Whether you’re prepping a dish for a family gathering or getting ready for Friendsgiving, I challenge you to throw out the rule book. Over the years, I’ve happily enjoyed crab legs, mini molten chocolate cakes, Pekin duck, and even birthday cake (it wasn’t even anyone’s birthday!) So maybe there’s one rule: Whatever you bring, it’s got to be delicious. These spotlight-worthy side dishes are sure to stand out at your next holiday gathering.
Roasted Carrots with Chana Masala
Carrots are absolutely the unsung hero of fall; they’re extremely versatile, sweet, and vibrant. Here, roasted carrots are topped with fragrant chana masala, a classic Indian chickpea and tomato curry.
Broccolini and Fontina Tart
For all of you that loved cheese on your broccoli as a kid, this one’s for you. With creamy fontina custard and crispy-edged puff pastry, this broccolini dish almost feels like a dessert.
Baked Potato Stacks
That’s one elegant potato (there’s something I’d never thought I’d say). But I mean, come on, when’s the last time you saw a potato look this good? If you’ve had your fill of mashed potatoes for the season, these stacks are a fun alternative.
Miso Brussels Sprouts Tarte Tatin
I tried this dish for the first time last year, and I’ve never looked at Brussels sprouts the same. The miso-maple combo alone is reason enough to try this recipe, but that puff pastry really takes everything over the edge. This is my go-to Friendsgiving recipe – it’s pure umami paradise.
Roasted Romanesco with Lemon, Bacon, and Hazelnuts
Ah Romanesco, cauliflower’s lesser known but ultra-cool, fractal cousin. In this recipe, saltiness of the bacon and acidity of the lemon complements Romanesco’s slightly nutty flavor. Plus, this recipe is really easy to scale up, which makes it great for larger family gatherings.