Crave-worthy healthy thanksgiving sides Packed with Flavor

Why You’ll Love healthy thanksgiving sides

Thanksgiving is all about gathering, gratitude, and—let’s be honest—great food. But if you’re looking to lighten up your holiday table without sacrificing flavor, these healthy Thanksgiving sides are the perfect solution. They’re vibrant, satisfying, and made with real ingredients that nourish your body while still delivering that cozy, festive feel.

Whether you’re hosting a full feast or bringing a dish to share, these sides are a smart way to balance out the richness of the holiday. They’re also ideal for anyone following a clean eating lifestyle or simply trying to enjoy more low calorie Thanksgiving sides without missing out on tradition.

What makes these dishes extra special is how they celebrate seasonal produce—think roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet carrots, and creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Each one is simple to prepare, easy to love, and guaranteed to earn a spot on your holiday menu year after year.

And if you’re planning ahead for other holidays, you might also enjoy browsing our healthy Valentine’s Day recipes for more inspiration.

Ingredients to make healthy thanksgiving sides

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delicious and clean eating Thanksgiving sides. These ingredients are easy to find and come together to create three flavorful, wholesome dishes that complement any Thanksgiving spread.

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch sticks
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1.5 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt

Time needed to make healthy thanksgiving sides

These paleo Thanksgiving sides come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy holiday prep. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Need more quick and festive ideas? Check out our healthy Labor Day recipes for more seasonal inspiration.

Quick Steps to Make healthy thanksgiving sides

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2

Toss the Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on one baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 3

On the second baking sheet, toss the carrot sticks with honey and thyme until well coated.

Step 4

Roast both pans for 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until vegetables are tender and golden-brown on the edges.

Step 5

Meanwhile, place sweet potato cubes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12–15 minutes or until very tender.

Step 6

Drain the sweet potatoes and return to the pot. Add butter, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Step 7

Drizzle balsamic glaze over roasted Brussels sprouts just before serving.

Step 8

Serve all three side dishes warm, and enjoy a lighter twist on Thanksgiving classics.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Want to make these sides even better? Here are a few tips:

• Use pre-cut veggies to save time on prep.
• Swap honey for maple syrup if you prefer a vegan option.
• Make the mashed sweet potatoes ahead and reheat with a splash of milk.
• Store leftover balsamic glaze in the fridge—it’s great on salads!

Is healthy thanksgiving sides healthy and nutritious ?

Absolutely! These healthy holiday side dishes are packed with nutrients and made with whole ingredients. Let’s break it down:

• Brussels Sprouts: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A. The honey-thyme combo adds flavor without excess sugar.
• Sweet Potatoes: A great source of complex carbs, potassium, and vitamin B6. Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess without heavy cream.

Each serving is under 200 calories, making them ideal low calorie Thanksgiving sides that won’t weigh you down. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for Whole30 or paleo diets.

For more veggie-packed ideas, try our quinoa tabbouleh—a refreshing, nutrient-dense salad that pairs well with any meal.

Looking for more inspiration? These fall salad ideas are full of seasonal goodness and crunch.

And if you’re craving something sweet but still wholesome, check out this healthy pumpkin pie recipe that’s naturally sweetened and made with whole grains.

Don’t forget to explore our healthy BBQ sauce for a smoky twist on your veggie sides.