The holidays are a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, but hosting can be overwhelming. Between prepping the main course, setting the table, and welcoming guests, there’s hardly time to focus on side dishes. Fortunately, some quick and easy holiday side dish recipes can save the day, letting you serve a delicious meal without the hassle. Here are a few recipes and ideas to make your holiday hosting smooth and enjoyable.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
A classic holiday favorite, roasted Brussels sprouts add a lovely pop of green to any holiday table. This dish is simple, flavorful, and can be ready in no time.
Ingredients
- Fresh Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Balsamic vinegar
- Honey or maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the Brussels sprouts in half, toss them in olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and slightly crispy.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar mixed with honey or maple syrup over the top before serving.
With minimal ingredients and prep time, these balsamic Brussels sprouts are sure to be a hit and can be prepared quickly, letting you focus on other elements of your meal.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a holiday staple, and adding garlic gives them a delicious twist. This recipe is quick and flavorful, ideal for busy hosts.
Ingredients
- Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Butter
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes until soft, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and return them to the pot.
- Mash with butter, cream, and garlic until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
These creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a comfort food favorite that pair well with any main course. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and reheat when needed.
Cranberry Orange Relish
A fresh and fruity addition, cranberry orange relish is a no-cook side dish that’s perfect for busy hosts. It adds a tangy sweetness to the holiday spread and can be prepared in minutes.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange, peeled and sectioned
- Sugar to taste
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend the cranberries and orange sections until finely chopped.
- Add sugar to taste, and blend again until combined.
This relish is bright and festive, balancing the richness of other holiday dishes. Make it a day or two in advance, and it will be ready to serve when guests arrive.
Simple Green Bean Almondine
Green bean almondine is a classic side that combines the crunch of almonds with tender green beans. It’s quick to prepare and adds a touch of elegance to your holiday meal.
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans, trimmed
- Sliced almonds
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
- In a skillet, toast almonds in butter or olive oil until golden brown.
- Add the green beans and sauté briefly, adding salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice.
Green bean almondine is light and fresh, adding a vibrant color and crunch that balances heavier holiday dishes.
Classic Stuffing with a Twist
Stuffing is an essential side dish for any holiday meal. Adding mushrooms and herbs gives it a gourmet touch, and it’s surprisingly quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- Bread cubes (stale or toasted)
- Onion, diced
- Celery, chopped
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Fresh herbs (parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme)
- Vegetable or chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté the onions, celery, and mushrooms until tender.
- Toss with bread cubes, herbs, and enough broth to moisten.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes.
Stuffing is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it an ideal side dish for busy holiday hosts.
These quick and easy holiday side dish recipes will keep your holiday meal stress-free and delicious. From savory roasted veggies to refreshing cranberry relish, these dishes bring color and flavor to the table, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy dinner, these sides make it simple to create a memorable meal.