13 Whole30 Thanksgiving Sides to Keep You on Track
The holidays are notorious for being the most difficult time of year to stick to your healthy eating habits or food resolutions. But sometimes you’re just determined to do the best you can. We know that you’re already a pro at cooking Whole30 dinner recipes throughout the week, so preparing healthy dishes for the holidays should be a piece of cake. Since roasted turkey is already pretty Whole30-friendly, all you have to worry about is politely saying no to Grandma’s famous stuffing and you’re off scot-free. We did all the research, so keep scrolling to find 13 delicious Whole30 side dishes to keep you on track this Thanksgiving.
1. Lemony Green Beans With Lemon Juice and Lemon Zest: These fresh and tangy blanched green beans offer bright flavors to an otherwise heavy meal. Don’t be shy with the lemon juice and zest — they’ll really pump up the volume. (via Kalyn’s Kitchen)
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon: Thanks to sugar-free bacon (who knew bacon had so much sugar?!), you can still have your favorite veggie side on Thanksgiving. Roast the sprouts with bacon, garlic and red onion for an autumnal dish that stands out from the crowd. (via The Real Food Dietitians)
3. Coconut Oil Roasted Beets: Beets, coconut oil and salt are the only three ingredients in this dish. Fans of the root vegetable will rejoice in the simplicity of preparation, which allows the flavor of the beets to really shine. (via Happy Healthy Mama)
4. Green Bean Casserole: Green bean casserole is arguably the most tempting dish at holiday parties. Unfortunately, it can often be full of unhealthy ingredients. Since you’re not sure how aunt Shirley prepares her recipe, play it safe with your own Whole30-appropriate version. (via Kelley and Cricket)
5. Italian Roasted Mushrooms and Veggies: It’s no secret that Thanksgiving sides can be a bit… repetitive. Try something new with these Italian seasoned vegetables and mushrooms that are slow roasted to perfection. (via Jo Cooks)
6. Roasted Garlic, Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Mash: Roasting your garlic gives it a nutty sweetness that echoes the flavors of pumpkin and sweet potato. There’s zero dairy in this mash, and it’s totally vegan, Paleo and Whole30-friendly. (via Better With Cake)
7. Paleo Broccoli Slaw Recipe: Utilizing pre-made broccoli slaw mix makes for a quick and easy prep for this side. Just whisk together your own Paleo dressing and add sliced almonds to complete the raw veggie dish. (Tastes of Lizzy T)
8. Shaved Carrot Salad With SuperSeed Cilantro Pesto, Pomegranate Seeds and Toasted Hazelnuts: Non-Whole30 Thanksgiving guests will be surprised at how much they love this salad. Be sure to make enough, because it’ll be on everyone’s plate. (via Blissful Basil)
9. Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Mashed Cauliflower: Avoid the lure of Grandma’s luscious mashed potatoes with this shockingly similar cauliflower recipe. Bonus: It’s prepared in the slow cooker, so it’ll require minimal effort. (via Wicked Spatula)
10. Spicy Roasted Cabbage Wedge: Maybe Brussels sprouts aren’t your jam, but you’re cool with cabbage. Roast it and top with a chili pepper vinaigrette to add a little spice to your Thanksgiving meal. (via Skinny Ms.)
11. Stuffed Squash With Sausage and Apple: Whether you make it with delicata, acorn or butternut squash, this side dish will be a Thanksgiving side sensation. This is a great alternative to the bread-laden stuffing you’re used to. (via A Calculated Whisk)
12. Whole30 and Vegan Sweet Potato Noodles and Apple Spinach Salad With Almond Dijon Vinaigrette: Salads are a *must* for every dinner party, especially Thanksgiving. Might as well make it festive with added spiralized sweet potato and apple. (via Food Faith Fitness)
13. Whole30 Potatoes With Rosemary and Garlic: Potatoes are NOT the enemy in the Whole30 lifestyle. When prepared in the correct way, they can be a healthful and delicious addition to your Thanksgiving plate. (via Bravo for Paleo)
Follow us on Pinterest for more easy + delicious recipe ideas.
