Side Dishes that Shine for the Holidays
This week’s focus is on healthier holiday side dishes. You may not think too much about it, but sides play an important role in a meal. They complement the entrée but also provide a healthy dose of nutrient-rich ingredients for a well-rounded meal! ! Take a look at the side dishes below to grace your table with this year.
MEAL ONE:
Baked Latkes
Potato latkes, pronounced “lot-kuhs”, are a traditional side dish for Hanukkah. Just like any holiday dish, every family has a different way that they make latkes, but they are all usually fried in oil. It is traditional to eat fried foods at Hanukkah due to the significance of oil to the holiday (read more here). If you’re looking for a healthier version, this recipe bakes the latkes instead of frying them. However, they are still crispy on the outside and tender on the inside! Latkes are traditionally served with sour cream and applesauce, but you could enjoy plain as well.
MEAL TWO:
Roasted Brussel Sprout Salad
This recipe is not only packed full of nutrients but is delicious too! Remember, filling your plate with vegetable-based dishes around the holidays is a great way to manage weight and feel full and satisfied after meals. The homemade dressing is a great addition to the salad and gives it a sweet, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the Brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes, and cheese.
MEAL THREE:
Honey Roasted Carrots
These are not your usual mushy, cooked carrots! Roasting them in the oven means they are tender but still crisp. The carrots are covered in a honey seasoning that means everyone will be going back for more! They are also easy to assemble, cook, and complement any entrée you’re serving this year. Bon appétit!
MEAL FOUR:
Easy Mushroom Risotto
Risotto is a delicious, creamy rice dish made with a starchy and short-grain rice, like Arborio. The key to a delicious risotto is constant stirring! While that may sound tedious, it all pays off in the end. Enjoy this classic dish as a side to any entrée you’re serving this holiday season.
MEAL FIVE:
Hasselback Sweet Potatoes
Thinly slicing the sweet potato and fanning it out like an accordion makes this an impressive side dish that requires little effort! Brushing a butter, maple syrup and cinnamon mixture in between the slices makes for a tender and flavorful sweet potato that is sure to please.