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    Home / Roundups

    31 Holiday Veggie Sides That Are More Than Just A Side Dish

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Dec 3, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Holiday veggie sides don’t have to play second fiddle at your dinner table—they can be the showstoppers everyone remembers. These dishes bring bold flavors, vibrant colors, and plenty of seasonal flair to your holiday spread. Perfect for impressing guests or shaking up traditional menus, they offer something exciting for everyone at the table. From simple to sophisticated, they prove vegetables can be just as crave-worthy as anything else on the menu. Ready to make your holiday feast truly unforgettable?

    A bowl of carrot salad with sesame seeds and mint leaves, garnished with a lemon wedge, and two pieces of bread nearby.
    Photo credit: Chef's Pencil.

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    Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

    Roasted zucchini slices with melted cheese and herbs sit enticingly on a white plate, as a fork elegantly holds one piece.
    Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    A quick and flavorful side dish, this recipe transforms zucchini into crispy, cheesy bites with minimal effort. It's an easy way to replicate restaurant-style roasted vegetables without needing special equipment. The combination of Parmesan and seasoning makes it a crowd-pleasing side dish at holiday dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

    Braised Brussels Sprouts

    A plate of cooked Brussels sprouts in sauce with lemon slices on the side. A fork holds one sprout above the plate.
    Braised Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Braised Brussels Sprouts bring rich, caramelized flavors to your holiday veggie sides. This dish is the perfect balance of crisp and tender, offering a gourmet touch without any fuss. With no sogginess in sight, it's an easy yet elegant option to add to your festive spread.
    Get the Recipe: Braised Brussels Sprouts

    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background.
    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer are the perfect mix of sweet and savory for your holiday veggie sides. Their crispy edges and caramelized glaze bring a touch of elegance that complements any holiday meal. Fast, flavorful, and perfect for adding something extra to your table.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Green Bean Casserole

    A ramekin of green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions, served on a wooden table.
    Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate holiday veggie side that everyone loves. Creamy and crispy, this dish keeps your holiday traditions alive while offering that comfort food vibe. It's a staple that’s sure to make your table feel extra special.
    Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Air-fried brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese on a white plate.
    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are a game-changer for Christmas veggie sides. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sprouts are impossible to resist—even for the skeptics. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’ll become a new holiday favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

    Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

    Close-up of a spoonful of sweet potato casserole with a topping of toasted pecans and marshmallows.
    Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an essential pick for your holiday veggie sides. The creamy texture and nostalgic flavors will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Simple, comforting, and holiday-ready.
    Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

    Green Beans with Garlic Butter

    A plate of green beans tossed with herbs and pine nuts.
    Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Green Beans with Garlic Butter are the ultimate holiday veggie sides to brighten your plate. Buttery, garlicky, and full of crunch, they bring a pop of flavor to any meal. These beans are as simple as they are delicious—no one will leave the table without having a few extra servings.
    Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.
    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese bring all the comfort of mashed potatoes with a crispy twist, making them a perfect pick for holiday veggie sides. With cheesy goodness and a satisfying crunch, they will be the star of your Christmas dinner. Quick to prepare and sure to impress!
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    Air Fryer Butternut Squash

    A bowl of roasted sweet potato cubes garnished with herbs, placed on a white surface. A red and white checkered cloth is partially visible in the background.
    Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air Fryer Butternut Squash adds a touch of sweetness and savory flavor to your holiday veggie sides. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, this dish is full of holiday cheer and easy to prepare in the air fryer. It’s the perfect side to pair with any festive main dish.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Butternut Squash

    Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

    Asparagus spears are topped with grated cheese on a white platter, surrounded by lemon slices. White serving tongs are holding some of the asparagus.
    Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan is a cheesy, crispy dish that complements any holiday veggie sides lineup. The fresh asparagus combined with parmesan creates a flavor-packed bite that’s sure to become a new favorite at your holiday table. A simple yet elegant side that’s sure to impress.
    Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

    Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

    A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with a sprig of parsley. Red potatoes and a grater are in the background on a beige cloth.
    Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes bring a creamy, garlicky punch to your holiday veggie sides. These potatoes are perfect for creating a warm, comforting atmosphere at your gathering. With their smooth texture and savory flavor, they pair perfectly with just about any holiday dish.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

    A baking dish containing four twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and diced ham, garnished with herbs.
    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes are packed with everything you love about holiday comfort food. The cheesy, creamy filling and crispy skins make them an irresistible side for your holiday veggie sides. This dish is all about indulgence, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

    Ratatouille Recipe

    Close-up of a wooden spoon holding ratatouille, featuring diced zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes, garnished with parsley.
    Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Ratatouille is a showstopper that brings all the flavors of the holiday season together. Packed with roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes, it’s a hearty and comforting side that works as both a side and a main dish. This vibrant veggie medley will steal the spotlight at your holiday feast.
    Get the Recipe: Ratatouille Recipe

    Sautéed Cabbage and Apples

    A pan containing a vibrant mix of sliced apples, fennel, pomegranate seeds, and herbs on a checkered cloth.
    Sautéed Cabbage and Apples. Photo credit: Sidewalk Shoes.

