliflower Casserole](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/us/dt/x5d5cffh56461be458a7c567047342_500x644.jpg) Source: [alldayidreamaboutfood.com](https://alldayidreamaboutfood.com/butternut-squash-cauliflower-casserole) This is something new that you'll never regret serving. ## 28. Rosemary Garlic Mashed Cauliflower ![Rosemary Garlic Mashed Cauliflower](https://resize.allw.mn/1028x0/filters:format(webp)/filters:quality(70)/content/dd/j2/a7fp1r2p56461be4d5c91817059196_600x600.jpg) Source: [Rosemary Garlic Mashed Cauliflower The](https://www.thecookierookie.com/rosemary-garlic-mashed-cauliflower/) Not having potatoes this year? This is the perfect alternative! Which one will be on your Thanksgiving table this year? ## Related Posts - [food substitutes](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/food-substitutions-that-will-save-you-a-trip-to-the-store/) - [bacon tattoo](https://beauty.allwomenstalk.com/you-wont-believe-these-food-tattoos-actually-exist/) - [ensalada caliente](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/the-best-hot-salads-thatll-fill-you-right-up/) - [acesulfame pronounce](https://diet.allwomenstalk.com/you-have-to-try-these-healthy-sugar-substitutes/) - [fitgirls](https://diet.allwomenstalk.com/the-ultimate-grocery-guide-for-fit-girls/) - [choline foods](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/these-are-jamie-olivers-hero-foods/) - [snacks to eat on the go](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/clean-eating-snacks-you-can-always-eat-on-the-go/) - [highest source of lycopene](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/what-are-the-foods-richest-in-lycopene/) - [dirty hangover food](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/the-best-foods-to-nurse-a-nasty-hangover/) - [low claorie meals](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/low-calorie-comfort-food-to-fill-you-up-but-not-out/) - [10 Healthy Dinner Ideas ...](https://cooking.allwomenstalk.com/healthy-dinner-ideas-2/) - [7 Healthy Salads to Eat Daily ...](https://diet.allwomenstalk.com/healthy-salads-to-eat-daily/) ## Site Information - [Main page](https://allwomenstalk.com) - [Contact us](https://allwomenstalk.com/contact.html) - [HTML article](https://food.allwomenstalk.com/the-healthiest-side-dishes-to-serve-on-thanksgiving/)