25 Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Looking for a way to keep your Thanksgiving menu delicious but a little lighter this year? Our collection of 25 healthy Thanksgiving side dishes has you covered with everything from veggie-packed casseroles to lightened-up classics that taste every bit as good as the originals.

I love keeping our holiday spread balanced. Sure, we'll still have the turkey, gravy, and maybe a slice of pie, but adding a few lighter sides means I can enjoy all the flavors without feeling weighed down. This roundup is a mix of my own tried-and-true recipes from Whole Lotta Yum, along with highly rated recipes from other talented food bloggers.

When I first started tweaking our holiday menu, I was worried the lighter versions wouldn't feel festive enough. But honestly? Fresh, colorful sides like roasted veggies, quinoa stuffing, or a big seasonal salad often end up being the first dishes to disappear. They balance out the richness of the meal and bring so much flavor. Plus, most of these recipes can be made ahead, which means less stress on Thanksgiving Day.

Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Here's a mix of lighter, gluten-free, low-carb, and veggie-forward sides to round out your holiday table:

FAQs about Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

What are the healthiest side dishes for Thanksgiving?

Vegetable-based sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or butternut squash are some of the healthiest options. They're naturally packed with nutrients and fiber while still being full of flavor.

Can I make Thanksgiving side dishes ahead of time?

Yes! Many healthy sides like salads, roasted veggies, and casseroles can be prepped a day or two in advance. Just reheat before serving, or serve certain salads cold.

How do you lighten up traditional Thanksgiving recipes?

You can swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, use cauliflower instead of potatoes, or sweeten recipes with honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar. Small swaps make a big difference without losing flavor.

What can I serve instead of stuffing?

Quinoa stuffing, cauliflower rice pilaf, or wild rice salad are all great lighter alternatives to traditional bread stuffing. They're still hearty and full of flavor but easier on carbs and calories.