7 Scrumptious and Cozy Winter Side Dish Ideas
Elevate your vegetable intake and take your meal game to the next level with these outstanding side dishes. Winter's chill is the perfect time to indulge in these hearty, flavor-packed options. Whether you're hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or just craving a mouth-watering meal at home, these seven recipes are guaranteed to impress.
Remember, some of these recipes have a longer cook time; however, the wait will be worth it as they offer a stunning blend of flavors and nutrients.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Dried Cranberries and Dijon Vinaigrette
This classic combination of vegetables bursts with seasonal warmth and offers 40 minutes of culinary joy. Don't shy away from making a generous batch, as their delicious taste and nutrient-packed formula make them a hit at any gathering.
To create this delectable side, follow these simple steps:
- Prepare your ingredients:
- 3 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup Dijon vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Preheat your oven at 400°F (200°C)
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Combine Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, dried cranberries, olive oil, Dijon vinaigrette, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables onto the baking sheet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Roast the vegetables for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they develop a delightful golden brown appearance and achieve a tender texture.
- Maple Tahini Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Let the flavors of maple syrup and tangy tahini bring out the sweetness in these perfectly grilled sweet potato wedges. Sprinkle lemon juice and fresh cilantro on top for an even more intriguing taste. Should you follow a vegan or paleo diet, this dish is a tasty match for you.
Ingredients:- 2 medium sweet potatoes- 1/4 cup maple syrup- 2 tbsp tahini- Olive oil for brushing- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
This filling side dish is guaranteed to become a main event when quinoa, pepitas, and cranberries team up with sweet acorn squash. Make it a special occasion by serving this dish, which boasts a slightly longer cook time than others.
To create this delicious side dish, collate the following ingredients:- 1 whole acorn squash- 1 cup cooked quinoa- 1/2 cup pepitas- 1/2 cup dried cranberries- 1/2 cup onion, chopped- 2 cloves garlic, minced- 1 cup vegetable broth or water- 1 tsp ground cinnamon- 1/2 tsp salt- 2 tbsp maple syrup- 1 tbsp olive oil- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Roasted Carrots with Green Tahini Sauce and Pomegranate
Take your love for tahini to new heights with this festive carrot dish, which features cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a delightful tang and an artistic final presentation.
Enjoy the following ingredients for a memorable dish:- 1.5 lb carrots, sliced- 3 tbsp olive oil- Salt and pepper, to taste- 1/2 cup tahini- 3/4 cup water- 1/4 cup cilantro or parsley, chopped- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- Kale and Wild Rice Casserole
Give an upgrade to the ever-popular green bean casserole with the addition of vibrant kale, caramelized mushrooms, and Gruyère cheese. Satisfy your cravings for indulgence while still savoring the benefits of a nutritious seasonal delight.
Ingredients:- 2 cups uncooked wild rice- 1.5 lb fresh green beans, trimmed- 6 oz baby kale- 6 oz shiitake or button mushrooms, sliced- 2 cups vegetable broth- 4 tbsp olive oil- 1 large yellow onion, chopped- 2 garlic cloves, minced- 2 tbsp flour- 1 can (15 oz) unsweetened coconut milk- 1 tbsp soy sauce- 2 tsp Dijon mustard- Salt and pepper, to taste- 1.5 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- Winter Rainbow Quinoa Salad
Tired of dull winter salads? Let the harmonious blend of beets, pomegranate seeds, quinoa, and spinach invigorate your days and never leave you feeling blue. This salad is a perfect option for packing in a fun and healthy weekday lunch.
Combine the following ingredients for a delightful salad:- 2 cups cooked quinoa- 2 cups cooked baby spinach- 1 cup cooked beets, cubed- 1 cup pomegranate seeds- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)- 1/4 cup olive oil- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar- 1 tbsp maple syrup- 1 tbsp mustard- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Mushroom Rice Pilaf
Silence your mushroom lovers' cravings with this satisfying side, which offers a delightful combination of mushrooms and rice. Boost the nutritional value by swapping brown rice for white.
Gather the following ingredients for a delightful side dish:- 2 tbsp olive oil- 1 lb sliced mushrooms (baby Bella, cremini, and/or oyster)- 1 onion, finely chopped- 1 cup rice (brown or white rice)- 2-3 cups vegetable broth- 1 tsp salt- Ground black pepper, to taste- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley- 1 lemon, sliced and seeds removed (optional)
Prepare these mouthwatering side dishes to add depth and numerous flavor profiles to your meals, making your winter evenings a delightful culinary adventure.
- The Mushroom Rice Pilaf, made with brown or white rice, is another healthy option that mushroom lovers will appreciate.
- If you're looking for a vegetarian side dish, consider the Stuffed Acorn Squash with quinoa, pepitas, cranberries, and cinnamon.
- To add some nutritious greens to your meal, consider the Kale and Wild Rice Casserole, which includes caramelized mushrooms, green beans, and Gruyère cheese.
- When you're craving a satisfying and tasty side dish, Maple Tahini Grilled Sweet Potatoes with lemon juice and cilantro are a great option.
- Winter's Vegetable Quinoa Salad is a refreshing alternative to traditional winter side dishes, with beets, pomegranate seeds, and spinach.
- Don't forget about Roasted Carrots with Green Tahini Sauce and Pomegranate seeds, which is a hearty and flavorful side dish that's perfect for winter gatherings. Whether you're hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or just craving a mouth-watering meal at home, these healthy and flavorful side dishes are a great addition to your meal game.