    Sautéed Cabbage and Apples offer a simple yet flavorful option for your holiday veggie sides. The combination of sweet apples and savory cabbage makes for a delicious side that’s light yet hearty. It’s the perfect dish to balance out your holiday meal without overwhelming the palate.
    Get the Recipe: Sautéed Cabbage and Apples

    Beetroot Tartare

    Two plates of beet tartare with arugula, walnuts, and flatbread, served on a white surface.
    Beetroot Tartare. Photo credit: The Fruity Jem.

    Beetroot Tartare is a fresh and vibrant addition to your holiday veggie sides. This no-cook dish is full of earthy flavors and makes for a unique and health-conscious choice at your table. With its gourmet appeal, it’s a fun, plant-based alternative to the usual holiday sides.
    Get the Recipe: Beetroot Tartare

    Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potato Cubes

    A bowl of roasted, diced sweet potatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, surrounded by raw sweet potato, cinnamon sticks, and a pink cloth on a light surface.
    Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Happy Honey Kitchen.

    Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potato Cubes are a warm, cozy addition to your holiday veggie sides. These sweet potatoes bring together the perfect mix of caramelized sweetness and fall spices, creating a comforting side dish that cooks quickly and tastes amazing. It’s a must-have for any holiday feast.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potato Cubes

    Roasted Tenderstem Broccoli with Parmesan Cheese and Pine Nuts

    Plate of roasted broccolini with grated cheese and pine nuts, garnished with parsley on a decorative plate and accompanied by a white serving spoon.
    Roasted Tenderstem Broccoli with Parmesan Cheese and Pine Nuts. Photo credit: The Cinnamon Jar.

    Roasted Tenderstem Broccoli with Parmesan Cheese and Pine Nuts adds a crunchy, nutty element to your holiday veggie sides. The simple roasting process brings out the natural flavors of the broccoli while the parmesan and pine nuts create a sophisticated touch. This dish is light yet flavorful and pairs well with almost any main course.
    Get the Recipe: Roasted Tenderstem Broccoli with Parmesan Cheese and Pine Nuts

    Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

    A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese casserole with a spoon. Part of the dish is missing, showing a serving taken out.
    Broccoli and Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Little Black Skillet.

    Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a holiday veggie side that brings cheesy, creamy comfort to the table. This simple dish is quick to assemble and loved by everyone, even the pickiest eaters. With buttery Ritz crackers on top, it’s a side that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

    Green Beans with Feta and Almonds

    Plates of salad with green beans, peas, almonds, mint, and crumbled cheese on a gray surface, accompanied by a small bowl of almonds.
    Green Beans with Feta and Almonds. Photo credit: Joyful Eating Nutrition.

    Green Beans with Feta and Almonds offer a burst of fresh, bright flavors that complement any holiday meal. The tangy feta, crunchy almonds, and sweet peas come together in a side dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. This dish is a must for anyone looking to add a bit of flair to their holiday veggie sides.
    Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Feta and Almonds

    Cauliflower Salad

    A large black platter holds a cauliflower salad with mixed greens and bacon bits, accompanied by gold utensils.
    Cauliflower Salad. Photo credit: Amanda's Cookin'.

    Cauliflower Salad is a surprising twist on the traditional veggie side dish. The roasted cauliflower pairs perfectly with crispy bacon and tangy red onion, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. It's an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing side that makes your holiday veggie sides anything but boring.
    Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Salad

    Cauliflower

    A plate of crispy roasted cauliflower florets with a garnish of green herbs, placed on a woven mat. A gold fork rests on the plate.
    Cauliflower. Photo credit: Low Carb Spark.

    Cauliflower in the air fryer turns this veggie into a crispy, flavorful side that everyone will love. With a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, it’s ready in less than 15 minutes, making it an ideal addition to your holiday veggie sides when you're short on time. It’s a quick and healthy option that never disappoints.
    Get the Recipe: Cauliflower

    Briam

    Baked vegetable casserole with eggplant, bell peppers, and feta cheese in a ceramic dish on a red checkered cloth.
    Briam. Photo credit: Chef's Pencil.

