Delicious Thanksgiving Salad Pairings with Traditional Side Dishes

Thanksgiving is one of the most awaited holidays of the year. It’s a time when family and friends come together to enjoy good food and each other’s company. A traditional Thanksgiving meal is usually all about the turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, and stuffing, but what about salad? Adding a salad to your Thanksgiving meal is not only a nutritious choice but also gives your meal a colorful and refreshing twist. In this blog post, we will explore salad pairings that complement traditional side dishes and add a special touch to your Thanksgiving feast.

Cranberry and Walnut Salad with Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple, and a cranberry and walnut salad is the perfect complement to this dish. The sweet and tangy flavors of dried cranberries pair perfectly with the crunchy texture of walnuts. Add some arugula and a balsamic dressing for an extra burst of flavor.

Green Bean Salad with Stuffing

Stuffing is a Thanksgiving favorite, but it can be heavy and rich. A light and fresh green bean salad can bring balance to the meal. Blanch some green beans and toss them with sliced red onions, minced garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Add a drizzle of olive oil and some lemon juice for some brightness.

Sweet Potato Salad with Brussels Sprouts

Sweet potato casserole is a must-have on any Thanksgiving table. Pairing it with a sweet potato salad is a great alternative. Toss roasted sweet potatoes with sliced Brussels sprouts, garlic, and a honey mustard dressing. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the crunchiness of the Brussels sprouts create a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Apple and Pecan Salad with Gravy

Savory gravy is a staple of any Thanksgiving dinner, but it can be overpowering. Pairing it with a light and fresh apple and pecan salad can balance the flavors. To make the salad, mix sliced apples, chopped pecans, baby spinach, and a honey Dijon dressing. The crunch of the pecans and the sweetness of the apples make a great pair with the savory gravy.

Kale Salad with Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic side dish that goes perfectly well with the goodness of kale. Prepare a kale salad by massaging kale leaves with some olive oil and lemon juice. Add some minced garlic, avocado, and cherry tomatoes. Serve the salad with a slice of cornbread, and you have a delicious and healthy side dish that everyone will love.

Conclusion

This Thanksgiving, take your meal to the next level by including some refreshing and wholesome salad pairings. These salads are packed with flavors, textures, and nutrients that complement traditional side dishes and add some excitement to the meal. Experiment with these pairings, and you’re sure to impress your guests with a truly memorable feast. Happy Thanksgiving!