Thanksgiving Side Dish Alternatives

Honey Glazed Squash and Apples

  • 2 (8 oz)containers fresh diced butternut squash
  • 3 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup praline pecans
  • 2 Fuji apples (or pears), peeled and cubed
  • 1/3 cup honey

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Combine squash, oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon until evenly coated. Spread mixture in single layer on baking sheet; bake 10 minutes. Chop pecans. Peel apples and cut into 1/2-inch cubes; using same bowl, toss apples and pecans. Remove pan from oven; stir squash. Sprinkle apple mixture over squash; bake 15 more minutes or until softened. Transfer mixture to serving platter; drizzle with honey. Serve.

 

Cranberry Sauce with Maple Syrup

  • 12 oz whole fresh cranberries (or 1 package)
  • 3/4 cup real Vermont maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed or store bought
  • 1 cinnamon stick

Bake the cranberries and place into a large sieve. Pick out any berries that look damaged (black spots, mushy, really white). Wash and drain. Then, pour the cranberries into a medium-large pot. Add the maple syrup, water, and orange juice. Stir to combine. Place the cinnamon stick in the center. Heat the berries on medium-high heat, until the mixture reaches a boil. Then, lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until syrupy and richly red. You will hear the cranberries "pop" as they cook, do not be alarmed. After 10-12 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Store in a covered container in the fridge. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed. 

 

Lemon and Dill Mashed Potatoes

  • 5 potatoes (4 cups approx.), peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp. fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Place potatoes into a pot and cover with enough water. Bring the water to a boil and cook for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Drain and return potatoes to pot. Mash the potatoes until you reach a desired consistency. Add the cheese, lemon juice, and dill. Stir to evenly combine and serve.