    Briam is a Mediterranean-inspired veggie side that’s both healthy and flavorful. Made with a variety of roasted vegetables, it’s a satisfying and easy-to-make dish that complements any holiday main course. This is a perfect pick for anyone looking to add a little something extra to their holiday veggie sides.
    Get the Recipe: Briam

    Creamy Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Parmesan

    A bowl of chopped Brussels sprouts salad with shredded cheese and nuts, alongside a silver spoon on a white surface.
    Creamy Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Parmesan. Photo credit: The Cinnamon Jar.

    Creamy Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Parmesan is a side dish that turns an often misunderstood vegetable into something irresistible. With crispy pancetta and a creamy parmesan sauce, these Brussels sprouts are transformed into a holiday side that even the skeptics will love. It’s a unique and flavorful addition to your holiday veggie sides.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Parmesan

    Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

    A casserole dish filled with baked mashed potatoes topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions.
    Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: On My Kids Plate.

    Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is the perfect side for your holiday table. Rich, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors, it’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together. Whether served with turkey or ham, it’s the ultimate addition to your holiday veggie sides lineup.
    Get the Recipe: Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

    Herb and Vegetable Stuffing

    A baked stuffing dish with vegetables in a rectangular pan, alongside a serving on a blue-patterned plate. Both are on a wooden table.
    Herb and Vegetable Stuffing. Photo credit: Stretch and Folds.

    Herb and Vegetable Stuffing is a must-have side dish for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal. With fresh herbs and perfectly seasoned vegetables, this stuffing adds a savory, aromatic touch to your table. It’s an essential side that pairs beautifully with any festive main course.
    Get the Recipe: Herb and Vegetable Stuffing

    Creamed Leeks

    A casserole dish with creamy leek and potato bake, garnished with chopped chives, on a festive tablecloth. A fork and a glass of white wine are beside it.
    Creamed Leeks. Photo credit: JackSlobodian.

    Creamed Leeks are the perfect creamy side dish for any holiday meal. With just five ingredients, this easy-to-make dish is a flavorful addition to your holiday veggie sides. Rich, creamy, and comforting, it’s a wonderful accompaniment to any roast or festive feast.
    Get the Recipe: Creamed Leeks

    Baked Cauliflower Gratin

    Baked dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping in a pan, alongside a plate with a serving and a fork on a blue surface.
    Baked Cauliflower Gratin. Photo credit: Coley Cooks.

    Baked Cauliflower Gratin is a cheesy, indulgent side that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. This French-inspired dish is easy to make in advance and will be a hit at any holiday meal. The melty cheese and tender cauliflower create the kind of rich, comforting side that everyone will love.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Cauliflower Gratin

    Crispy Red Potatoes

    Plate with grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, and asparagus spears.
    Crispy Red Potatoes. Photo credit: Prepare and Serve.

    Crispy Red Potatoes cooked in the air fryer are a simple, budget-friendly addition to your holiday veggie sides. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, these potatoes make the perfect accompaniment to almost any main dish. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Crispy Red Potatoes

    Sesame Carrot Salad

    A bowl of carrot salad with sesame seeds and mint leaves, garnished with a lemon wedge, and two pieces of bread nearby.
    Sesame Carrot Salad. Photo credit: Chef's Pencil.

    Sesame Carrot Salad is a light, fresh side that adds a burst of flavor to your holiday veggie sides. The crunchy carrots, paired with tangy lemon and fragrant sesame, offer a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday dishes. It’s a simple yet vibrant dish that’s sure to impress.
    Get the Recipe: Sesame Carrot Salad

    Smoky and Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

    A baked dish with a crumb topping in a white casserole dish, served on a plate beside it. A striped cloth, forks, and a small bowl of red spice are on the gray surface.
    Smoky and Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: A Grateful Meal.

    Smoky and Savory Sweet Potato Casserole is a twist on the traditional sweet potato dish that’s perfect for the holidays. With smoky, savory flavors and a creamy texture, this casserole will become a new holiday favorite. It’s the ideal side to balance out sweeter dishes at your holiday meal.
    Get the Recipe: Smoky and Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

    Carrots with Parmesan and Dill

    A plate of roasted carrots garnished with herbs on a white dish.
    Carrots with Parmesan and Dill. Photo credit: A Grateful Meal.

    Carrots with Parmesan and Dill are a simple yet flavorful side that will stand out on your holiday table. The caramelized carrots, combined with tangy parmesan and fresh dill, create a savory dish that complements any main course. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, they’re a perfect addition to your holiday veggie sides.
    Get the Recipe: Carrots with Parmesan and Dill

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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