I usually have my main entrees planned weeks before a holiday gathering, but when it comes to side dishes I tend to procrastinate. This year I decided to get organized and put together a reliable list of favorite sides and appetizers that consistently earn a spot on my holiday table.
To start, Roasted Garlic is a simple, fragrant crowd-pleaser. I serve 10–15 bulbs on the table with plenty of sliced crusty baguette. Guests smear the sweet, mellow roasted cloves on bread in place of butter or oil. It’s easy, healthier, and the leftovers stored in olive oil keep well to flavor sauces and marinades.
Colorful vegetables instantly brighten a spread. Oven Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Purple Cauliflower is crispy, tender, and visually striking—kids and adults alike love it.
For a fresh take on mashed potatoes, try Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes with Serrano Ham and Gruyere. They add texture and a savory twist, and they’re perfect for using leftover mashed potatoes after Thanksgiving morning.
Roasting gives Brussels sprouts a delicious makeover. Garlic and Chili Pepper Brussels Sprouts are easy to prepare with only a few ingredients and deliver big flavor.
Rosemary Roasted Mushrooms fill the house with an irresistible aroma and make a hearty, savory addition to any holiday menu.
Golden Potatoes with Garlic Chive Butter are a guaranteed hit—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and likely to disappear quickly. Make extras if you can.
Lemony Parmesan Asparagus is quick, bright, and pairs beautifully with seafood and poultry.
Tuscan Mussels and Shrimp are elegant, flavorful, and work well as an appetizer or a second course. Be sure to serve plenty of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious broth and bowls for shells.
Couscous doesn’t show up as often as it should at holiday meals. A lemon-infused Israeli couscous brings bright, fragrant flavors that guests will request again.
Classic Bruschetta is always welcome—fresh, simple, and reliable as an appetizer or light starter.
Savory Stuffed Mushrooms are rich and satisfying, and they freeze well—perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Pommes Dauphinoise is an epic, classic potato dish—rich, comforting, freezer-friendly, and worth making if you want one standout potato side.
Zucchini Coins are a simple, attractive side or appetizer—light and easy to prepare.
One Pan Lemony Shrooms are buttery and lemony; serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Greek Fava Beans are hearty, flavorful, and make a great vegetarian main or a satisfying side dish for the table.
That’s the list—simple, delicious options to round out your holiday menu. I hope this helps streamline your planning and inspires a few new dishes for your next celebration.